When it comes to facial fillers, there are a lot of misconceptions out there. Many people believe that these treatments are safe and can even slow the progression of wrinkles. However, the truth is that facial fillers can be dangerous if not administered properly. In this article, we'll discuss the risks associated with facial fillers, why they should be avoided by younger generations, and what to do if you experience any side effects.
Facial fillers are substances injected into the skin to add volume and reduce wrinkles. Commonly used substances include hyaluronic acid, collagen, and enzymes. While these substances can improve collagen production and create a more youthful appearance, they can also cause serious side effects when injected improperly. Allergic reactions, infections, and the death of skin cells are all possible risks associated with facial fillers.
In addition, improper injection techniques can cause swelling, lumps, and even more serious side effects such as skin cell death and embolism leading to blindness. The FDA has reported 62 strokes or strokes and 47 cases of blindness attributed to facial fillers. Strokes can occur when an injection hits a blood vessel and blocks it, while blindness can occur when an injection near the eye blocks a blood vessel. Accidental injections of facial filler into blood vessels can occur anywhere on the face, but they are more likely to occur between the eyebrows and nose, in and around the nose, on the forehead and around the eyes. In addition to these risks, there is also the risk of facial filler overuse.
A little goes a long way with cheek fillers; using too much can cause a pillow face, a face that is too puffy and distorted. Believing that having fillers can slow the progression of wrinkles, many cosmetic professionals find that they have an increasing number of patients in their twenties, and even some requests for injection of fillers from people in their teens. The truth is that there are many other ways to maintain a youthful appearance without resorting to facial fillers. Instead of focusing on every wrinkle and line, it's sometimes best to use fillers to reverse aging by increasing volume to refresh key facial areas that contribute to your youthful appearance. The rise of social media has also contributed to the trend of younger generations seeking out facial fillers. The “filler mustache” is when dermal fillers intended for lip augmentation sit on the lips to create a bump or roll similar to a mustache.
Physicians should fully inform patients of the risks associated with the procedure and have a plan to treat patients if accidental injection into blood vessels occurs. The FDA has asked manufacturers of facial fillers to update their labels to include additional warnings about the risk of accidental injection into blood vessels. Despite this warning, many people still believe that long-term use of filler is safe. However, this is not necessarily true; there are still risks associated with long-term use. When done by an experienced physician, the results of chin fillers can be very natural and harmonious with the rest of the patient's facial features. Personally, I prefer a less-is-more approach; using small amounts of dermal fillers (or combination treatments) to improve your appearance and facial proportions without exaggerating or looking like someone different.
In conclusion, it's important to remember that facial fillers can be dangerous if not administered properly. Younger generations should avoid using them as there are many other ways to maintain a youthful appearance without resorting to them. If you experience any side effects after receiving facial fillers, seek medical attention immediately.
