The Risks & Complications of Lip Filler Treatments
Karli Plunkett, DMSc, PA-C, LME
July 26, 2023
3 min read
Lip augmentation, especially via dermal fillers, is a popular aesthetic procedure that can dramatically transform one's appearance. However, like any medical intervention, it carries certain risks and complications that patients should understand before proceeding. The complications can escalate when procedures are performed by individuals who aren't licensed professionals, such as at injection parties.
Vascular Occlusion from Lip Fillers
One of the most critical complications of lip fillers is vascular occlusion. This occurs when the filler is accidentally injected into a blood vessel, disrupting the blood flow to the tissues and potentially leading to tissue death or necrosis. It can also cause severe pain, swelling, and bluish discoloration (cyanosis) in the affected area. In rare cases, vascular occlusion can lead to vision changes or blindness if the filler enters the blood vessels supplying the eyes.
Infection Risk from Lip Fillers
Infection is another significant risk, as lip fillers breach the skin barrier, exposing the treated area to potential pathogens. Symptoms of infection include prolonged swelling, redness, pain, and fever. Moreover, an allergic reaction to the filler material can also occur, leading to similar symptoms.
Infections are most common when injection procedures are performed in non-sterile settings. We most often see infections from patients who were injected by at "botox parties".
Lumpy and/or Ducky Lips
A poorly performed procedure may result in asymmetric or lumpy lips, which can be unsightly and distressing for the patient. Overfilling can also cause an unnatural, 'duck-like' appearance. Some patients like this overdone look, though we refer out these patients and focus on natural-looking lip filler treatments.
These risks can dramatically increase when procedures are carried out by unlicensed individuals. In an uncontrolled environment like an injection party, the lack of adequate sterilization increases the risk of infection. Additionally, an untrained person may not understand the complex anatomy of the facial vasculature, increasing the likelihood of vascular occlusion. If you are simply looking for lip filler near me, then you're likely to find many injectors who will perform lip filler treatments without adequate training.
In case of complications, one tool that can be employed is hyaluronidase, an enzyme that can dissolve hyaluronic acid-based fillers. It works by breaking down hyaluronic acid into its basic components, thereby reducing the volume of the filler. It is a valuable remedy in managing filler-induced complications, though it is not without its own potential side effects, including allergic reactions or a higher risk of infection due to additional skin barrier breaches.
Hyaluron Pen Risks
Recently, the use of hyaluron pens for administering fillers has gained popularity, largely because they are touted as non-invasive. These pens use high pressure to force the filler through the skin, negating the need for a needle. While this may sound appealing, it carries its own set of risks. The FDA released a warning against hyaluron pen needleless treatments due to serious injuries and permanent harm to patients.
Firstly, the pressure required to force the filler through the skin can cause significant tissue trauma, leading to swelling, bruising, and potentially damage to the skin. Secondly, the inability to control the exact depth and distribution of the filler can lead to uneven results. Moreover, the risk of vascular occlusion still exists, and it may be harder to detect and treat since the filler is dispersed over a broader area.
Choosing your Lip Filler Injector
To ensure your safety, always choose a qualified, licensed professional to administer lip fillers. Ask about their credentials, experience, and the specific products they use. Be aware of the potential risks and complications, and ensure that they have a plan in place for managing any complications that may arise.
In conclusion, while lip fillers can help enhance one's appearance, the decision to undergo such procedures should not be taken lightly. This is why our PA and NP injectors undergo specialized training in lip filler procedures, and perform comprehensive consultations with each patient. Our Orlando lip filler patients prioritize natural-looking lip augmentation results, and we will happily refer out patients who prefer a more exaggerated appearance.