Lipodystrophy

What is Lipodystrophy?

Lipodystrophy, also known as facial wasting, refers to a characteristic fat loss in the cheeks and temples. When the fat wastes away it results in a bony “sunken” facial appearance. Facial Lipodystrophy is more likely to occur in individuals who have taken HIV medications and can be quite stigmatizing.

What causes Facial Wasting?

  • Nucleoside analog Anti-HIV drugs (long-term use)
  • Natural aging
  • Low body fat percentages
  • Anorexia or bulimia
  • HIV/AIDS, cancer, and Other diseases resulting in extreme weight loss

Treatment for Facial Wasting

The most common treatments for facial wasting is Sculptra®. It is used to treat all four stages of facial wasting, normal, mild, moderate, and severe facial wasting. Sculptra®: Sculptra® injections increase facial volume. Sculptra® can be performed in-office with no pretesting and normal activity can be done immediately after treatment.