Blinded evaluation of the effects of hyaluronic acid filler injections on first impressions

Background Facial appearance has profound influence on the first impression that is projected to others. Objective To determine the effects that complete correction of the nasolabial folds (NLFs) with hyaluronic acid (HA) filler has on the first impression one makes. Methods Twenty-two subjects received injections of HA filler into the NLFs. Photographs of the face in a relaxed pose were taken at baseline, optimal correction visit, and 4 weeks after optimal correction. Three hundred four blinded evaluators completed a survey rating first impression on various measures of success for each photo. In total, 5,776 first impressions were recorded, totaling 46,208 individual assessments of first impression. RESULTS Our findings indicate a significant improvement in mean first impression in the categories of dating success, attractiveness, financial success, relationship success, athletic success, and overall first impression at the optimal correction visit. At 4 weeks after the optimal correction visit, significance was observed in all categories measured: social skills, academic performance, dating success, occupational success, attractiveness, financial success, relationship success, athletic success, and overall first impression. Conclusion Full correction of the NLFs with HA filler significantly and positively influences the first impression an individual projects. This study was funded by a grant from Medicis. The Restylane materials were supplied by Medicis. Dr. Dayan has received research support or provided consulting for Allergan, Medicis, Contura, Bioform, Ortho, and Coapt.