The Dangers of Facial Fillers: What You Need to Know

Facial fillers are synthetic or natural substances that are injected into the lines, folds and tissues of the face to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and restore facial fullness that decreases with age. Injecting dermal fillers into the face and hands can improve the appearance of facial lines and volume loss caused by age or certain medical conditions. This technique takes fat from parts of the body, such as the buttocks, and injects it into facial areas to fill it. As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and volume, resulting in wrinkles, sagging skin, and a decrease in facial fullness.

Facial muscles also decrease in volume and elasticity, and deflation and movement of facial fat further accentuate signs of aging. To combat these signs of aging, numerous cosmetic procedures are available, with varying degrees of success. One such procedure is the injection of facial fillers. Facial fillers are synthetic or natural substances that are injected into the lines, folds and tissues of the face to diminish the appearance of wrinkles and restore facial fullness that decreases with age. This technique takes fat from parts of the body, such as the buttocks, and injects it into facial areas to fill it. The FDA has also approved botulinum toxin products such as Botox, Dysport, Xeomin and Jeuveau to treat facial wrinkles.

Botox can help minimize the appearance of lines and wrinkles caused by facial expressions. The gel itself dissipates a few days after treatment and is used to treat deeper facial wrinkles, with results lasting up to two years. Choosing the right type of dermal filler requires guidance from an experienced and board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon, with a thorough knowledge of facial anatomy and familiar with the variety of fillers available and their respective injection techniques. The injection of a facial filler is usually an outpatient procedure that is done with anesthetic medications.

Side Effects

Side effects reported in clinical trials include facial weakness, drooping eyelid, and drooping eyebrows. Other side effects included localized pain, swelling, redness and bruising at the injection site.

Rarely, injections have caused double vision, dry eyes, or difficulty swallowing or breathing. It is not recommended to inject botulinum toxin products for cosmetic purposes during pregnancy or lactation.

Complications

The most serious problems included 62 strokes or stroke-like events and 47 cases of blindness attributed to fillers. Strokes can occur when an injection hits a blood vessel and blocks it. Blindness can occur when an injection near the eye blocks a blood vessel.

Some cases of blindness occurred after receiving injections in the cheeks and forehead. According to research published in Aesthetics, long-acting dermal fillers have higher rates of complications, such as infections and nodules. You may have mild discomfort, bruising, and swelling for up to a week. After the swelling subsides, you may need a touch-up shot for best results.

The duration of the effect depends on the type of wrinkle and filler, among other factors. Globally, only about 50 cases of blindness have been reported after aesthetic facial injection, according to a study published last year in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology.

Conclusion

Facial fillers are becoming increasingly important as non-surgical treatment options for facial rejuvenation when used correctly. However, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and complications associated with these treatments before undergoing them.

It is recommended to consult with an experienced board-certified dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon before undergoing any type of facial filler treatment...

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