What Filler Can I Use After Recently Using Aquamid?

Question

There was no difference at all after the first treatment so a month later I had another full treatment and again I cannot see much difference. I am very dissappointed as the results I got from a temporary filler were amazing. When is it safe to use a temporary filler again? And what filler do you recommend? Not in my lips but on the wrinkles above them.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

We are seeing many longterm problems associated with permanent fillers in our office. Complications from silicone biopolymers, Artefill, Bellafill, PMMA, and biopolimero should be addressed by an expert in the field.

In my practice, I specialize in the removal of Bellafill and Artefill injections, in addition to silicone biopolymers, from the face and body. Initially, treatments are non-surgical with corticosteroids and immune modulators. If unable to be corrected, we can also perform surgery in some cases.

Patients should undergo biometric screening, clinical assessment of Karamanoukian Grade of Soft Tissue Reaction, and ultrasound examination.

Silicone biopolymers can also be removed from the body if there are signs of migration or inflammation. All of these filler-types should be removed as early as possible.

Lastly, our office is conducting ongoing studies of plasma-assisted corticosteroid application, which allows for diffusion of the treatment medication in superficial tissue without causing atrophy.

Best,

Dr. Karamanoukian

Realself100 Surgeon

Glenn Vallecillos, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for the question.

	The best option for management of wrinkles above the lips would be a hyaluronic acid, such as Juvederm Ultra or Restylane.  In experienced hands, these injectable fillers produce excellent results for correction of lip wrinkles.  Excessive use of these fillers or too superficial of an injection may lead to the Tyndall Effect which leaves a classic bluish hue in the underlying skin. 

	Regarding the use of an injectable filler following previous treatments with Aquamid, at a month you should be safe to undergo treatments with an alternative filler such as a hyaluronic acid. Since Aquamid is considered a permanent filler, subjecting the previously treated area to new treatments may increase your chance of infection. I would recommend discussing these issues with your clinician so that you may better understand the risks and benefits of proceeding with a secondary treatment.

	Kindest Regards,

	Glenn Vallecillos, M.D., F.A.C.S.

What Filler Can I Use After Recently Using Aquamid?

Answers (2)