Injector said she's never seen this before. Could it be a broken blood vessel after lip filler?

Question

I received 0.5 ml of filler 3x (Feb 2022, June 2022, May 2023). Over the past year, I have noticed a discolored area on my top lip, particularly when I smile. This only became very noticeable to me in mid to late 2023, but when I go back and look at pictures from earlier, I do see it earlier too. It seems like it has become darker over time and is now prominent in any photo I smile in. My provider said she has no idea what it is. Could it be a broken blood vessel, and would dissolving help?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

While it's difficult to diagnose without an in-person examination, the discolored area on your lip could be due to a variety of factors, including a broken blood vessel, a hematoma, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

A broken blood vessel could be a possibility, especially if the area is reddish or purplish in color. This could have been caused by the needle hitting a blood vessel during the filler injection. Over time, the blood from a broken vessel can darken, which might explain why the area has become more noticeable.

Dissolving the filler might help if the problem is related to the filler itself. However, it might not make a difference if the discoloration is due to a broken blood vessel or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Ultimately, it would be beneficial to consult with a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon who has experience with cosmetic fillers. They may be able to provide a more definitive diagnosis and suggest appropriate treatment options.

Please remember to provide them with a detailed history of your filler injections and the timeline of the discoloration. This will assist them in understanding the potential cause and devising a suitable management plan.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

It’s hard to tell from your pictures.
The most likely explanation would be the Tyndall effect. Other potential ideologies would include a mucocele or granuloma formation, though they seem more unlikely in this location.
Tyndall should have resolved by now.
Consider consulting with a general ENT doctor.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Injector said she's never seen this before. Could it be a broken blood vessel after lip filler?

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Injector said she's never seen this before. Could it be a broken blood vessel after lip filler?

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

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