Can HA filler be used to stretch the nasal tissue & increase healthy collagen and elastin?

Question

I had a rhinoplasty that left me with a short and over rotated nose. I now get hyaluronic acid filler to augment my nose's size. I'm curious, can HA filler be used to stretch the nasal tissue and increase healthy collagen and elastin? Or does it actually trigger fibrosis and harm the skin over time? I know that skin is sometimes stretched for surgery using saline--does filler do something similar? Thank you.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

HA fillers do stretch the skin a mild amount, but certainly not to the degree that will restore your nose to proportions it had prior to surgery. Given that the best option for returning the balance and length of your nose will be through revision rhinoplasty, weakening the blood supply of the skin with repeated injections (that will not create the aesthetic outcome desired) would not be advisable.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

We have seen HA fillers last for many years in peoples noses. I would not suggest regular HA injections since I believe eventually you will become overcorrected, or perhaps you could experience necrosis since your nose has been previously operated on. You may wish to consider re-asking you a question with photographs for the experts to lend an opinion. Thank you. Sincerely, Dr. Joseph

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. Hyaluronic acid (HA) filler can indeed be used to augment the size of the nose and address concerns related to a short or over-rotated nose following rhinoplasty. However, it's important to understand how HA filler interacts with nasal tissue. While HA filler can provide immediate volume and improve the appearance of the nose, it does not function in the same way as saline used for tissue expansion in surgical procedures. Saline is typically used to stretch the skin gradually, preparing it for surgical adjustments. HA filler, on the other hand, primarily adds volume and can offer temporary improvement, but its impact on collagen and elastin production is limited. Over time, HA filler can sometimes trigger a localized inflammatory response, which may lead to fibrosis (the formation of scar tissue) in some cases. This can potentially affect the skin's elasticity and texture if used excessively or improperly. However, when used judiciously, HA filler is generally safe and can provide aesthetic benefits without significant long-term harm. I hope this helps and best of luck!

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

Thank you for your question. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are commonly used in non-surgical rhinoplasty to augment the shape and size of the nose. Regarding your concerns:

Stretching Nasal Tissue: HA fillers can temporarily add volume and shape to the nasal area, which might give the appearance of stretched skin. However, this effect is primarily due to the added volume rather than a true stretching of the tissue.

Collagen and Elastin Production: HA fillers can stimulate collagen production to a certain extent. The injection process itself can cause minor trauma to the skin, which can lead to a natural healing response that includes collagen production. However, this is usually minimal and not the primary function of HA fillers.

Risk of Fibrosis: Chronic use of fillers can, in some cases, lead to fibrosis or the formation of scar tissue. This is more likely if fillers are used excessively or if there are complications from the injections. It's important to have these procedures done by a skilled and experienced practitioner to minimize risks.

Comparison to Saline Stretching: The use of saline to stretch the skin, often referred to as tissue expansion, is a different technique typically used in preparation for surgical procedures. HA fillers do not function in the same way. They provide immediate volume and contouring but do not permanently stretch the skin.

In summary, while HA fillers can provide temporary augmentation and might stimulate some collagen production, they are not designed to stretch the nasal tissue in the same way as tissue expansion techniques used in surgery. It’s essential to discuss your goals and concerns with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon to explore the best options for your specific needs.

Can HA filler be used to stretch the nasal tissue & increase healthy collagen and elastin?

Answers (4)

Answer: Understanding the Effects of HA Fillers on Nasal Tissue, Collagen, and Elastin Production

Answer: Understanding the Effects of HA Fillers on Nasal Tissue, Collagen, and Elastin Production

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Everything you need to know about Nonsurgical Nose Job

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Can HA filler be used to stretch the nasal tissue & increase healthy collagen and elastin?

Answers (4)

Answer: Understanding the Effects of HA Fillers on Nasal Tissue, Collagen, and Elastin Production

Answer: Understanding the Effects of HA Fillers on Nasal Tissue, Collagen, and Elastin Production

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Nonsurgical Nose Job

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