Should chin filler hurt over a year later? (Photos)

Question

I had HA fillers a year and a half ago. The were placed superficially in the chin and cheeks where I already had type 1 rosacea. I instantly reacted with swelling and flushing. They were micro dissolved. There’s still a patch of Restalyne Defyne in my chin that didn’t dissolve. There’s discomfort in the spot.nI would have thought they would have absorbed by now. Should I continue to wait it out? It’s been almost 18 months.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing the images. I understand how frustrating and uncomfortable this situation must be.

When hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers like Restylane Defyne are placed superficially, especially in sensitive areas like the chin or over rosacea-prone skin, there can be an increased risk of prolonged inflammation or reactivity. If you’re still experiencing discomfort and noticing a residual lump nearly 18 months after the procedure, this may indicate incomplete breakdown of the filler, low-grade chronic inflammation, or the development of a granuloma or biofilm.

Pain or persistent sensitivity this long after injection is not typical and may warrant further evaluation. At this point, I would not recommend simply waiting it out. I would suggest the following next steps:

Consultation with a dermatologist or facial aesthetics expert — preferably someone experienced in managing filler complications.

Imaging such as ultrasound may help determine whether filler remains and guide additional hyaluronidase treatment if needed.

Patch testing or assessment for underlying rosacea flare or possible delayed hypersensitivity could also be helpful if the area continues to flare.

In many cases, even stubborn filler remnants can be safely addressed, and your comfort and skin health can be restored with the right care.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

If you feel that you had Improvement after hyaluronidase to dissolve your filler, and that there is still some remaining, you could certainly consult with your doctor about the feasibility of using the dissolving enzyme in the area that you are concerned about. Other option would be to try a dilute triamcinolone acetamide injection to see if that might reduce inflammation and discomfort. I hope this helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Fillers should not be causing discomfort this long after treatment.  Return to your injector for an evaluation.  If filler is the cause of the contour irregularity you can have the remaining Restylane dissolved.

Should chin filler hurt over a year later? (Photos)

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