Wrinkle fillers, or facial fillers, are used to minimize the wrinkles, creases and lines that appear during the normal aging process. The Mayo Clinic explains that fillers can be harvested from your own body--fats and other soft tissues--or they can include medications or animal-based collagen proteins. Facial filler treatments are invasive cosmetic procedures and can carry some temporary and uncomfortable side effects.
Swelling
Swelling is one of the most expected side effects of wrinkle filler treatments. The areas that are filled are disturbed from their natural state, which can cause temporary swelling that can last for several days after your procedures. The American Academy of Dermatology explains that most filling agents should be left in place, without any manipulation--touching--directly after the procedure, to help control the swelling. Your doctor may advise you to apply an ice pack to the treated area for about 15 minutes directly after your filler treatment. If you experience hives or swelling of your tongue or airways, notify your doctor immediately. These are signs of a severe allergic reaction, and could be life-threatening without the appropriate care.
Discoloration
Redness and bruising of the skin after a facial filler treatment is a possible side effect to watch for, according to the FDA. A red discoloration may be restricted to the areas of skin that are swollen, or you might experience a raised, bumpy rash. The AAD advises patients to refrain from exercise for at least a day after having a filler treatment, to keep bruising to a minimum.
Discomfort
Pain is a side effect of just about any invasive medical procedure, and a cosmetic filler is no exception. Tenderness of the treated areas is common, as well as an all-encompassing pain directly after the procedure. You might also feel itching in response to the materials being introduced into your body. Discomfort associated with wrinkle fillers usually lasts no more than a week after your treatment. Severe itching that accompanies hives could be another sign of anaphylaxis--an allergic reaction--and should be reported to a medical care provider immediately.
Risk of Infection
The FDA explains that injectable wrinkle fillers can carry a risk of infection, due to the fact that harmful bacteria can enter your body during the procedure. Signs of infection could include developing an open wound that drains or does not heal, sores that are located where you received the injection, or a fever.
Member Comments