Trigeminal neuralgia is a severe facial pain disorder that can cause electric shock-like sensations in the face. It is estimated to affect 5 out of 100,000 people, with women being slightly more likely to experience it than men. The exact cause of trigeminal neuralgia is not fully known, but it is often linked to a blood vessel compressing the nerve. Treatments for this condition include medications, injections, surgery, and radiation, and the best option for each individual should be determined by their doctor.
In recent years, facial fillers have become increasingly popular for non-surgical facial procedures. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are the most commonly used type of filler and are injected into the skin layers of the dermis and middle dermis. While HA fillers are generally safe and effective, they can cause complications such as nodules that can be dissolved with hyaluronidase. It is important to be aware of the physical characteristics of different fillers, the various injection techniques, and the anatomy of the region being treated in order to prevent complications.
Additionally, there are seven danger zones for facial nerves that should be avoided when injecting fillers into the face. In some cases, facial fillers may lead to trigeminal neuralgia. This is because the initial inflammatory reaction caused by polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) can stimulate trigeminal fibers and cause neuropathic pain. To minimize this risk, it is important to avoid injecting fillers into people who already have malar pockets (pre-existing lymphatic involvement), preperiosteal filler, low G', low hygroscopic and small volume in the infraorbital region.
In rare cases, non-FDA approved fillers may lead to NTM infection. To reduce this risk, it is important to only use FDA-approved fillers and to be aware of any potential side effects or complications that may arise from their use. Overall, facial fillers can be a safe and effective way to improve one's appearance when used correctly. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with their use in order to ensure optimal results.
