Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) and Aesthetic Outcomes: A Systematic Review of Controlled Clinical Trials

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to systematically review and summarize the available controlled clinical trials on the effectiveness of calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) in terms of aesthetic outcomes, skin-aging-related outcomes, and patient/investigator satisfaction. Methods: We included controlled clinical trials involving at least 10 human adults that examined the effects of CaHA on aesthetic and skin-aging-related outcomes and satisfaction. Due to the high heterogeneity among the included studies, only a qualitative analysis is provided. Results: Out of 2935 relevant references, 13 studies were included, of which 8 studies focused on facial areas and 5 on dorsum of hand. CaHA injection was associated with enhancements in global aesthetic improvement scale, whether applied in facial regions or on the dorsum of hands. The findings suggested high patients' satisfaction following CaHA when applied to facial areas. Studies highlighted improvements in hand grading scales and a reduction in facial wrinkles. Conclusions: Current evidence suggests that CaHA injections improve aesthetic results, including facial areas, such as nasolabial folds and jawline, and hands, with high levels of satisfaction. Considering the methodological limitations and heterogeneous comparisons groups, additional controlled clinical trials would contribute to a better understanding of the applications and advantages offered by CaHA.

Keywords: aesthetic improvement; calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA); effectiveness; systematic review.

Figure 1

Flowchart of identification, screening, eligibility, inclusion, and exclusion of retrieved studies.