What Can Go Wrong With Dermal Fillers?

Swelling & Bruising

Redness & Tenderness

Asymmetry

## LongTerm Complications

Asymmetry is a common long-term complication associated with dermal filler injections.

Here’s why:

1. Filler Migration:

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances designed to add volume and smooth out wrinkles. However, over time, these fillers can migrate from the injection site, shifting under the skin due to natural movements, gravity, or even trauma. This migration can lead to unevenness and asymmetry.

2. Uneven Distribution:

Even with skilled injection techniques, it’s challenging to ensure perfectly symmetrical distribution of filler during a treatment session. Minor variations in pressure, product placement, or individual skin texture can result in subtle asymmetries that may become more apparent over time.

3. Natural Facial Anatomy:

Every face has unique asymmetries due to natural bone structure and muscle development. These pre-existing asymmetries may become more pronounced or highlighted after filler injections if not carefully considered during treatment planning.

4. Product Degradation:**

Dermal fillers are gradually broken down by the body over time. This degradation process can be uneven, leading to volume loss in one area while another retains its fullness, further contributing to asymmetry.

Addressing Asymmetry:

If you’re concerned about asymmetry after filler injections, consult with a qualified and experienced injector. They may recommend:

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Additional Filler Injections: Carefully placed small amounts of filler can be used to balance out the volume difference.

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Dissolving Existing Filler: If the asymmetry is severe or caused by uneven distribution, some of the existing filler may be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

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Alternative Treatments: Depending on the specific concerns, alternative treatments like Botox or facial muscle relaxing techniques might be considered to address contributing factors to asymmetry.

Lumps & Nodules

Infection

Migration

## Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions are a potential complication associated with dermal filler injections. While rare, they can range from mild to severe.

Here’s a breakdown of allergic reactions related to dermal fillers:

• Types of Allergic Reactions:

1. Type I Hypersensitivity (Immediate): Occurs within minutes to hours after injection. Symptoms include redness, swelling, itching, hives, and in rare cases, anaphylaxis.

2. Type IV Hypersensitivity (Delayed): Develops 24-72 hours after injection. Symptoms may include a rash, bumps, or swelling at the injection site.

• Causes of Allergic Reactions:

• Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers:

• Ingredients in HA fillers, such as lidocaine or other additives.

• Cross-linking agents used in some HA fillers.

• Risk Factors:

• History of allergies to HA products or other injectables.

• Previous reactions to dermal fillers.

• Sensitivity to certain ingredients.

• Prevention and Management:

• Thorough medical history review, including allergy assessment, before injection.

• Skin testing with potential filler components can help identify sensitivities.

• Use of HA fillers that have a lower risk of allergic reactions (e.g., those without additives).

• Administration by a qualified and experienced injector.

• Close monitoring after injection for signs of an allergic reaction.

• Treatment:

• Mild reactions can often be managed with topical antihistamines or corticosteroids.

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• Severe reactions may require systemic corticosteroids and epinephrine.

• In some cases, hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down HA fillers, may be used to dissolve the filler.

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Hives & Itching

Anaphylaxis (Rare)