Hyaluronic acid fillers and botulinum toxin type A: Cross-Sectional analysis for optimizing outcomes based on sex and age.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze treatment patterns, dosing variations, and reapplication rates of botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) and hyaluronic acid injections, with a focus on sex- and age-related differences in outcomes.

METHODS

A prospective analysis was conducted on 164 patients treated with BoNT-A and/or hyaluronic acid injections. Patients were categorized by sex and age (<50 years or ≥50 years). Data on dosage, treatment regions, and reapplications were collected and analyzed for statistical significance.

RESULTS

The study highlighted distinct differences in the application of BoNT-A and hyaluronic acid based on sex and age. For botulinum toxin, the average dose per patient was 55.3 ± 12.7 units. Men received higher doses in the procerus (7.7 ± 2.6 vs.5.7 ± 2.2 units, p = 0.02) and nasal muscles (6.5 ± 2.7 vs.5.3 ± 1.7 units, p = 0.02). Significant age-related differences were observed in the orbicularis oculi (11.0 ± 4.1 vs.14.3 ± 5.4 units, p = 0.02) and corrugator muscles (10.7 ± 3.0 vs.10.5 ± 2.2 units, p = 0.02), with patients ≥50 years requiring higher reapplication doses (p = 0.0001). For hyaluronic acid, men required greater volumes in the mandible (p = 0.0001), reflecting differences in anatomical preferences, whereas women received larger volumes in the lips (p = 0.01), chin (p = 0.02), pre-jowls (p = 0.02), and under-eye regions (p = 0.003), which align with more delicate and aesthetic enhancements.

CONCLUSION

Significant sex- and age-based differences were observed in the application of BoNT-A and hyaluronic acid. Men required higher doses for structural enhancement, while women showed a preference for treatments in aesthetic regions. Patients ≥50 years required higher doses and reapplications, reflecting age-related anatomical changes. These findings highlight the importance of individualized treatment strategies for optimizing outcomes in aesthetic procedures.