Bruising and swollen 3 weeks after Juvederm/Volbella under eyes. Is this normal? (photo)

There can sometimes be prolonged swelling and bruising under the eyes after injections. If it persists, I recommend following up with your injector. It can be reversed with hyaluronidase and you can try a different technique next time. I recommend injections with cannulas to limit bruising and swelling. See an expert. Best, Dr, Emer

Thank you for sharing your question and photograph.  Because of its composition Juvederm can cause some prolonged undereye swelling, and if you had significant bleeding at the time of treatment the blood and filler can mix resulting in prolonged bruising.  If you see little improvement over the next week you may wish to consider dissolving the filler.  Voice your concerns to your injector. 

In general, bruising and swelling is to be expected but it typically resolves within two weeks. However, every patient heals at her own rate. I would suggest that you schedule an appointment with your injector to have this assessed in person. Always best to err on the side of caution. 

Thank you for
your question Jll0112. I am sorry to hear about your situation. Volbella
is a hyaluronic acid filler designed to enhance the lips. It can also be used in other areas off-label. Swelling and bruising are normal for 2 weeks after a treatment. I recommend that my patients apply cold compresses such as ice packs to decrease swelling. We have patients return 2 weeks after their treatment to assess the results. If swelling persists further massage is sometimes performed. We treat bruises with a laser as early as the next day. This makes the bruise resolve more quickly. Please
consult with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Thanks for your question and the photo – it is helpful.  We always recommend that these injections be given in the offices of a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon as we are the true experts in the use of these products.  While we don’t want swelling and bruising with our injections, they are possible and usually the swelling is complete 2 weeks after the injection.  Bruising as well can occur, and the fact that you are still bruised and still having swelling at this time would suggest that you need to go back to your injector and perhaps have hyaluronidase injected to dissolve it, perhaps even a vascular laser done to treat the bruise – if it is stable and not enlarging any more, and then begin again.  Good luck.