Face swollen 2-3 months after Radiesse injections used to lift cheeks.

Question

I had normal swelling after the injections for about a week or so. Loved the results once the swelling went away. Out of the blue, I woke up last week with my face swollen all over again, as if I just had my face injected. It's been 2-3 months, and it isn't going down. Trying to figure out why and what I can do for the swelling to go away? Thanks.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Radiesse is a stimulatory filler that is an excellent option for patients who desire a longer-lasting filler alternative to hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. In our office, we use Radiesse to complement structural areas of the face and contour bony prominences. Our office also is a center of excellence for filler complication treatments and we see patients who have been treated by other doctors and have undesirable results from Radiesse or other long-lasting fillers. We have treatment options available for Radiesse filler nodules, granulomas, and soft tissue thickening. The first step would be to diagnose the nodularity and determine whether there is an option for surgical vs. non-surgical removal. Surgical excision is a possibility in some patients; whereas others with more diffuse fillers may benefit from intralesional therapy using scar modulators and enzymes and kenalog. Radiesse complications may be long-lasting and prompt action is key. Patients who have no access to an expert in the field should begin gentle massage of the areas of nodularity with Plato’s Scar Serum twice daily. RF and invasive lasers can actually do more damage by stimulating further collagen growth. 
 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Alim R. Devani, MD, FRCPC · Answer

There are a few possibilities but ask your injector to
consider the following: Persitent brusing and swelling from the injections
itself, persistent filler material, inflammatory nodules, granulomas and
possible infection as a cause. Need an opinion from an expert injector. I would
suggest to them consider injecting hyaluronidase or steroids into the area or
possible surgical consultation if it doesn't resolve after some time. Might be
worth starting an antibiotic to cover your basis but difficult to advice
without seeing the patient in person and knowing what was injected. If it is
persistent or you are worried, set up a follow up appointment with your
dermatologist.

Christian N. Ford, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Sorry to hear about the symptoms that you are experiencing.  New swelling 2-3 months after Radiesse injection is very unusual.  The swelling may or may not be related to the filler.  I would advise you to see your injector for an in-person reevaluation in order to best address your concerns and to determine the best course of action.  Best wishes!

Matthew Elias, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You need to follow up with your physician who injected you as there may be many reasons for the swelling.  Its possible it is related to the filler, but it may be coincidental.  First and foremost infection will need to be ruled out as well biofilm should be considered.  Delayed reactions to fillers have been reported.  A careful and thorough evaluation will need to be performed.  Regards, Dr. Matt Elias

Face swollen 2-3 months after Radiesse injections used to lift cheeks.

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Face swollen 2-3 months after Radiesse injections used to lift cheeks.

Answers (4)

Answer: Face swelling...

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Everything you need to know about Radiesse

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