A case of HIV-associated facial lipoatrophy treated with 1000-cs liquid injectable silicone.

BACKGROUND

Patients infected with the HIV may experience HIV-associated lipodystrophy, a symptom of which is facial lipoatrophy, a dramatic loss of subcutaneous facial tissue. This visible manifestation of HIV infection causes significant psychosocial pain for patients and has been associated with impaired compliance with medical regimens.

OBJECTIVE

To improve the appearance of facial lipoatrophy in a safe, long-lasting, expeditious, and relatively economical manner.

METHODS

An HIV-associated lipodystrophy patient with facial lipoatrophy underwent multiple sessions of soft-tissue augmentation therapy with liquid injectable silicone (LIS) using the microdroplet serial puncture technique.

RESULTS

Administration of LIS by the microdroplet serial puncture technique produced satisfactory improvement of areas of facial atrophy. The treatment time is limited, the patient discomfort and morbidity are minimal, and results are long lasting. Patients report significant satisfaction with treatment.

CONCLUSION

LIS administered by the microdroplet serial puncture technique is a safe and effective method for treating HIV-associated facial lipoatrophy and compares favorably with other methods of tissue augmentation.