2 mths after HA fillers in my cheeks, I'm very puffy/lumpy. I think this is water retention secondary to HA filler. Help.

Question

I have tried every type of HA filler even Voluma. It's 2 months post Restalyn injections in my cheeks and every morning my tear trough area is significantly swollen. It dissipates throughout the day but still remains puffy in areas that were not injected (close to my nose, lower part of my cheek and tear thoughs). Is this water retention? What can I do to minimize this? What fillers do not attract water? Post injections my cheeks looked great for the first week and then this started happening.

Misbah Khan MD, FAAD, FACMS · Answer

persistent swelling after HA based fillers is very common. it usually goes away in 2-3 weeks. if this is a persistent problem and its not getting any better but is rather stable then i would advise you get the filler dissolved. I would do fat grafting for such patients. thats an option and perhaps you can look into that

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This can happen with HA fillers that absorb water. I suggest getting evaluated to ensure you do not have an inflammatory reaction or allergery.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Christina Steil, MD · Answer

Hello Nikki,All fillers can cause water retention if they obstruct the normal anatomy and prevent proper lymphatic drainage.  As you mentioned the fillers were not injected in these areas so likely that is the mechanism responsible for your swelling.  I do not believe that you are experiencing an allergy to the filler because you did not complain of redness, or erythema, in the area.You posted your photo for comment and so it appears you have too much filler in your cheeks. You should see a provider and talk with them about using some hyaluronidase to remove the excessive HA, which will hopefully improve your puffiness and swelling.Anti-aging is great.  We all want it.  But I think the best look is keeping yourself natural and balanced so that nobody knows your secret.  A little filler, fotofacials and occasional skin tightening will keep you looking really good, natural and will avoid the over-injected look and the complications that can result from using too much filler.Good luck.

2 mths after HA fillers in my cheeks, I'm very puffy/lumpy. I think this is water retention secondary to HA filler. Help.

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2 mths after HA fillers in my cheeks, I'm very puffy/lumpy. I think this is water retention secondary to HA filler. Help.

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Everything you need to know about Restylane

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