What is my best course of action for fixing a botched Bellafill injection? (photo)

Question

I had my under eye hollows filled with bellafill over a month ago. The doctor used a cannula in lieu of a needle. One eye had severe twitching for 24 - 48 hours after the injection but it has since settled down. She used 1 tube of bellafill (half a tube under each eye). I experienced minor bruising but nothing major. It appears that the filler has settled into the folds under my eyes that now poof out. What is the best way to remedy this? Should I go back to the same doctor?

Muhammad Mirza, MD (license suspended) · Answer

It is hard to say without a consultation. It would be best for you to be seen by a doctor to fully understand what you are describing as botched. Bellafill is a thicker filler which lasts a long time. It's not a hyaluronic acid like Juvederm which can potentially be reversed. A consultation is recommended.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Filler migration and granuloma formation can cause longterm problems with Bellafill and Artefill fillers. This is similar in patients who have Artecoll and PMMA fillers. Longterm filler complications include migration, edema, chronic swelling, and nodularity. If patients have filler migration or nodules, we recommend a combination approach of filler reversal with enzymes, corticosteroids, and scar tissue modulators. Our HIDEF approach can break down filler scarring and granulomas so that they are less apparent. If the filler material itself does not dissolve, it either means the filler is likely not HA material or is unresponsive to conservative therapy. This technique may be followed by surgical removal of the filler if there is a suitable target for removal and the chance of scarring is low.

Surgical removal of Bellafill is possible and we have a wide ranging experience with the treatment. Some areas of the face can be treated because the Bellafill removal scars are barely visible. We have found that Bellafill nodules, if palpated, can be removed from the tissue. Undereye Bellafill, nasolabial fold Bellafill, and lip filler can be treated successfully. Diffuse Bellafill is difficult to treat.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Keep in mind, it can take several months for final results with Bellafill. If you're unhappy with your final results, 5fu/steroid injections and venus legacy/viva treatments can help soften results. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Leslie Pickens, MD · Answer

Absolutely return to your doctor who can view your before and after photos and offer you advice.  If correction is needed there are remedies to consider.  The collagen portion will be reabsorbed and the final result of this injection is yet to be seen for at least 3 or 4 months.

Annika Crosby, MD · Answer

Hello! First of all, we have no before pictures to compare to.  Overall, the final results of Bellafill take at least 4-6 months. Cannulas are the best way to inject around the eye.  I would contact the provider and if they feel that the filler was misplaces, then they may try h steroids, 5FU, and collagenase.  Worst case scenario is surgical excision with Blepharoplasty. Overall, you need to visit an expert for an assessment. Best of Luck

What is my best course of action for fixing a botched Bellafill injection? (photo)

Answers (8)

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Answer: Bellafill in lower lids

Answer: Bellafill under eyes

Answer: Bellafill under eyes

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What is my best course of action for fixing a botched Bellafill injection? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Bellafill in lower lids

Answer: Bellafill in lower lids

Answer: Bellafill under eyes

Answer: Bellafill under eyes

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Bellafill

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