What are my options for misplaced cheek filler (and depressed about it)?

Question

I hate my facial filler. It’s hyaluronic but varied types (Voluma cheekbone/lateral & lighter types in front. Injector was reputable but misplaced it & used more to try & fix). Face is wide, cheeks too low/big. Board certified surgeon advised me to wait it out since different fillers at different times make dissolving random/tricky. Is this reasonable? I’ve waited 6/8 months & am depressed, can’t bear the mirror & cry often. Too ashamed to see friends. Can’t go to original injector to dissolve.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Filler migration and permanence is a very common problem because there are many different types of HA fillers on the market and each is specified for a specific part of the face. Use of highly cohesive fillers on thin skin may cause swelling and nodularity. If patients have filler migration or nodules, we recommend a combination approach of filler reversal with enzymes Hylenex and Hyaluronidase in different strengths to dissolve the filler. We may also need to add Kenalog to the mix in order to reduce fibrous tissue. If the filler does not dissolve, it either means the filler is not HA material or we need more enzyme. The HA reversal can be combined with other lasers and skin treatments at the same time, and it usually (usually) does not affect adjacent tissue.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi there,

I am sorry to hear that you are disappointed with your filler placement.
I think your surgeon is correct and you should wait it out.  Dissolving can create other issues that might be more problematic.

Best of luck,

What are my options for misplaced cheek filler (and depressed about it)?

Answers (2)