How common is it for lip filler to migrate into the philtrum? Does it reflect poor technique or bad luck?

Question

I'm interested in getting Restalyne lip filler. But I'm concerned about the potential side effect of having the lip filler unintentionally shift into the philtrum. How common is it for lip filler to migrate into the philtrum? Does it reflect poor technique or bad luck?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Lip fillers that are properly placed should not migrate.  It is important to select an experienced injector for your treatment.  Be sure to discuss your goals for how you would like your lips enhanced.

Michael A. Persky, MD · Answer

Hi Red,Not to worry, properly placed filler in your lip will not migrate into your philtrim, at least in 25 years of lip injection experience I have never seen it in any of my patients.  As with any aesthetic procedure, choosing your treating physician is your most important task.  Good luck and be well.Dr. PEncino, CA

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

I have been injecting lips and the surrounding areas for over three decades since the early days with the original Zyderm & Zyplast collagen fillers. Nowadays, hyaluronic acid fillers are available to augment the body of the red lips; better define the vermilion borders and to create or enhance the philtrum. Each being a different region typically requires a different filler made for that region. In the case of the red lips I typically choose Juvederm Ultra Plus XC for the body of the lips in my NY practice and Saypha Volume for this purpose in my Israel satellite facility, where a far greater number of regulatory agency approved fillers and volumizers are available. Properly injected into the body of lips, these products stay there until they are eventually metabolized away naturally typically over the course of a year's time. Filler migration into the surrounding areas, including the philtrum would be quite unusual. What I can say is that it is very important to do your due diligence when vetting a potential injector. You would be wise to make certain that you are consulting with a board certified aesthetic physician and that you insist upon seeing his/her personal before and after photos before agreeing to proceed. In a recent survey conducted by the American Society of Dermatologic Surgery of its members,  it was found that "Of all the complications encountered in the past two years, the majority reported that the percentage of complications seen in their practice attributed to medical spas ranged from 61% to 100%." And "the most commonly cited treatments resulting in complications were fillers..."-- with the survey specifically noting "misplacement of product." You might consider having the philtral filler dissolved with hyaluronidase after which your lips may be appropriately treated. Wishing the best of luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear redringpop5,
I typically use Juvederm for my lip sculpting. There are two main focuses of lip injections, adding volume and actually sculpting the shape. Both involve injecting the filler in different areas of the lips and patterns.
I would recommend finding a plastic surgeon to perform you lip injections. Most of my patients have results that last at least 6 months.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Dmitriy Schwarzburg, MD · Answer

When injected properly, lip filler should not migrate into the philtrum, unless the injection was in the philtrum itself as part of the treatment goal. Make sure you go to the doctor who personally injects and has done a lot of injections with excellent results.

How common is it for lip filler to migrate into the philtrum? Does it reflect poor technique or bad luck?

Answers (7)

Answer: Lip augmentation

Answer: Lip augmentation

Answer: Lip filler migration

Answer: Lip filler migration

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Restylane

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

How common is it for lip filler to migrate into the philtrum? Does it reflect poor technique or bad luck?

Answers (7)

Answer: Lip augmentation

Answer: Lip augmentation

Answer: Lip filler migration

Answer: Lip filler migration

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Restylane

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