Dermal fillers are a popular cosmetic procedure used to reduce wrinkles, creases, and volume loss caused by age or certain medical conditions. While the procedure is generally safe, there are some risks associated with it, including allergic reactions, infections, and death of skin cells. The most serious risk is accidental injection into a blood vessel, which can cause skin necrosis, stroke, or blindness. Despite these risks, dermal fillers can be an effective way to improve the appearance of facial lines and volume loss.
The FDA has issued an official warning urging consumers to never buy dermal fillers on the Internet. Juvederm is the first FDA-approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler proven to be safe and effective for people of color. Hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers are widely used for scar correction and lip augmentation. However, they may not be suitable for people with certain conditions, such as bleeding disorders or some allergies.
People should be tested for allergies before receiving dermal fillers made with certain materials, especially animal-derived materials such as collagen. There is a misconception that temporary fillers rarely cause side effects; the frequency is comparable to that induced by permanent and long-term fillers, but their duration is shorter and therefore less severe. The main drawback of purified hyaluronic acid dermal filler is the short half-life of hyaluronic acid in the dermis, estimated at 24 to 48 hours. To date, no universally applicable dermal fillers have been developed, although manufacturers of hyaluronic acid-based products claim that their products are close to meeting many of the requirements of an ideal tissue augmentation agent.
I have read that there are no studies that indicate a connection between facial fillers and cancer, but since fillers are still new, there are no longitudinal studies. If you have had a problem with a dermal filler or other FDA-regulated product, you can voluntarily report it to MedWatch, the FDA's safety information and adverse event reporting program. If your healthcare provider confirms that dermal fillers are an option for you, know that all medical products have benefits and risks. Overall, dermal fillers can be an effective way to improve the appearance of facial lines and volume loss caused by age or certain medical conditions. However, it is important to understand the risks associated with this procedure before undergoing treatment. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider about any allergies or medical conditions you may have before receiving dermal fillers.
