What are the effects of longterm repeated facial filler treatment?

Question

I use a conservative amount (never more than one syringe) about every 11 months for volume loss in my cheek/under eye area. I love the results and have never had issues. I’d like to keep using filler forever. But one doctor recently told me that it isn’t a good idea because the long term effects are not known. Is there any information on this? What’s the longest recorded use of facial filler?

Gregory A. Buford, MD, FACS · Answer

I will politely disagree 100% with your doctor.  I have been using fillers for over 18 years and have participated on the launch of several HA products and so understand the science as well as the long-term effects.  To say that they may not be safe is ridiculous.  While various cross-linking agents used in the HA fillers do not necessarily occur naturally, the base product (hyaluronic acid) does but we lose it as we age.  Using fillers is safe but you need to make sure that you understand the background and training of whomever will be injecting you.  Make sure that you go with someone who is an MD/DO/RN/PA.  These are the training backgrounds that will provide safe and optimal outcomes.  I hope this helps and wish you the very best!Warmest regards,-Gregory A Buford MD FACS PCEOBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon and AuthorCertified Allergan National MASTER Facial Injectables Trainer

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

I doubt that repetitive conservative filler procedures would lead to a long term problem. If you are using temporary gel fillers like HA, it's best to ensure your doctor is expert in noting and treating vascular occlusion. That risk is small, but is present with every treatment you receive. Hope this helps. Dr Joseph

Navin K. Singh, MD · Answer

There are no negative long term effects related to filler. The nice thing about filler is that they are biodegradable and dissolvable.

Joyce Davis, MD · Answer

I have injected temporary facial fillers since they became FDA approved.  That's approximately 30 years ago, starting with Bovine Collagen.  They have been reliably used and not caused any long term problems.  If you are worried about "stretching out the skin", that hasn't happened.Find yourself a board certified cosmetic dermatologist and you should do fine.  Enjoy the benefits of looking younger and more rested so easily!

What are the effects of longterm repeated facial filler treatment?

Answers (4)

Answer: Long term use of injectable fillers

Answer: Long term use of injectable fillers

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What are the effects of longterm repeated facial filler treatment?

Answers (4)

Answer: Long term use of injectable fillers

Answer: Long term use of injectable fillers

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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.