A Randomized, Evaluator-Blinded, Controlled Study of the Effectiveness and Safety of Small Gel Particle Hyaluronic Acid for Lip Augmentation

Abstract

OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness and safety of small gel particle hyaluronic acid (SGP-HA) for lip augmentation. METHODS Adults (n = 180; aged 18–65) scoring 1 (very thin) to 2 (thin) on the 5-point validated Medicis Lip Fullness Scale (MLFS) for the upper or lower lip were randomized (3:1) to SGP-HA (≤1.5 mL/lip) or no treatment. Co-primary effectiveness end points were blinded-evaluator MLFS score for upper or lower lip at week 8. Secondary end points (MLFS score, independent photographic review, Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale [GAIS], safety assessments) were measured throughout the study. RESULTS Statistically significantly more MLFS responders (≥1 grades of MLFS improvement at week 8) received SGP-HA (93% combined upper and lower lip responders [95% upper lip; 94% lower lip]) than no treatment (29% combined; p < .001). SGP-HA improved self-assessed combined lip GAIS (97% week 8; 74% week 24) significantly more than no treatment (0% throughout; p < .001). The SGP-HA group reported anticipated swelling (58%) and bruising (44%), 88% mild or 11% moderate severity, without unanticipated device adverse events. CONCLUSIONS SGP-HA is highly effective and well tolerated for lip augmentation. Statistically significant improvement was evident based on the MLFS at 8 weeks, with visible results reported in the majority of participants 6 months after treatment.