Restylane in tear trough, sudden swelling. Is it possible that my body suddenly broke down the Restylane?

Thank you for sharing your question. Your inflammation was probably not related to the Restylane in your tear troughs. You might have had an allergic process for some other reason. It is probably coincidence that the filler started to dissolve. See an expert injector for further evaluation in person.Good luck,

Given that many months have passed, this is not likely related to the filler injection.   It is more likely to have been an allergic reaction, insect bite, or infection.  It is possible that residual swelling is masking the filler's presence; however, a large inflammatory reaction could theoretically affect the filler by increasing breakdown.

I would definitely return to my treating physician for examination. It is possible that you have an allergic reaction or an infection that may need attention.  Consider Belotero in the future. Best, Dr. Green

While I have not heard of this, I suppose it could be possible.  These fillers take on water as they dissolve. It could have also been a bug bite, or some other reaction as well.

Thank you for your question.  Delayed swelling after fillers like Restylane and Juvederm is extremely rare.  Please follow up with your board certified Dermatologist/PS for further evaluation and management and to make sure you did not have an infection that requires oral antibiotics.  Regards, Dr. Matt Elias

Dear kpropp,

Restylane is one of the Hyaluronic
acid sugar gel family products such as Juvederm, Teosyal, Restylane, Perlane
and Belotero. These simple gels have
different cross-linking strategies and are generally well tolerated by the
body. Occasionally, the body is
sensitized to the cross-linker or a contaminant viral infection or inflammation
in the sinuses can lead to inflammation in the product even several months
out. This delayed immunologic response
to a filler is more common with the Vycross technology in a Juvederm, Voluma
and VolumaLift family and happen in the Restylane family, as well. The temporary nature of the swelling would
indicate if there was sensitivity that it was mild and the increased inflammation
may have accelerated the breakdown of the Restylane product which is usually
good for 6-8 month in the tear trough.

I would certainly consult with your
injection physician to discuss your concerns and have a physical examination
and the options for volumizing the tear trough using another HA filler, the
same Restylane product family or even fat grafting can be discussed.

I hope this information is of some
assistance and best of luck.

R. Stephen Mulholland, M.D.

Certified Plastic Surgeon

Yorkville, Toronto