LaViv (azficel-T) is a personalized autologous fibroblast cell therapy developed by Fibrocell Science, Inc. It is the first and only FDA‑approved cellular therapy for aesthetic use, indicated for the improvement of moderate to severe nasolabial fold wrinkles (“smile lines”) in adults. The technology is now available at Hainan Boao Worldlicht Hospital (Boao Future Hospital) within the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, offering patients access to this breakthrough regenerative treatment.

What Is LaViv?

LaViv is a personalized cell therapy that uses a patient’s own fibroblasts — the cells responsible for producing collagen, elastin, and other components of the skin’s extracellular matrix. As we age, the number of fibroblasts in the skin decreases and collagen breaks down, leading to wrinkles and loss of skin tone. LaViv addresses this by replenishing the skin with a concentrated dose of the patient’s own, actively growing fibroblasts.

The treatment process begins with a small skin biopsy (approximately 2–3 mm) taken from behind the patient’s ear. The fibroblasts are isolated from the sample and cultured using Fibrocell Science’s proprietary “cell multiplication” technology. The expanded cells are then frozen and stored, and later formulated into an injectable suspension. The final product is injected back into the patient’s nasolabial folds (smile lines) in a series of treatments. Since the cells are the patient’s own, there is no risk of allergic reaction or rejection.

Autologous (Personalized)

LaViv uses the patient’s own fibroblast cells, eliminating the risk of immune rejection or allergic reaction.

FDA‑Approved

LaViv received FDA approval on June 21, 2011, making it the first and only personalized cell therapy approved by the FDA for aesthetic use.

Natural and Long‑Lasting

Unlike synthetic fillers, LaViv stimulates the body’s own collagen production, yielding natural‑looking results that can last 10–15 years.

Non‑Synthetic

LaViv contains no artificial fillers, chemicals, or animal products — it is 100% natural and biocompatible.

Proprietary Technology

The “cell multiplication” technology behind LaViv is protected by 44 international patents and 4 Chinese patents.

Awards and Recognitions

LaViv has received numerous prestigious awards and recognitions, underscoring its status as a breakthrough in aesthetic medicine:

  • 2013 Edison Awards – Silver Winner: LaViv was recognized as the Silver Winner in the aesthetics category of the science/medical division at the 2013 Edison Awards.
  • #3 Top Story of 2011 in Cell & Gene Therapy: The FDA approval of LaViv was named the #3 top story of 2011 in cell and gene therapy and regenerative medicine at the 2012 Cell & Gene Therapy Forum.
  • 2012 World Technology Award – Biotechnology: LaViv received the 2012 World Technology Award in the biotechnology category.
  • 2012 Wall Street Journal Technology Innovation Award: LaViv was recognized with the 2012 Wall Street Journal Technology Innovation Award.
  • 2012 Golden Bridge Award – Gold Winner: LaViv won the Gold Award at the 2012 Golden Bridge Awards.
  • 2011 Cell & Gene Therapy Recognition: LaViv’s FDA approval was voted the #3 top story of 2011 by industry leaders in cell and gene therapy.

Clinical Efficacy

LaViv has been evaluated in multiple clinical trials, demonstrating consistent improvement in the appearance of nasolabial fold wrinkles. In clinical studies, patients received a series of injections, and the results were followed for six months after the final treatment. The therapy effectively improved the appearance of moderate to severe nasolabial fold wrinkles, with effects that continue to develop over time.

Beyond the nasolabial folds, LaViv has shown promise in other applications, including the improvement of facial acne scars, surgical scars, and other skin textural irregularities. The technology has been used by more than 14,000 patients worldwide, with a strong safety profile.

One of the most compelling aspects of LaViv is its durability. While synthetic fillers typically last 6–18 months, the effects of LaViv can persist for 10–15 years, as the injected fibroblasts continue to produce collagen and maintain the skin’s structural integrity. The treatment requires an initial series of injections, followed by periodic maintenance if desired.

Comparison with Traditional Fillers

FeatureLaViv (Autologous Fibroblasts)Hyaluronic Acid FillersBotox
SourcePatient’s own cellsSynthetic / animal‑derivedPurified bacterial toxin
MechanismStimulates natural collagen productionPhysical volume replacementMuscle paralysis
Duration10–15 years6–18 months3–6 months
Side EffectsMinimal, no allergic riskPossible allergic reaction, lumpsFacial stiffness, muscle weakness
FDA ApprovalYes (2011, aesthetic use)Yes (various products)Yes (various products)

Availability at Lecheng

Through the Boao Lecheng Pilot Zone’s “pioneering pilot” policy, LaViv is now available at Hainan Boao Worldlicht Hospital (Boao Future Hospital) in Hainan, China. This allows patients to access this world‑class regenerative therapy without the need to travel abroad. The hospital is equipped with the necessary facilities and expertise to perform the skin biopsy, cell culture, and injection procedures according to the highest international standards.