I don't want to dissolve my filler, are there options to help with filler edema/water retention?

Question

I really like how my upper eye (right below brow bone) looks when I am not experiencing fluid retention. This seems to really spike up around my time of the month and I look puffy. Usually also when I wake up. When I am not swollen, it looks perfect. How can I resolve this issue? It's been 2 1/2 years now. Should I do a lymphatic drainage massage? Take Arnica every day? Low salt diet? Any other options to help besides hyaluronidase? I don't want to dissolve it because it looks good when not puffy.

Mahmood Siddique, DO · Answer

Most fillers that are made of hyaluronic acid do attract water. If a patient is prone to water retention, they may notice swelling in the areas that have been treated. In that case, doctors suggest avoiding a diet that is high in salt and processed foods. If necessary, doctors may prescribe a low dose diuretic. A gentle lymphatic massage may help with swelling. Hyaluronic acid attracts and binds to water easily, therefore the water must be prevented in the first place. Additionally, a low sodium diet and plenty of rest will definitely help a lot.

Thomas Wright, MD · Answer

Yes lymphatic massage can help. I have a similar issue myself, actually and I take a natural diuretic. Fresh pineapple can be eaten to reduce water retention too. I also find using an electric cleansing brush twice a day helps a ton. Daily antihistimine is also beneficial. Filler can disolved with an enzyme if it is an HA.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

As your fluid retention seems to be cyclical it is a good idea to maintain a healthy, low sodium diet and try to get plenty of rest.  Bromelain is a supplement that is helpful for some to control swelling.

Kristen B. Williams, MD, MPH · Answer

Thanks for your question! This is a very interesting and thoughtful question! It is true that most fillers are made of hyaluronic acid which does attract water. Therefore if you are prone to water retention, you may notice swelling in areas that have been treated. Avoiding a diet high in processed foods is a great place to start (always high in salt) and is what I would definitely recommend. Your doctor can prescribe a low dose diuretic if appropriate. You may or may not notice any benefit from gentle lymphatic massage. The trouble with that is the hyaluronic acid attracts and binds the water very well! So try to prevent the water in the first place! This is for information purposes only. I have never met or treated this patient and we have not established a physician patient relationship.

I don't want to dissolve my filler, are there options to help with filler edema/water retention?

Answers (4)

Answer: HA attracts water so anything that causes inflammation can theoretically make these areas swell

Answer: HA attracts water so anything that causes inflammation can theoretically make these areas swell

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Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

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

I don't want to dissolve my filler, are there options to help with filler edema/water retention?

Answers (4)

Answer: HA attracts water so anything that causes inflammation can theoretically make these areas swell

Answer: HA attracts water so anything that causes inflammation can theoretically make these areas swell

Browse related questions

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.