Combination Biostimulation Strategy Aims to Improve Body Contouring Efficiency

A multimodal biostimulatory approach combining calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA), recombinant platelet-derived growth factor-BB (rhPDGF-BB), and microneedling may offer a more efficient and cost-conscious strategy for body rejuvenation, according to Sarah L. Allen, MD, during her Music City SCALE 2026 presentation, “Synergistic Biostimulation.”

The session addressed persistent limitations in nonsurgical body contouring, particularly the large volume of injectable product often required to achieve visible results. Traditional approaches may require “up to 20 syringes per side,” creating substantial financial barriers and limiting accessibility for many patients.

Dr Allen emphasized that “single-modality approaches yield modest results,” highlighting the need for combination strategies that target multiple regenerative pathways simultaneously.

CaHA, commonly used as a biostimulatory filler, was presented as a foundational component due to its ability to function as a “micro-scaffold” that stimulates neocollagenesis. The material provides structural support while promoting collagen I and III regeneration over time. However, combining CaHA with additional regenerative signals may enhance and accelerate remodeling.

The proposed protocol incorporated rhPDGF-BB alongside diluted CaHA and saline. PDGF-BB was highlighted for its role in promoting angiogenesis and fibroblast proliferation, potentially amplifying tissue repair and extracellular matrix production.

Delivery was performed using retrograde fanning within the reticular dermis through a cannula-based technique, followed by microneedling to further stimulate tissue remodeling. This combination approach was designed to leverage both injectable biostimulation and controlled dermal injury.

The “PDGF-CaHA combination accelerates matrix remodeling vs CaHA alone,” Dr Allen stated, suggesting a synergistic effect between growth factor signaling and scaffold-based collagen induction.

This approach may also improve procedural efficiency. Rather than requiring 10 to 20 syringes per treatment area, the protocol reportedly achieves clinical improvement with approximately 1 to 4 syringes per area, reducing both product burden and overall cost.

Early experience demonstrated encouraging improvements in skin texture and tone with minimal downtime. Treatment areas discussed included the knees, hands, arms, and abdomen—regions often difficult to manage with traditional nonsurgical approaches.

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Reference
Allen SL. Synergistic biostimulation. Presented at: Music City SCALE Symposium; May 13–17, 2026; Nashville, TN.