Is there anything I can do about a lump under my eye from receiving Radiesse in cheeks?

Question

I received Radiesse in cheeks and felt product move under eye and now have lump under eye. I’m shocked this happened as I’ve been receiving it for three years and this never happened. The consent I signed said there’s nothing to be done about radiesse as you can’t dissolve it. Hoping this under eye lump and swelling isn’t my new normal for the next year.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

First, let me say how sorry I am that this has happened to you. While it is true that there is no specific enzyme to dissolve Radiesse, a calcium-based injectable filler, there are techniques that may be used to to help to speed its resolution. (Just fyi: filler results under the eyes may last an unusually long time, even years, so simple waiting for spontaneous resolution may take a long time).  These include the use of subcision to mechanically break up the lump, which can both help to shrink the lump and  hasten its clearance. Additionally, the concomitant injection of saline can further aid calcium particle breakup. And finally, although the medical literature asserts that hyaluronidase does not affect the surrounding native hyaluronic acid, experience says that it does to a certain extent and therefore may be used to lessen the protrusion of the lumps, as can the use of the anti-inflammatory, triamcinolone acetonide suspension. You would be wise to consult with a board certified aesthetic physician who has dealt with the problem in the past. (And once again fyi: The makers of Radiesse on working on a compound to dissolve the calcium, but this can take quite a while to receive approval).  Best of luck.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Radiesse is a stimulatory filler that is an excellent option for patients who desire a longer-lasting filler alternative to hyaluronic acid dermal fillers. In our office, we use Radiesse to complement structural areas of the face and contour bony prominences. Our office also is a center of excellence for filler complication treatments and we see patients who have been treated by other doctors and have undesirable results from Radiesse or other long-lasting fillers. We have treatment options available for Radiesse filler nodules, granulomas, and soft tissue thickening. The first step would be to diagnose the nodularity and determine whether there is an option for surgical vs. non-surgical removal. Surgical excision is a possibility in some patients; whereas others with more diffuse fillers may benefit from intralesional therapy using scar modulators and enzymes and kenalog. Radiesse complications may be long-lasting and prompt action is key. Patients who have no access to an expert in the field should begin gentle massage of the areas of nodularity with Plato’s Scar Serum twice daily. RF and invasive lasers can actually do more damage by stimulating further collagen growth.

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Misbah Khan MD, FAAD, FACMS · Answer

there is a way to make this better. u can either have it removed. or have it softened. there are pros and cons to both. I don't wanna go into the details of that but u have options.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, as your physician mentioned, this filler cannot be dissolved with Vitrase / hyaluronidase. A combination of fractional laser or radiofrequency, Venus Legacy treatments, and 5FU/steroid injections could help with the lump. Otherwise, aside from waiting to see if it goes away, the only other permanent option is surgical removal. I suggest getting a formal evaluation with a cosmetic dermatologist. Best, Dr. Emer.

Muhammad Mirza, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I'm sorry to hear about your experience.  I would suggest giving some time for the Radiesse to settle, however if nothing changes please see a professional.  You can discuss your concerns and the best treatment options for you.  All the best

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