Evaluating a Topical Adjunctive Post Submental ATX-101 (Deoxycholic Acid) Injection for Improved Recovery: A Single-Center, Double-Blind, Randomized Controlled Pilot Study

BACKGROUND: Optimizing postprocedural recovery and outcomes for patients is the aim for all physicians. TransFORM Body Treatment with TriHex Technology (TFB) is a topical product that aids in the elimination of fat particles created during procedures and the reduction of associated inflammation, thus speeding up postprocedure recovery time. OBJECTIVES: Evaluation of postprocedural symptoms, signs, and healing following submental deoxycholic acid (DCA) injections in combination with TFB. METHODS: Participants received 2 treatments of submental DCA injections. Posttreatment 1, every participant received TFB to apply twice daily to the submental area. Follow-up visits included weeks 1, 2, and 4. After week 4, participants discontinued TFB for 30 days before the second treatment. At the second treatment visit, participants were randomized to receive either TFB or a bland moisturizer to apply twice daily with the same follow-up visits as posttreatment 1. Induration measurements, submental fullness grading, and standardized photography were captured at every visit. At all follow-up visits and before treatment 2, investigator assessments and participant assessments were completed. RESULTS: Posttreatment 2, investigator assessments of edema and induration decreased in participants using TFB at weeks 1 and 2 compared with the bland moisturizer. Induration measurements objectively showed a statistically significant reduction at week 2 (posttreatment 2) in participants using TFB compared with the bland moisturizer. Furthermore, participants reported less tenderness and soreness in the TFB group over the bland moisturizer. CONCLUSIONS: Investigator assessments, participant query, and objective induration analyses have demonstrated that the use of TFB post DCA injections may reduce induration, edema, and discomfort associated with this procedure. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 2: [Image: see text]