I had my lips filled with juvaderm for the first time 3 days ago. (I have two autoimmune diseases (collagenose- not further specified, and hashimoto) except for one spot on my upper lip it's healed fine, apart from bruising. that spot is super swollen, hard,terribly painful and I'm pretty sure it's infected. I don't know what to do, should I take antibiotics, should I wait, or antibiotic cream? I am russia right now, so going to a doctor will not be an option for me. please help what are the risks.
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Thank you for submitting your question. I would go see you physician or a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in the country you are visiting, esp. with the pain ypur describing. It is hard to diagnosis without an examination and photo is limited. Best wishes.
Dr. Jeff Angobaldo, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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It is common to get swelling after fillers into the lips. It is not normal to have irregularities or severe swelling. If you are unhappy you should speak to your physician and have the area injected with hyaluronidase, an enzyme that reverses the hyaluronic acid filler. For the next injections, consider Restylane Silk with cannula injection, this technique will limit the pain, swelling or bruising after the filler placement. It often takes up to two weeks for swelling to subside on its own. It is likely this is not an infection. Find an expert in filler injections for your future treatments. Best, Dr. Emer.
Dr. Jason Emer, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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Dear Sashabanks, From your description of swelling and extreme pain you may be developing a cold sore in the region of the injection and should be put on medication like (Valtrex). Juvederm injections In patients who have a susceptibility to cold sores should be pre-treated with medication to avoid these possible complications. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.
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It is hard to tell if that site is infected or just overfilled. You will need to see a physician in person for proper diagnosis. I know you said you are in Russia, and I don't know when you are returning to your country, but please see an expert as soon as possible. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."