Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation 2 years after filler injection, can/will this ever go away completely? (photo)

Question

I had tear through fillers to reduce appearance of malar bags january 2016, but they only made them bigger. Had 1 treatment of hyaluronidase in April 2016 to reverse it. Had the discolouration ever since the first round of injections. Derm said it's PIH and I've used hydroquinone for 3 months and no improvement. It's a very mild hyperpigmentation, but I think it's dermal. It's only under 1 eye, the left eye resolved. Can it be completely removed, or am I left with this dark circle for life?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

hemosiderin deposition can be improved with peels, vascular lasers and PRP. I suggest seeing an expert.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Shaun Patel, MD · Answer

I'm not sure I am seeing what you are seeing on the photo you provided. Superficially placed filler could result in blue-gray discoloration called Tyndall effect and this could be treated by dissolving the fillers. If there is PIH, then it should respond to hydroquinone or chemical peels although most PIH resolved on its own over the first few months to year after treatment. I think you need to followup with a local physician for a more complete evaluation. Of course, if the darkness under your eyes is related to volume loss (i.e. dark circles), then it would improve with correct filler placement.

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation 2 years after filler injection, can/will this ever go away completely? (photo)

Answers (2)