Dermal fillers are a popular way to temporarily reduce the appearance of wrinkles and facial lines. However, recent studies suggest that prolonged and repeated use of deep tissue facial fillers can cause permanent damage or damage to the lymphatic system of the face. According to research published in Aesthetics, long-acting dermal fillers have higher rates of complications, such as infections and nodules. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, depending on their specific chemical composition, can last from six months to much longer before they are gradually absorbed by the body.
Recent advances in the development of these dermal fillers have made them last up to 12 months or longer. This filler uses calcium (in the form of microscopic particles) and adds it to a gel that is then injected. The most serious risk associated with dermal fillers is accidental injection into a blood vessel. Most people use HA fillers, which is the same component found in many topical skin care products designed for anti-aging and skin volume.
Some people worry that their skin will sag after receiving the filler and they will be tied to injections for life. While it is more durable compared to other more easily biodegradable fillers, it has potential complications, such as clumping or visibility under the skin. So what should a smart consumer interested in non-invasive treatments to reduce the signs of aging do? Finding the right doctor to perform the dermal filler procedure is key. Lamperle and colleagues (200) examined the tissue of several different injectable fillers, including Restylane, after intradermal infiltration into the volar forearm.
Chemically modified hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, both of animal and non-animal origin, have a very low incidence of long-term side effects, but patients should be informed of the potential risk of foreign body reactions to these injectable agents. Dr. Dan Kennedy, spokesman for the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, warns people to be very careful with permanent and semi-permanent fillers. Wexler says there isn't much mystery in fillers right now, and doctors are aware of any risks that may arise with the exception, of course, of new products hitting the market.
If your healthcare provider confirms that dermal fillers are an option for you, know that all medical products have benefits and risks. Although infections also occur from temporary fillers such as HA and can cause damage to the skin and subcutaneous fat, they are rare, Kennedy says. The exact cause of these chronic inflammatory reactions following injection of chemically modified hyaluronic acid fillers has been discussed.
