PLA
What Is It?
PLA (poly-L-lactic acid) is a collagen stimulator: placed under the skin, it does not create volume directly but starts a controlled response in the tissue. The body absorbs the material over time, and the collagen production triggered during that absorption is what produces the intended effect.
This mechanism also sets the rhythm of the treatment. With filler the result is seen on the day; with PLA it accumulates over weeks. Looking for a marked difference in the mirror after the first session is misleading — here the change is slow and comes from your own tissue.
How Is It Done?
Treatment begins with assessment of the skin and tissue. The degree of volume loss, skin thickness and the general state of the tissue are examined; whether PLA is appropriate and how many sessions may be needed are planned accordingly. For people expecting a fast result, the difference in rhythm is discussed at the outset.
The product is prepared and left to stand before use. After topical anaesthetic cream it is placed with a cannula or a needle into the planned layer, distributed evenly. The procedure averages 30 minutes. Massage of the area is requested afterwards — this step matters for preventing problems related to uneven distribution, and the instructions given should be followed. The protocol is usually 2 sessions, 4-6 weeks apart.
Who Is It For?
Suitable for people with gradual volume loss in the face who notice thinning of the skin and reduced tissue support, and who are looking for lasting, natural change rather than a fast one. It is preferred over broad surface areas such as the temples, below the cheekbones and the cheeks.
It is not used in thin, superficial areas such as the under-eye and the lips. It will not meet the expectations of people who want an immediate result, because the effect takes months to appear. Pregnancy and breastfeeding, active infection at the site, a history of keloid or excessive scarring, uncontrolled autoimmune disease and known allergy to the product all change the planning and are assessed individually at examination.
Process & Recovery
Assessment
The degree of volume loss, skin thickness and tissue condition are examined; session count and intervals are planned. That the result unfolds over months is discussed at the outset. Photographs are taken.
Treatment day
The prepared product is placed into the planned layer with even distribution after topical anaesthetic cream. The procedure averages 30 minutes; the massage routine is demonstrated at the end.
First 5 days — massage period
Swelling, tenderness and bruising may occur. The massage routine is carried out regularly in this period; even distribution of the product depends on it. Heat and intense exercise are not advised.
Weeks 4-6 — session 2
The effect of the first session may not yet have fully appeared; this is normal. The second session is carried out at the planned interval.
Months 2-6
The collagen response accumulates and becomes visible in this period. Assessment is made from the third month onwards by photographic comparison.
Results & Duration
The effect appears not on the day of treatment but accumulates over months. The first difference is usually felt after the second month and the result becomes clear at 3-6 months. That slowness is the nature of the method and is what makes the change arrive unnoticed.
The range generally reported is 18-24 months; duration varies with age, skin structure and the amount placed. The effect is not permanent, fades over time and requires renewal.
What Is Not Promised
PLA is not a filler: it does not give volume on the day of treatment and is not the right method for anyone seeking an immediate result. It does not gather lax skin, does not replace a face lift and has no effect on pigmentation or surface skin problems. It is not used in thin areas such as the under-eye and the lips.
No particular increase in volume, session count or duration is guaranteed. If the two-session protocol is left unfinished, the expected result will not be obtained. Following the massage instructions afterwards matters for the evenness of the result.
Key Benefits
- Collagen stimulation
- Long-term firmness
- Natural rejuvenation
“PLA is a method that asks for patience. In the first month the patient says “nothing happened”; by the third month the people around them say “you look rested”. For anyone who wants to change without being noticed, this is the right route.”
— Dr. Sinan Akyürek
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PLA a filler?
No. It does not give volume directly; it stimulates collagen production in the tissue and the effect accumulates over months.
When will I see the result?
The first difference is usually felt after the second month and the result becomes clear at 3-6 months. No marked change is expected in the first month.
How many sessions are needed?
Usually 2 sessions, 4-6 weeks apart. The exact number is decided according to the state of the tissue.
How long does it last?
The range generally reported is 18-24 months, varying with age, skin structure and the amount placed. It is not permanent.
Why is massage needed?
So the product distributes evenly in the tissue. Following the instructions given in the first days matters for preventing problems related to uneven distribution.
Can it be used under the eyes?
No. It is not used in thin, superficial areas; it suits broad surfaces such as the temples, below the cheekbones and the cheeks.
I want an immediate result — is it suitable?
This method is not designed for speed. If a visible change is wanted straight away, other options are discussed at examination.
Which situations need separate assessment?
Pregnancy and breastfeeding, active infection at the site, a history of keloid or excessive scarring, uncontrolled autoimmune disease and known allergy to the product all change the planning; each is discussed at examination.