Dr. Antony Barbosa

Biocompatible polymers like polylactic acid (PLA) play a prominent role in biomedical applications due to their ability to stimulate collagen production via foreign body reactions (FBR). PLA is recognised for its synthesis from renewable, non-toxic sources and biodegradation into bioabsorbable lactic acid. This review explores the three main PLA isomers – poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), poly-D-lactic acid (PDLA), and meso poly-D, L-lactic acid (PDLLA) – highlighting their distinct physicochemical properties, such as pH, charge, hydrophilicity, particle size, shape, and surface texture, which are crucial in initiating subclinical inflammation and activating fibroblasts for collagen production. Specifically, PLLA demonstrates superior collagen-stimulating potential with minimal inflammation, while PDLA and PDLLA exhibit variable inflammatory responses and collagen regeneration capacities. By evaluating structure-property-activity relationships (SPAR) among PLA variants, this review provides insights into optimising PLA-based biomaterials for enhanced collagen stimulation, guiding their application in regenerative medicine and aesthetic procedures.

Obesity remains a complex global health issue, necessitating multifaceted treatment approaches. Injectable pharmacotherapies have emerged as effective strategies to manage obesity by targeting metabolic pathways that regulate appetite, energy expenditure, and fat distribution. This review explores the mechanisms, clinical efficacy, and safety profiles of key injectable agents, including GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists and lipolytic compounds. Additionally, it highlights the aesthetic challenges following significant weight loss, such as skin laxity, and discusses the role of biostimulators and non-invasive technologies in mitigating these effects. Despite the therapeutic promise of injectable agents, their widespread application is hindered by adverse effects, high costs, and accessibility issues. This paper underscores the need for integrative treatment models that combine pharmacological interventions with aesthetic and behavioral therapies to optimize patient outcomes. Future research should focus on refining personalized protocols and expanding the accessibility of these treatments to diverse populations.

Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) has become a popular treatment for body skin laxity, especially in female patients; however, research on its use in male patients remains limited, particularly in addressing changes in the gluteal region due to aging. This case report investigates the efficacy of PLLA in treating skin laxity in the gluteal area of three male patients aged 36, 41, and 50 years who were treated at the Antony Barbosa Institute between May 2023 and June 2024. The Male Gluteal Contour Method™: C-Tech Collagen Boost was employed using a C-shaped injection technique with an 18G × 70 mm cannula. Patients underwent four sessions of PLLA injections, reconstituted with bacteriostatic sterile water and lidocaine, at 4–6-week intervals. Improvements in the gluteal contour and skin laxity were noted in all patients, with increased collagen production contributing to enhanced muscle definition and firmness. Minimal side effects such as mild bruising, swelling, and tenderness were reported, and no nodules were observed. This study highlights the importance of tailored treatment plans that cater to the specific needs of middle-age and older men. The C-shaped injection technique allowed for an even distribution of the biostimulator while respecting male anatomy. PLLA is a promising nonsurgical solution for improving male gluteal contour and skin quality, although further research with larger groups is warranted to establish more definitive guidelines for its use in male gluteal augmentation.