Feeling unwell after Juvederm Voluma injection. Should I be worried?

Thank you for your question. I understand you had 2ml of Juvederm Voluma injected into your cheeks, and that you have alight fever and felt a sensation of localized burning and pressure in the area after the injections. You say there’s no bruising, but you’re wondering if you should be concerned about this.Just a little about my background — I’m a Board-certified cosmetic surgeon and Fellowship-trained oculofacial plastic and reconstructive surgeon, practicing in Manhattan and Long Island for over 20 years. I specialize in facial rejuvenation, so I use a lot of fillers in my practice.To answer your question, yes, you should be concerned. Any time you have a fever, burning, or pain after an injectable, you need to bring that to your doctor’s attention.One thing that I have an issue with nowadays is how people think of injectables as less invasive procedures than surgery, which is certainly not the case. When you’re placing injectables, regardless of the type or brand, you’re going through the skin, which is your body’s one barrier that protects it from infection. Once you’ve entered the body, it’s considered an invasive procedure. Hyaluronic acid fillers are considered very safe, however there are instances where people have developed infections. Some of these infections can occur soon after the injection, while others can occur several months after.Now, when I perform these procedures, I adhere to a very high form of sterility, I take my time when doing the procedure itself, and I put a lot of thought into the aftercare plan. Essentially, I treat the procedure in the same way I would a surgical procedure. I also make sure to let my patients know that they can contact me 24 hours a days if they have any concerns at all. I do this because it is important that any potential infection be dealt with as quickly as possible to avoid complications.Continuous communication with your doctor and awareness is very important. I suggest that you contact your doctor and set up a meeting right away, and if your doctor isn’t available then you should find another doctor so they can immediately take a look at your situation. Now, it is possible that your fever is not directly related to the filler, but with your description of feeling a burning and pressure sensation, it is better to determine the true cause right away to avoid the potential for a full-blown infection.I hope that was helpful and I wish you the best of luck!

If you are worried, please see your physician.  It is not common to feel unwell from filler injections.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Fever and burning are not typical side effects from Voluma, I recommend that you visit your injector for a follow-up visit and examination. If your symptoms worsen, visit the emergency room. Voluma can be dissolved with hyaluronidase if necessary.