Restylane injection gone wrong? (photos)

Question

I had my first ever cosmetic procedure done around my mouth. The injections did feel slightly painful but I was barely bleeding and no swelling. It did feel uncomfortable when I smiled. Within days I had about 3 hard lumps that didn’t seem to go away. I followed up with my doctor and she seemed clueless on what was going on. I use to get cystic pimples but that was years ago! I did smoke cigarettes a few days after, did I do something to create this mess? Was it the doctor? Help!!!!!

Kenneth D. Steinsapir, MD · Answer

The filler if it is restylane should be broken down and removed with Hyaluronidase.  Be certain what the product was.  Certain products are prone to this including semipermanent fillers that can train to the skin. If this truly was Restylane, the lesion represents an indolent infection and that can be caused by atypical mycobacterium. I recommend seeing a board certified dermatologist.  Avoid having the site biopsies if at all possible.  A biopsy will provide information on what is going on but it will cause disfiguring scaring.  Dissolving the product if it is a hyaluronic acid filler and oral antibiotic are needed heal.  Please get the care you need.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. From your photos, this appears to be an infection and needs immediate care. If HA filler was injected it can be dissolved with an enzyme known as hyaluronidase. I recommend having a follow up right away with your injector for an evaluation. Best of Luck!

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