Can lumpy, uneven Restylane injections on my cheekbones be fixed or should they be dissolved? Do I need a better doctor? (Photo)

Question

Last month a plastic surgeon injected Restylane high on my cheekbone, under the outer corners of my eyes. The results are uneven and lumpy, especially just under the eyes. The Dr said that the lumps were probably caused by fat. But the cheeks were smooth before he injected me. He recommended adding more Restylane. Should I get the filler dissolved or can it be salvaged? I saved for a long time to have this done & want it to work out. Should I risk returning to this doctor or find someone else?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest seeing an expert in cheek augmentation. sometimes fillers can be used to improve this sometimes it needs to be reversed and then reinjected.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Evan Ransom, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question and the photos. It most likely that there is some unevenness in the distribution of the filler or that it may have been placed more closely to the surface than intended. The former problem can be helped with addition of filler around the area to smooth it out. The latter would require dissolving the filler that is present, waiting a bit, and then reinjecting. I perform a lot of filler treatments for the cheeks and lower eyelids, and this can certainly be a tricky area. The skin varies in thickness, some patients retain fluid, etc. A gradual approach is best, beginning with small amounts of filler and building over time. Take care and best of luck!

Alexander Rivkin, MD · Answer

Hi and thanks for your question. I can see what you are talking about, unfortunately. I agree with the other doctors posting here. You should seek another opinion. Cheek augmentation can be a really great procedure with smooth, natural results that last a long time. Years ago, Restylane was the only filler we had, so people would use it everywhere. Today we have a much better option for the cheeks with Voluma. It is a smooth filler that produces natural results that last for a year and a half or more. I would suggest you consult with an experienced injector where the main focus of their practice is non surgical aesthetics as opposed to someone who just does injections as a side activity to their surgical practice. Hope that helps.

Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

Looks like the restylane was probably injected too superficially, leaving you with bumps and irregularities. I would recommend another opinion. The product may have to be dissolved. I would use Restylane Lyft or Voluma in the cheeks.

Harold J. Kaplan, MD · Answer

Hi PB.  Sorry to hear about your situation.  If it's been a month since injections, it's likely that the product has settled where it's going to stay.  It does appear that you have some irregular contours and these may be fixable with more product or Hyaluronidase injections.  If you do not feel that your current injector was properly addressing your concerns, then maybe it is time to find a new one.  To see examples of Restylane injections under the eyes, click on the link below.

Can lumpy, uneven Restylane injections on my cheekbones be fixed or should they be dissolved? Do I need a better doctor? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Uneven Restylane To Cheeks

Answer: Uneven Restylane To Cheeks

Answer: Uneven Restylane Injections

Answer: Uneven Restylane Injections

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Can lumpy, uneven Restylane injections on my cheekbones be fixed or should they be dissolved? Do I need a better doctor? (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Uneven Restylane To Cheeks

Answer: Uneven Restylane To Cheeks

Answer: Uneven Restylane Injections

Answer: Uneven Restylane Injections

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.