Dermal fillers are medical treatments and, as such, are not risk-free.
Temporary effects may be pain, redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and itching. Other effects may be the development of a rash or semilocal reaction. Potential effects may be the development of nodules or infection. Unintended injection of filler into a blood vessel can damage tissue as a rare, severe complication. Injections of fillers carry many risks, and your doctor will discuss the specific risks associated with the filler and treatment area.
Seek urgent medical attention for concerning symptoms. Follow the emergency instructions provided by your clinician. Seek prompt medical help for significant skin changes, increasing pain, vision changes, neurological symptoms, or rapidly worsening symptoms. Do not wait for your next scheduled appointment if you have a concerning reaction.
Important: the information on this page is general educational information. It does not replace an assessment and treatment from a medical professional.
When treatment may need to be postponed your provider needs a complete history first, including whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding; have allergies; are taking medications or supplements; have anything affecting bleeding or bruising; have an active infection, inflammation, or a rash; have cold sores or herpes; were recently ill, had a vaccination, dental work done, or any other recent procedure; have had fillers or implants done on your face before; have had anything happen to you, your face or your body as a result of fillers or implants before; or anything else your provider asks you to disclose. Treatment may need to be delayed for valid medical reasons this is not considered a missed appointment. Do not stop prescribed medications unless the doctor managing them says that is okay.
Aftercare: each provider outlines their own unique instructions based on the product, the treatment, and the individual, but in general, they will instruct you to avoid applying pressure or generally moving and manipulating the treated area, as well as providing instructions regarding the timing of your return to exercise, heat exposure, skincare, and cosmetics. Resist the urge to play or mess with your lip fillers unless otherwise instructed. Your provider will have given detailed instructions for your follow-up if you are experiencing swelling, bruising, and other common side effects. Also be sure to know the telephone number of the clinic and the symptoms that warrant a call outside of normal hours, as well as when you should be seeking further assistance.