Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures and Aesthetic Medicine Flashcards

Which dermal filler is FDA-approved specifically for the correction of HIV-associated facial lipoatrophy in addition to cosmetic use?

Answer: Sculptra Aesthetic

Sculptra Aesthetic (PLLA) holds dual FDA approval for both HIV-related facial lipoatrophy and cosmetic correction of shallow to deep nasolabial fold contour deficiencies.

When performing botulinum toxin injections for masseter hypertrophy to achieve facial slimming, which complication must be specifically counseled?

Answer: Temporary weakness of zygomaticus major causing smile asymmetry

Toxin diffusion from the masseter into the adjacent zygomaticus major can cause temporary asymmetric smile weakness; this risk is reduced by injecting inferiorly into the muscle belly.

What is the primary wavelength range of light used in photodynamic therapy (PDT) for actinic keratoses following aminolevulinic acid (ALA) application?

Answer: 400–420 nm (blue light / Soret band)

ALA-PDT most commonly uses blue light at ~417 nm, which corresponds to the Soret absorption band of protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) to activate the photosensitizer and destroy abnormal cells.

A patient develops a tender, indurated nodule 8 months after hyaluronic acid filler injection. The most likely etiology is:

Answer: Biofilm-associated delayed inflammatory reaction

Delayed inflammatory nodules appearing months after HA filler are most commonly caused by biofilm formation, often triggered by a remote infection, and are treated with antibiotics plus hyaluronidase.

Which energy-based device uses radiofrequency energy delivered through microneedles to remodel dermal collagen without significant epidermal damage?

Answer: Morpheus8 (fractional RF microneedling)

Fractional radiofrequency microneedling devices like Morpheus8 deliver RF energy directly into the dermis via insulated needles, bypassing the epidermis to remodel collagen and treat laxity.

Which of the following best characterizes the G-prime (G') of a hyaluronic acid filler?

Answer: The elastic modulus reflecting resistance to deformation

G-prime is the storage (elastic) modulus of a filler, measuring its resistance to deformation; high G-prime fillers maintain shape under pressure, making them suitable for structural augmentation.

Which facial artery branch poses the highest risk of vision loss if inadvertently injected with filler in the glabellar region?

Answer: Supratrochlear artery

The supratrochlear artery communicates directly with the ophthalmic artery via the dorsal nasal and supraorbital systems; retrograde filler embolism can reach the central retinal artery causing blindness.