Complications after dermal filler injection into nasolabial folds?

Question

I had 2.5 ml injected into my nasolabial folds, cheeks and lips (not the first time). The left side of my nasolabial folds, i can feel a large area of filler which is hard and flat. This morning i am experiencing a straining sensation in my eyes and slight numbess in my nose. Could i be at risk to necrosis or even worse blindness? Or is this something that would happen instantly? I have been researching online of all complications that may occue.

George Gavrila, MD · Answer

teganleigh24, 
Filler complications can be difficult to diagnose without visualizing them. However, if there was some vascular compromise it would appear as dusky at first and then would appear as an open sore and can be quite painful. These are often very noticeable and can be corrected with the enzyme that dissolves the HA injected. Depending on the filler, the mass effect that it may create from its presence pressing on a vessel or nerve may lead to what you are experiencing. Sometimes (depending on the filler) it could also just be some inflammation or the filler expanding because it absorbs some surrounding water. I would reach out to the provider that injected you and have them take a look. In the meanwhile, a hot compress and some light massage should aid you in the resolution of your symptoms. 
Hope this helps!
George Gavrila, M.D.

Katherine A. Lane, MD · Answer

so sorry that you are having problems. usually necrosis would cause pain and a dusky appearing skin, followed by redness and crusting. if the filler is injected into a vessel that also serves the eye blindness is possible, and usually occurs at the time of injection - i dont believe that delayed embolism has been reported. 
sometimes filler can press on a vessel and cause symptoms, but again these should not appear some time after filler placement. is the area tender or red? 
the best thing to do would be to see you provider for an assessment.
good luck

Michelle Ellern, DO · Answer

If you are ever concerned, especially about impending necrosis, please go see your treating physician.  Good luck with your recovery.

Justin Harper, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi teganleigh24, If the filler was injected into a blood vessel, symptoms would be worse and you would either have blanching or purple lesions. Sometimes the filler injected presses on a blood vessels resulting to symptoms. Please see your doctor so he/she could inject hyaluronidase, as needed.All the best,Justin Harper, M.D.

Complications after dermal filler injection into nasolabial folds?

Answers (4)

Answer: Fillers and Hyaluronidase

Answer: Fillers and Hyaluronidase

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Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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Complications after dermal filler injection into nasolabial folds?

Answers (4)

Answer: Fillers and Hyaluronidase

Answer: Fillers and Hyaluronidase

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.