Lingering Numbness and Vision Problems After Radiesse?

Question

I had Radiesse injections in my cheeks about 20 hours ago. Left side of my face still numb, vision distorted- particularly when I look up and to the left. My doctor says it is swelling and will go away. I want this to be true. I'm very very frightened that my vision has been permanently damaged. This is affecting my every move and thought. Know of this happening to others??

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

I agree with Dr Nayak, It may just be swelling but it is prudent to treat this as a medical emergency until you are seen by an ophthalmologist and a thorough eye exam is done. There are blood vessels and nerves in the cheek that could be pressed or occluded.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Any alterations in visual acuity after injection should be treated with extreme vigilance.  Numbness can be the result of local anesthetic injected with the filler.

Laxmeesh Mike Nayak, MD · Answer

Short term lip numbess is normal. Numbness 20 hours later, by itself, isn't normal, but would likely be self-limited.

	 

	Visual changes, however, demand an eye exam and fundoscopy on an emergency basis. See an ophthalmologist - or visit the ER - immediately.

Cameron Rokhsar, MD, FAAD · Answer

Numbness after any sort of injection is absolutely normal. Vision change is not. I am not sure that the vision change is related to the injection, but I highly recommend you consult an opthamologist immediately. Sight changes are nothing to wait around for.

Michael Bowman, MD · Answer

The numbness in your cheek hopefully will come back. This is a known, but uncommon complication of Radiesse injection in that area. I would recommend evaluation immediately by your eye doctor for your complaints of double vision. It would be very unusual to have any sort of permanent vision problems after a Radiesse injection, but there is no reason to take chances with your vision. I wish you well.

Lingering Numbness and Vision Problems After Radiesse?

Answers (5)