Pimple like bump on filler injection area - how can this be treated? (Photos)

Question

I have a pimple like bubble situated on the area where the injection for filler was placed. My practitioner pricked the bubble but no product was underneath the bump and used dissolver which also didn’t work. Can you advise me what this is and is this permanent/ what treatments are available

Mahmood Siddique, DO · Answer

A pimple-like bump in a filler injection area can sometimes be due to inflammation, a clogged pore, or a delayed inflammatory response rather than filler itself. Since dissolver didn’t resolve it and no product came out when it was pricked, it’s less likely to be a filler nodule.
Possible causes may include:
Local skin reaction or miliaEncapsulated inflammation or biofilmGranuloma formation (rare, delayed immune response)
Treatment options may include:
Topical or intralesional steroids to reduce inflammationWarm compresses if it's superficial and inflamedAntibiotics if infection is suspectedLaser or minor excision if persistent
It’s best evaluated by a practitioner experienced in managing filler complications to determine the exact nature and treatment path. Most cases are not permanent and resolve with proper care.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

It sounds like you are experiencing a localized reaction at the site of your filler injection. These types of bumps can sometimes occur due to a variety of reasons, including superficial placement of the filler, a mild inflammatory response, or even a clogged pore that coincidentally formed at the injection site.

Given that the dissolver did not affect the bump, it might not be directly related to the filler itself. Here are a few possibilities and treatment considerations:

Granuloma Formation: This is a rare response where the body forms a small nodule around the filler material. Treatment options may include corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation.

Superficial Skin Lesion: If this is more of a skin issue, such as a clogged pore or sebaceous cyst, treatments might include topical therapies or minor surgical removal if persistent.

Delayed Inflammatory Reaction: Sometimes the body can have a delayed response to the filler material. Anti-inflammatory medications or further observation might be recommended.

Infection: Although unlikely if the area is not painful or red, an infection should be ruled out. Antibiotics might be necessary in such cases.

Given the complexity of these reactions, further evaluation by a dermatologist or a practitioner experienced in managing filler complications is advised. They may perform additional diagnostic tests or imaging if needed to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

What filler was used?  Did your practitioner "prick" deep enough with a large enough instrument to overcome viscous resistance to flow for evacuation of filler?  Was dissolver injected in sufficient dose and location for success?  If hematoma (blood clot) has enough time after injection elapsed for dissipation?  Was the filler used associated with granuloma formation?

Pimple like bump on filler injection area - how can this be treated? (Photos)

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Pimple like bump on filler injection area - how can this be treated? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

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