How can I remove granulomas from my face due to Juvaderm filler?

Question

I had filler injected into my under eyes cheeks & lips in June 2020. All lumped up & became very swollen & rock hard. A few doctors agreed that it was mild granuloma. hyalase was injected into the area to remove granulomas which kind of worked. Now I have a few lumps in my lips, cheeks & under eyes but I'm being told that they're too small to remove. How can I go about this bc it has caused atrophy & I now need a fat graft. Is fat graft safe while they're still there? I'm only 23 and so stressed

Rita Rakus, MBBS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. We always recommend a face-to-face consultation for advice however from what you have provided here it is unusual to develop a true granuloma from HA filler- however the best course of action would be to see someone for a face to face examination to assess what is truly causing the issues.
I hope that helps, please always a seek a qualified and experienced practitioner for any cosmetic treatment, best wishes

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Before proceeding with other filling procedures, like fat grafting, consider resolving your persistent issues with bumps. Consider re-asking your question with photos that demonstrate your concerns. Hope this helps. Dr Joseph

Michael Bowman, MD · Answer

True granulomas are very unusual after any hyaluronic acid filler.  Hyaluronidase can be used to remove the offending filler, but sometimes the inflammation remains.  The situation may be complicated by allergic reaction or infection.  There are some treatment options which might be considered including a course of antibiotics, injectable steroids, oral steroids, etc.

Before jumping towards intervention, it is important to not lose sight of the big picture.  If these lumps are not visible, it may be better just to keep an eye on things rather than intervene (esp. with more injectable treatments or additional volume replacement options) and risk causing some other problem.    For the long term, I would think that fat grafting would be safe, provided the inflammation and infection has resolved. I would probably recommend a relatively lengthy observation period from your last intervention before you consider any other treatment.

This is obviously a very generic discussion of treatment options and it would be very important to tailor all recommendations to your specific situation.  I would seek consultation with multiple injection experts in your area.

Best wishes! MKB

How can I remove granulomas from my face due to Juvaderm filler?

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How can I remove granulomas from my face due to Juvaderm filler?

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Dermal Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.