GUEST POST: Filler Facts!

Knowing the specific characteristics of a filler and the potential complications that can arise and how to deal with those complications is crucial in performing effective and safe filler procedures. Filler treatments have become one of the most popular noninvasive cosmetic procedures performed in the aesthetic practice, and with appropriate application, the results achieved can be remarkable. However, it is important to find a skilled injector, like Dr. Azizzadeh, to perform your non-invasive rejuvenation treatments in order to achieve optimal results. 

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers

Though many fillers are effective in the treatment of lines and wrinkles of varying depths and useful in volume replacement, reversible fillers such as hyaluronic acid (HA) products are the most frequently used fillers today. The HAs are popular not only because they can achieve excellent cosmetic outcomes, but also because the physician can reverse an over-correction soon after injection, if necessary.

Before and after Juvederm treatments to correct marionette lines

Filler Treatments Side Effects

The intensity and duration of your side effects depends on your particular treatment and your individual healing characteristics, but generally subside within 1 week after the filler injections. Common side effects associated with filler treatment can include stinging, swelling, bruising, redness, and some tenderness following injection. These are, however, all typically very minor. But other, more serious complications can occur as well. Many of these are usually associated with the use of improper injection techniques.

Local blanching (temporary whitening of the skin) occurring after the injection of a HA filler could also be due to a vascular occlusion. In a scenario where vascular occlusion is suspected, Dr. Azizzadeh believes that it is best to reverse it by applying nitrate paste and hot packs to the area. These will increase the local circulation, and hopefully remove the concentration of local filler product. If these attempts fail, a hyaluronidase injection may reverse the occlusion.

Before and after Botox therapy to correct a sagging chin

The Importance of Knowing your Fillers

Similar to other filler products, the HA’s have a range of moieties across the different products available, allowing Dr. Azizzadeh to aesthetically treat a range of lines, fold, and wrinkles of all depths. Knowing the characteristics and individual properties of the filler you are using is extremely important in helping to avoid potential complications.

A physician needs to have an intimate knowledge of the anatomy where the injection will occur, and be aware of the complications that can arise, which are often related to the product one uses as well as injection technique. Unfortunately, many physicians are overly zealous in their aesthetic treatments, which in turn will come back to haunt both the physician and the patient.

That is why it is extremely important to consult an experienced and renowned facial rejuvenation expert if you are considering filler treatments. If you would like to know more about our treatment options and the expertise of Dr. Azizzadeh*, schedule a consultation by calling310.657.2203 today!

*Dr. Azizzadeh is  a board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who practices in Beverly Hills, California. He is a Harvard trained, world-renowned facial plastic surgeon who has been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show and is the author of the best-selling book “Beverly Hills Beauty Secrets.”