Would filler be a good options for cortisone atrophy/indent in forehead? (Photos)

Take a breath. Help is on the way. Subcision, which I have personally been performing for nearly thirty years with gratifying results, is a simple,inexpensive and proven safe and effective means for elevating and smoothing indentations from all causes. It is often combined with the use of an HA Filler for added benefit. You would be wise to consult with a board certified cosmetic dermatologist. Hope this helps and Best of luck.

Here are some considerations regarding the use of fillers for cortisone-induced indentations:

Understanding Cortisone Atrophy
Cortisone atrophy occurs when the steroid injection causes localized thinning of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, leading to an indentation. This is a known side effect and can sometimes resolve on its own over time, but the duration can vary widely among individuals.

Saline Injections
Saline injections are often used to help stimulate the body's healing process and may help in some cases. However, as you've experienced, they might not always provide significant improvement, especially in a short period.

Use of Fillers
Fillers can be an effective temporary solution for cortisone-induced indentations. Here are some points to consider:

1. Timing:
- Generally, it's advisable to wait a bit longer before opting for fillers. The skin and tissue can continue to recover from cortisone atrophy for several months, sometimes up to 6 months or more. However, if the indent is causing significant distress and hasn't shown signs of improvement, some dermatologists might consider fillers sooner.
- At 5-6 weeks, it might still be early, but given the emotional impact and lack of improvement with saline injections, it could be reasonable to consult with a dermatologist experienced in cosmetic procedures to evaluate the potential benefits and risks of using fillers at this stage.

2. Type of Filler:
- Hyaluronic acid fillers (such as Juvederm or Restylane) are commonly used for this purpose because they are temporary and can be dissolved if necessary. They provide immediate volume and can help smooth out the indentation.
- The choice of filler and the technique used will depend on the specific characteristics of your skin and the depth of the indentation.

3. Professional Evaluation:
- It's crucial to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified dermatologist or a cosmetic specialist. They can assess the severity of the atrophy, discuss the potential benefits and risks of fillers, and determine the best course of action.
- They might also explore other options, such as microneedling or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which can help stimulate collagen production and improve skin texture over time.

Recommendations:
1. **Consultation**: Schedule a detailed consultation with a dermatologist who has experience in treating cortisone atrophy and cosmetic procedures. They can provide a personalized recommendation based on your specific situation.

2. **Consider Alternatives**: Discuss other potential treatments that might aid in the natural healing process, such as microneedling or PRP, which might be beneficial in conjunction with or instead of fillers.

3. **Mental Health Support**: Given the distress this issue is causing, consider seeking support from a mental health professional. They can help you manage the emotional impact while you work on the physical resolution.

In summary, while fillers can be a good option for addressing cortisone atrophy, it's essential to have a professional evaluation to determine the appropriate timing and approach for your specific case.