Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid for Cleft Lip and Palate Aesthetic Correction: A Preliminary Report

BACKGROUND: Surgical treatment of cleft lip and palate is divided into primary and secondary procedures to restore physiological function and appearance of the face, mouth, and nose. Hyaluronic acid (HA) bio-implants have been successfully used for volume loss correction in several medical disciplines. However, there is paucity of information about its use in the management of facial clefting. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this report is to present the preliminary findings on the feasibility of using a cross-linked HA for aesthetic correction in previously surgical treated cleft lip and palate cases. METHODS: The cross-linked HA STYLAGE L, XL, and XXL (LABORATOIRES VIVACY, Paris, France) were used in this case series. Multiple treatment sessions, 4-6 weeks apart, were performed if required. RESULTS: A total of 15 patients had undergone the HA injections between May 2018 and December 2021. Of these, 13 had simultaneous correction of the nose, lip, and paranasal scar and the remaining 2 only the lip and scar. The procedures were uneventful and well tolerated by the patients. At follow-up, aesthetic improvement was observed in all patients. Moreover, patients reported overall satisfaction with the outcome of the procedures particularly because of its minimally invasive nature. CONCLUSIONS: Cross-linked HA is a feasible and promising complimentary option for aesthetic, and potentially functional, correction in cases of cleft lip and palate. Larger clinical trials are needed to validate these preliminary findings. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 4: [Image: see text]