I want to get lip fillers but I have been using hydrocortisone cream on the skin around my lips for 2 years.

Question

I’m thinking of getting lip fillers but I am worried as I have been using hydrocortisone creamaround my lips for about 2 years due to a rash I had that wouldn’t go away. Would you recommend not getting them done? What could happen if I got them done?

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

The answer will depend upon your current situation. If your rash has resolved, and you've been off the cream for a while it should be no problem to get the fillers. If the rash is still there then first we'd have to determine what caused that rash and how to appropriately treat it.  Hydrocortisone can thin skin, but fillers are placed deep and again, if the rash has resolved, the injection should be fine.

Pamela Stuart, MD · Answer

Cic1234-You should first be evaluated by a medical dermatologist to determine the cause of your long term rash. I would not recommend getting any fillers until you have been seen, evaluated and treated for the cause of this rash. After that, you should be able to proceed with fillers but your dermatologist should identify and treat your medical issue prior to beginning the use of fillers to this area.Best wishes,

Michael H. Gold, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I would strongly recommend that you visit with a dermatologist first to find out why you have had a rash for two years around the mouth. Get it treated and then, once it is gone, proceed with your lip injections.  We want the “field” to be as clear as possible, and having a rash there would be something that I would want gone before injecting any of my patients in the lips.

Amy Miller, MD · Answer

Actually, it may be beneficial to get some lip filler.  Over time hydrocortisone can thin your skin by causing collagen degeneration.  It might be good to help stimulate collagen production with a dermal filler to your lip area.  I would recommend stopping the hydrocortisone asap.  It would probably be best to start with a small amount of filler, say 1/2 a syringe, and add more filler gradually if you like the effect.  Some possible side effects could include unevenness or lumpiness of the the filler (which can be treated), bruising and swelling, and something called the tyndal effect which causes a bluish hue to the skin and can occur in thinned skinned areas.  
I hope this is helpful information.
Best,
Dr. Amy

I want to get lip fillers but I have been using hydrocortisone cream on the skin around my lips for 2 years.

Answers (4)