Can a steroid shot be used to break up an old bump from fillers years ago?

Question

Five years ago I got Juverderm fillers on my laugh lines. I got a bump in that area. Never went away. The new doctor I use said he can shoot a shot of steroids in it to see if it will break it up. Hyaluronidase did not work. Is that something doctors do? Could I end up with an indentation if it breaks up? I did not want to give him the go ahead until I get feedback on here. Thank you

Michael J. Weinberg, MD · Answer

Thanks for this
question.
A bump ( nodule ) that’s been
there for 5 years is likely a scar now. It will be tough to remove. Steroid
injection at a very low dose are commonly used for filler nodules. They can be
effective five and certainly worth a try, despite how long it’s been since the
previous injection.

Orna Fisher, MD · Answer

A long-standing bump due to a filler injection  is either a granuloma or a scar.  Your surgeon’s suggestion to try a steroid injection is a very legitimate. It may or may not work and may require more than one treatment.  The important thing is that it is a small amount injected only into the scar in order to avoid side effects to the surrounding tissues.

John J. Martin, Jr., MD · Answer

We have had good success treating these with Ulthera.  The heat of the ultrasound can help to break up the fibrosis in the nodule so that it is softer and may shrink in size.  This can be combined with low dose steroid (to prevent a depression) and some 5-FU.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

A steroid injection by an experienced board certified plastic surgeon may help improve the area that concerns you.  After five years this area is likely scar tissue which can be treated with steroids.  Be sure to discuss what you can expect in terms of results with your physician.

Alix J. Charles, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  I have successfully used intralesional kenalog to improve long lasting post-filler nodules in a few patients whom I've seen who had a lump that lasted longer than was expected. Best of luck to you!

Glow Med Spa - Encino · Answer

Hello!
Thank you for your question. What you have is most likely scar tissue, possibly from the injection site. Steroids are routinely injected into scar tissue to flatten them and make them less noticeable. If only a small amount is used it should work very well. 
Best of Luck 
Glow Med Spa Encino

Can a steroid shot be used to break up an old bump from fillers years ago?

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