I just had injected Bellafill and my cheeks are swollen can I use ice to take down the swelling?

Filler migration and granuloma formation can cause longterm problems with Bellafill and Artefill fillers. This is similar in patients who have Artecoll and PMMA fillers. Longterm filler complications include migration, edema, chronic swelling, and nodularity. If patients have filler migration or nodules, we recommend a combination approach of filler reversal with enzymes, corticosteroids, and scar tissue modulators. Our HIDEF approach can break down filler scarring and granulomas so that they are less apparent. If the filler material itself does not dissolve, it either means the filler is likely not HA material or is unresponsive to conservative therapy. This technique may be followed by surgical removal of the filler if there is a suitable target for removal and the chance of scarring is low.

Surgical removal of Bellafill is possible and we have a wide ranging experience with the treatment. Some areas of the face can be treated because the Bellafill removal scars are barely visible. We have found that Bellafill nodules, if palpated, can be removed from the tissue. Undereye Bellafill, nasolabial fold Bellafill, and lip filler can be treated successfully. Diffuse Bellafill is difficult to treat.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hi and thank you for your question! Swelling is very common following filler injection and while it is self-limiting, ice can also help specially right after the procedure. Some patients experience more swelling on the 2nd day (that's when we tend to get the frantic calls!) but swelling alone is not a concern and it will gradually goes down within days. I hope it helps and good luck! 

Swelling will last 1-2 weeks after injections. Icing, cold compresses and ibuprofen can give improvement. Keep in mind, it can take several months for final results with Bellafill. Best, Dr. Emer