Dermal filler for large kenalog dimple

Hi there,
I’m so sorry you’re going through this — what you’re describing sounds very uncomfortable and understandably distressing. Kenalog (triamcinolone) is a corticosteroid, and when inadvertently injected into subcutaneous fat or muscle, it can cause localized atrophy — leading to the kind of indentation and tenderness you’re experiencing.

You’re absolutely right that the pain may be from the loss of both fat and some surrounding tissue integrity. Unfortunately, this type of reaction can continue to evolve for weeks to months before stabilizing. Once the process settles, there are options to help restore volume and improve the appearance.

Here’s what to know about possible treatments:

Dermal filler: Hyaluronic acid fillers can temporarily restore contour, but they are not permanent. They may last several months to a year and can be repeated as needed. They typically do not migrate when injected properly into stable tissue by an experienced provider.

Fat grafting: This can be a more permanent option once the atrophy has stabilized. It uses your own fat, offering a more natural and lasting correction.

Sculptra (poly-L-lactic acid): This biostimulatory filler helps rebuild collagen gradually and may offer a longer-term improvement compared to standard fillers.

PRP or PRF therapy: In some cases, platelet-rich plasma or fibrin can help improve healing and tissue quality in the area.

For now, avoid any additional steroid injections in that region and allow the tissue to stabilize before proceeding with a corrective procedure. In most cases, combining approaches — such as Sculptra followed by fat grafting — can yield the most natural, lasting results.

There are a few options that may give you improvement. Treatments such as Morpheus8 or SkinPen can improve the appearance of small irregularities in the skin contour. For deeper crevices you can consider fat grafting to the area. HA fillers are an option but would be temporary. See a board certified plastic surgeon near you for an evaluation.

Hi! It’s not uncommon to experience this after a steroid injection for some people. In our clinic, we like to utilize Renuva injection for correction of fat atrophy. This product is turned into fat by your body over months and can be a permanent solution to this problem. You may need to be reassessed for additional Renuva injection after some time to achieve the goal of filling the void from the steroid shot.Good luck!