Can you go blind after filler with Juvaderm to nasolabial folds?

Question

I had filler to my nasolabial fold 7 days ago and read that it cause blindness which made me freak out big time and I need some answers: 1) can filler migrate from the nasolabial folds, or put prolonged pressure on arteries that will result in blindeness? 2) How long after you had the filler injected are you of risk of skin necrosis? can the filler 'expand' and cause necrosis after some time? if this is the case I think I want to remove it. help!

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It is rare for fillers placed in this area to cause blindness. The majority of cases are when the filler is placed around the eyes.  I suggest you get cannula injections of fillers for the best and safest results.  Dr. Emer.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

It is rare for fillers placed in this area to cause blindness. The majority of cases are when the filler is placed around the eyes.  I suggest you get cannula injections of fillers for the best and safest results.

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Ingridada,Blindness after fillers is a very rare complication.  The reason it can develop is unlike the legs where there are little valves that make sure blood only goes one way, in the face these do not exist.  If filler is placed into a blood vessel it can go backwards and travel to the vessels that supply the eye.  This occurs more commonly when injections are placed around the eye or between the eyes.  However, it can occur when injecting the folds around the mouth.  The reason is there is a blood vessel that is near that area which then travels up the side of the nose towards the eye.  I have heard discussions at meetings of this happening.  It would be instantaneous so if you left the office ok, you have nothing to worry about.  The filler will not migrate to a new location and enter into a blood vessel and cause this problem.  Ways to minimize this risk include avoiding injections in certain areas, having an experienced injector with knowledge of the anatomy to try to avoid hitting the blood vessel, and even using blunt tipped cannulas instead of sharp tipped cannulas since the blunt ones will not penetrate a blood vessel.  They are also less likely to cause bruising which is an added bonus. With regards to skin necrosis, this should happen within the first week.  The area at greatest risk is between the eyes trying to fill in the vertical 1s.  It happens here because as the filler is injected, it compresses the blood vessels.  Without the blood supply the skin can begin to necrose.  It can also happen if the blood vessel is injected directly.  This is more common around the lips where the blood vessels are located closer to the surface.  Early signs is significant pain in the area of injection that is worsening.  I hope this helps and good luck.

Can you go blind after filler with Juvaderm to nasolabial folds?

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Can you go blind after filler with Juvaderm to nasolabial folds?

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Everything you need to know about Juvederm

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