A review of hydrolifting: A new modality for skin rejuvenation

Abstract

Background: Hydrolifting is a newly developed modality of skin rejuvenation, which enhances overall facial volume augmentation and recovers skin thickness through multi-pass HA injection. Although it is commonly performed, only a few articles have reported on the rejuvenating effects of hydrolifting. Moreover, clear protocols and possible mechanisms of the procedure have not been elucidated. Objective: To define a novel technique for injecting HA and to clarify how to choose an appropriate HA filler based on the procedural purpose. Methods: This article is based on a review of the medical literature and the authors' clinical experience in investigating and treating skin wrinkles with the hydrolifting method. Results: In hydrolifting, HA filler serves as a hydration source, dermal volumizer, and stimulator of dermal collagen and antioxidants. Hydrolifting is frequently indicated in minor wrinkles, minor volume depletion and rough skin texture. Conclusion: The hydrolifting method is a newly introduced antiaging treatment modality. It effectively covers the blind spots of conventional HA injection, such as infraorbital, perioral and hand dorsal wrinkles. However, further investigations are needed to reach a consensus on the basic concepts of treatment, choice of appropriate fillers and optimal technique in hydrolifting.