How Rare is Skin Necrosis when Using Dermal Fillers?

The most feared complication of filler injections is tissue necrosis. This is caused by the interruption of the blood supply to the affected area by direct injury of the vessel perfusing the area around the vessel, or obstruction of the vessel by filler material itself. Fortunately, it is rare. In patients undergoing collagen injections, it as been in reported in nine of 10,000 patients. . Some areas such as the glabella, are at an increased risk, as has been reported for the... more

Unfortunately this sometimes catestrophic complication is rare but can occur when injecting the area of the central brow (glabella) , around the nose (Nasolabial folds and nose itself) and around the lips. The cause is compression or occlussion of an artery. A detailed knowledge of anatomy is essential when performing injections in these areas and it is why it is important to seek a board certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon or other board certified aesthetic... more