Macrolane

Macrolane is a product that was used for body contouring and volume restoration. It is a gel composed of non-animal stabilized Hyaluronic Acid (NASHA), similar to the products used in facial aesthetic treatments. Macrolane was introduced for the aesthetic enhancement of body surfaces, including breast augmentation and shaping, as well as for correcting soft tissue defects and scars. However, its use in breast augmentation has been controversial and subject to regulatory scrutiny.

Composition and Mechanism

Macrolane is based on a hyaluronic acid gel. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance found in the body's connective tissues and skin, known for its capacity to absorb water and add volume. The NASHA technology stabilizes the hyaluronic acid, making it more durable and longer-lasting than the naturally occurring form. When injected, Macrolane works by adding volume to the treated area, providing an immediate aesthetic improvement.

Applications

The primary applications of Macrolane included:

• Breast Enhancement: For women seeking a moderate increase in breast size without undergoing surgical breast implants, Macrolane offered a non-surgical alternative.
• Body Contouring: It was used to enhance the shape and volume of other body areas, such as the calves, buttocks, and hands.
• Correction of Soft Tissue Defects: Macrolane could correct soft tissue deficits resulting from surgery, trauma, or congenital defects.

Controversies and Limitations

Despite its initial promise, the use of Macrolane, especially for breast augmentation, faced several challenges:

• Imaging Interference: Concerns were raised about Macrolane's interference with mammograms and breast cancer screening, making it difficult to distinguish between the gel and potential breast cancer signs.
• Complications: Some patients experienced complications such as infection, migration of the gel, and formation of hard nodules.
• Temporary Results: The effects of Macrolane were not permanent, typically lasting 12 to 24 months, requiring repeated treatments to maintain the desired outcome.

Due to these concerns, particularly the impact on breast cancer screening, the use of Macrolane for breast augmentation was discontinued in some countries. Healthcare professionals and patients were advised to consider the potential risks and limitations of the product.

Regulatory Status

The regulatory status of Macrolane has varied by country, reflecting differing medical standards and concerns about its safety and efficacy. In some jurisdictions, its use has been restricted or discontinued, especially for breast augmentation purposes.

Conclusion

While Macrolane offered a non-surgical option for body contouring and volume restoration, its use has been overshadowed by concerns related to safety, particularly in breast augmentation. The medical community continues to explore and develop alternative treatments that balance aesthetic desires with health and safety considerations.

Resources

Latest articles - Macrolane

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• Ongoing trials

Source: Data courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Since the data might have changed, please query MeSH on Macrolane for any updates.

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