Complications of Injectable Fillers, Part I

Abstract

Dermal filling has rapidly become one of the most common procedures performed by clinicians worldwide. The vast majority of treatments are successful and patient satisfaction is high. However, complications, both mild and severe, have been reported and result from injection of many different types of dermal fillers. In this Continuing Medical Education review article, the author describes common technical errors, the signs and symptoms of both common and rare complications, and management of sequelae in clear, easily adaptable treatment algorithms.

Dermal filler complications: a clinicopathologic study with a spectrum of histologic reaction patterns

“…Although the injected material may have an important role in the occurrence of complications, some reports proposed that most complications are, however, caused by the technique of injection [6]. The common technical errors leading to filler complications included improper volume (too much or too little), improper depth (superficial or deep), wrong location (unfavorable or incorrect anatomic location), and inappropriate material [7]. The role of histologic assessment in immediate or early-onset complications is usually limited, whereas in delayed or late-onset complications, it is crucial.…”

Exploring the Possibility of a Retrograde Embolism Pathway from the Facial Artery to the Ophthalmic Artery System In Vivo

“…However, with the continuous improvement in the effects and increasing use of applications, many types of complications have also emerged in an endless stream. Some of the symptoms are relatively mild, including bruising, swelling, the Tyndall effect, nodules, infection, activation of herpes simplex and granulomatous inflammation [17]. Generally, the management of these complications is not difficult for physicians.…”

Complications caused by injection of dermal filler in Danish patients

“…Since the complications often have a late onset of up to several years, patients may have forgotten or are unaware of the type of filler injection they received. In these cases, a biopsy can be useful [12][13][14]. Histologically, evaluation can sometimes show whether the filler is transient or permanent and even the subtype.…”