Are Facial Fillers Safe? A Comprehensive Guide

Fillers are a popular way to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and facial lines, but there are some risks associated with their use. Fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a natural substance that binds water and is found throughout the body. The hyaluronic acid used in fillers is stabilized to make it last longer. However, there are some potential risks that come with using fillers, such as allergic reactions, infections, and the death of skin cells.

In addition, improper injection techniques can lead to swelling and lumping, as well as more serious side effects like death of skin cells and embolism leading to blindness. The FDA has issued an official warning urging consumers never to buy dermal fillers on the Internet, as they can be false, contaminated or harmful. The most serious risk associated with dermal fillers is accidental injection into a blood vessel. Filling that enters a blood vessel can cause skin necrosis (tissue death), stroke, or blindness.

Although the chances of this happening are low, if it does occur, the resulting complications can be serious and permanent. Recent studies have also indicated that repeated and prolonged use of deep tissue facial fillers can cause permanent damage or damage to the lymphatic system of the face. It is important to note that the decision to use fillers should be part of a short-term treatment plan and that long-term use is not recommended. In addition to skin tightening, excessive use of fillers can lead to longer-term damage, including lip wrinkles and altered attachment of facial fat pads and some degree of skin irregularity and aging.

The cost of dermal filler treatments varies and depends on the provider performing them, the area being treated, and the type of filler selected. A licensed healthcare professional must perform all dermal filler procedures using only FDA-approved fillers injected with a syringe. This filler is different from other fillers because its results are gradual; volumizing occurs over several months, as it stimulates the body to produce collagen. See FDA's advice for using dermal fillers safely and learn the difference between dermal fillers and botulinum toxin injectable products. Lately we have heard horror stories; inexperienced practitioners using unregulated fillers that cause frostbite of the face, numbness, blindness (globally, about 50 cases of blindness have been reported after an aesthetic facial injection) and even death.

Dermal filler procedures can be costly, which has led some consumers to turn to the online black market to buy DIY fillers. To help put an end to their fears and yours, it's important to understand all the risks associated with facial fillers before making a decision about whether or not they are right for you. This guide will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not facial fillers are safe for you.

Carole Toussant
Carole Toussant

Hipster-friendly analyst. Incurable zombie geek. Evil reader. Unapologetic coffee lover. Amateur web expert.