Are 5FU/kenalog a long-term solution for Bellafill complications?

Question

I got Bellafill 2 yrs ago. Three months later I developed pain and swelling. This resolved except for occasional flareups, but since that first episode my cheeks have looked too big (they looked perfect before that). I know 5FU/kenalog can help but are they long-term solutions? If my immune system overreacted to the product before, what's to stop it from happening again? And if the problems do recur, can they be successfully treated the same way again?

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

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

Honestly, it is impossible to determine if there will be further flairs after the initial treatment with 5FU and steroids. If the problem is due to infection, a course of long term antibiotics is necessary. This is usually due to a biofilm introduced during the injection process. You are right that the injections might only offer a temporary solution until the immune system rev's up again.

Robert J. Troell, MD, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Good Day. Thank you for your question.A delayed reaction of pain and swelling to Bellafill is extremely rare. 5-fuorouracil and/or Kenalog (triamcinolone) are designed to absorb some of the scar tissue (collagen) or firm areas (granuloma) that is formed by the microsomes of methylmathaeralate in Bellafill.Once the collagen is reduced, it is long-lasting. There is a possibility that it is an allergic reaction, although, again, very rare. The swelling may be do to excess filler and the treatment above should assist in reducing volume as well. There is a possibility that this reaction is due to another medical entity. An examination by your physician and an allergist or dermatologist may be indicated. Best of luck.

Are 5FU/kenalog a long-term solution for Bellafill complications?

Answers (3)

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.

Are 5FU/kenalog a long-term solution for Bellafill complications?

Answers (3)

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.