Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections (Photo)

Question

I developed a granuloma from filler the size of a golf ball my injector then started treatment with steroid injections the first 2 were fine but the last one was kenelog and caused a massive effect , huge dent ( size of a ten cent piece ) and horrible purple discolouration my injector days it will fill in with time a consulted a board certified plastic surgeon which disagreed and what's to start fat transfer but waiting it out for the steroid to leave my body what would be the best advice

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This will need fillers or fat to improve unforunately.  I suggest seeking a facial sculpting expert for treatment.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photograph.  One of the side effects of steroid treatment includes fat atrophy, thinning of skin, and telangiectasia (small blood vessel) formation.  I am sorry to see what has happened after your treatments and do think that some degree of fat grafting will likely be required to try and improve the contour irregularity.  Allow your results to fully mature over the next couple of months and once stable, seek treatment.  Best of wishes.

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

In my opinion, many people with steroid atrophy return to normal within six to nine months without any additional treatment. Should this not be the case, there are a few treatment methods that are helpful. Subcision, saline injections, filler injections, as well as fat transfer. The discoloration is best treated with a laser. It is possible to combine subcision with a filler or fat. The combined treatment often gives a better result. Seek physicians who have experience . Ask to see photos. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Stacey Folk, MD · Answer

Dear princessberni,Fat transfer sounds like a great option for improving this area, and starting too early might be disappointing. After 1-2 months from the steroid injection I would probably get started. I would also think about using hydroquinone to prep your skin then try some phototherapy (IPL or BBL) to improve the skin color. It will likely take a couple on injections, but it shouldn't be to difficult to have done or heal from.Huge bummer to have this happen, but there is a good chance for success here.Best of luck,

Christopher D. Knotts, MD, FACS · Answer

Fat grafting is a great treatment once you are sure the depressed area is permanent. Since it's still too early to tell, you could consider serial saline injections while you wait to see if your body naturally fills in the area. Hope that helps!CDK

Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections (Photo)

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Answer: Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections

Answer: Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections (Photo)

Answer: Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections (Photo)

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Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections (Photo)

Answers (5)

Answer: Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections

Answer: Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections

Answer: Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections (Photo)

Answer: Huge dent and discolouration from steroid injections (Photo)

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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.