As biostimulators continue to gain attention for their regenerative properties, a 2021 review highlighted their impressive ability to boost collagen production, improve tissue quality, and support skin rejuvenation through targeted molecular pathways. This makes biostimulators a promising option for aesthetic treatments, particularly when addressing age-related volume loss and skin laxity.
One such biostimulator, Lanluma, harnesses the power of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) to offer gradual volumizing and collagen-boosting effects. However, like any injectable treatment, Lanluma comes with its own set of potential side effects. While most are mild and temporary, some may require clinical attention. Understanding the full spectrum of potential side effects is crucial for ensuring safe and effective use.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Lanluma side effects, from common post-injection reactions to rarer complications, and provide helpful tips for both clinicians and patients to navigate these risks.
Key Takeaways
- Common side effects of Lanluma include swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness, and small lumps.
- These are typically temporary and resolve within a few days to weeks with proper aftercare, including following the 5-5-5 massage rule.
- Rare complications, although uncommon, can include granulomas, infections, vascular issues, and tissue asymmetry.
- Patient-specific factors such as medical conditions, medications, skin quality, and lifestyle habits can influence the safety and effectiveness of Lanluma treatment. Clinicians must assess these factors carefully before proceeding.
- Risk mitigation strategies include using aseptic technique, providing post-treatment instructions, and ensuring proper dosing and injection depth.
- Regular follow-up care and early patient education on side effects and warning signs are essential for ensuring the best outcomes and patient satisfaction.
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Common Lanluma Side Effects After Injection
Lanluma, a poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) biostimulator, is widely known for its gradual and natural collagen-stimulating effects. While generally well-tolerated, like any injectable treatment, it can result in some mild side effects. These are typically part of the body’s natural response to the material, and most resolve on their own within a few days or weeks.
Common Lanluma side effects include:
- Swelling and Redness: This is the most frequent reaction, usually appearing within the first 24–48 hours after the injection. It’s a sign that the body is responding to the treatment and typically subsides within a few days.
- Bruising: Minor bruising is common, especially in areas where blood vessels are near the surface of the skin. It tends to fade within a few days without any special treatment.
- Tenderness or Discomfort: Some soreness or a mild aching sensation may occur, similar to the feeling after a light bruise or muscle strain. This generally resolves within a week.
- Small Lumps or Nodules: These may appear as soft lumps right after treatment but usually disappear on their own or with gentle massage.
Most of these reactions are part of the healing process and are rarely severe. To alleviate discomfort, cold compresses and following the post-treatment care instructions provided by clinicians can provide significant relief. It’s also essential to follow the 5-5-5 massage rule from the IFU (Instructions for Use) to ensure proper collagen distribution and minimize the formation of lumps.
Rare and Serious Lanluma Adverse Events
Though Lanluma is considered a safe treatment, some rare, more serious complications may occur, particularly if the injections aren’t performed correctly or if the treatment is done off-label. Recognizing these issues early and seeking professional management is critical.
- Granulomas: These are firm, inflammatory nodules that can form months after treatment due to the body’s immune response to PLLA. While these are uncommon, they require prompt attention to avoid complications.
- Infections: Rare but serious, infections may occur if proper aseptic techniques are not followed during injection or if post-treatment hygiene is inadequate. If an infection does occur, antibiotics or drainage may be required.
- Delayed Nodules: Sometimes, harder, more irregular nodules may develop weeks or months after the treatment. These will often require medical evaluation to ensure they do not pose long-term issues.
- Tissue Asymmetry: If Lanluma is unevenly distributed, it could lead to visible irregularities in the treated area. These may require additional treatments or corrective procedures to smooth out.
- Vascular Complications: Although vascular complications are theoretically possible if injections occur too close to blood vessels, there have been no reports of such issues in post-market surveillance.
Patient Risk Factors That May Influence Lanluma Safety
Not all patients respond the same way to Lanluma. Factors such as medical history, medications, and lifestyle choices can influence the risk of developing side effects. When discussing comparisons like Lanluma vs Sculptra, these patient-specific variables play a crucial role in deciding the most suitable treatment.
- Medical Conditions: Patients with autoimmune disorders or chronic inflammatory conditions may be more sensitive to the effects of PLLA and may have a higher chance of complications like granulomas.
- Medications: Blood thinners, corticosteroids, or other immune-modulating drugs can affect the body’s healing process and increase the risk of bruising, nodules, or other reactions.
- Lifestyle Habits: Factors like smoking, alcohol consumption, and poor nutrition can slow recovery and increase the likelihood of side effects, making it important for clinicians to thoroughly evaluate these habits before proceeding.
- Skin Quality: Patients with thin or delicate skin may experience more noticeable bruising, swelling, or even tissue asymmetry due to the reduced ability of their skin to recover and adapt after the injections.
- Improper Aftercare: Following the proper aftercare instructions is vital for minimizing complications. Not adhering to the 5-5-5 massage rule or avoiding the necessary post-treatment care could contribute to the formation of lumps or uneven results.
Prevention and Management of Lanluma Complications
As with any injectable treatment, proactive care is the key to minimizing Lanluma side effects. Clinicians should implement evidence-based strategies to reduce risks and manage complications effectively. Here are some key strategies:
Prevention Strategies
- Comprehensive Screening: Clinicians must assess patients’ medical histories, lifestyle habits, and any contraindications to PLLA before treatment.
- Aseptic Technique: Using sterile, single-use equipment and ensuring proper disinfection reduces the risk of infection and contamination.
- Precise Injection Strategy: Clinicians should use the correct volume and injection depth for each treatment area, avoiding deeper layers where there is a higher risk of complications.
- Post-Treatment Instructions: Clear aftercare instructions, including the 5-5-5 massage rule, can help ensure even collagen distribution and reduce the formation of nodules or asymmetry.
- Patient Education: Thorough patient education about expected side effects and the warning signs of complications (such as persistent swelling or hard lumps) ensures that patients are informed and can act quickly if issues arise.
Management Approaches
- Routine Follow-Up Assessments: Regular check-ins help clinicians monitor the healing process, identify early concerns, and provide timely interventions if necessary.
- Massage and Conservative Care: For minor side effects like soft lumps, gentle massage or conservative treatments can help resolve the issue.
- Antibiotic Therapy: If an infection is suspected, prompt treatment with antibiotics can prevent further complications.
- Steroid Injections: For inflammatory reactions or granulomas, corticosteroid injections can reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Surgical Excision: In rare cases, persistent or severe granulomatous complications may require surgical removal.
With the right risk mitigation strategies, Lanluma can provide effective and natural-looking results with minimal complications. Understanding the full range of potential side effects and staying proactive with both prevention and management ensures the best outcomes for patients.
Conclusion
Lanluma offers a promising approach to collagen stimulation and volume restoration, but like any injectable, it carries a spectrum of potential side effects. Most reactions, such as swelling or bruising, are mild and temporary. However, serious complications like granulomas or vascular issues can occur in rare instances.
By staying informed, educating patients, and adhering to the best practices for injection technique and post-treatment care, clinicians can significantly reduce the risks associated with Lanluma. For optimal results and safety, it’s essential that patients follow aftercare instructions, particularly the 5-5-5 massage rule, to ensure smooth, even recovery.
FAQs
1. What are the most common Lanluma side effects?
Mild swelling, redness, bruising, tenderness, and temporary nodules are the most frequently reported effects.
2. How long do Lanluma side effects last?
Most mild side effects resolve within a few days to weeks, while rare nodules may take longer.
3. Are Lanluma complications permanent?
Severe complications like granulomas are rare and usually treatable with medical intervention.
4. Who is at higher risk for Lanluma side effects?
Patients with autoimmune conditions, blood thinners, or poor aftercare compliance face higher risks.
5. Can Lanluma cause granulomas?
Yes, though rare, granulomas can develop as a delayed immune response to PLLA particles.
6. How can I reduce the risk of bruising after Lanluma?
Avoid blood-thinning medications, follow aftercare, and use cold compresses post-injection.
7. Is Lanluma safe for all patients?
Lanluma is generally safe, but a thorough medical evaluation is essential to identify potential risks.
References
Baltazar M, Correia S, Guinan KJ, Sujeeth N, Bragança R, Gonçalves B. Recent advances in the molecular effects of biostimulants in plants: An overview. Biomolecules. 2021;11(8):1096. doi:10.3390/biom11081096
Amselem M, Fatsea D, Forte R, Hasenöhrl C, Haus A, Salaabian A. Safety and effectiveness results of an innovative injectable poly‐L‐lactic acid‐based collagen stimulator (Lanluma®)—Clinical outcomes at 9 months in a post‐market study. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology. Published online September 4, 2024. doi:10.1111/jocd.16527
