Are Injectable Fillers Safe for Everyone?
It’s best to know the risks involved before scheduling any cosmetic procedure, especially if you haven’t had it before. Whether they’re invasive or non-invasive, there are always at least mild potential side effects (even if they’re rare). Injectable fillers are no different. With that said, fillers are one of the safest cosmetic procedures on the market, and many of them have received FDA approval to treat several conditions.
What Are Injectable Fillers?
Injectable fillers are generally used to smooth out the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, restore lost volume to the face, and heal acne scars. They’re injected beneath the skin and the material is eventually broken down by the body. Depending on the particular filler, they use:
- Hyaluronic acid
- Calcium hydroxylapatite
- Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA)
What Are the Risks?
The most common side effects of injectable fillers are brief and mild. They include things like pain at the injection site, bruising, swelling, and tenderness. The effects are temporary and normally resolve within a few minutes to a few hours after the treatment. Most people don’t even need recovery time after the injections and can return to their normal activities. Other possible side effects include rash and allergic reactions, as some fillers are made with animal-derived collagen.
If an injectable filler is incorrectly applied, it may pose a risk to your blood vessels and put you at risk for severe side effects. However, this is incredibly uncommon. Trained and appropriately licensed professionals know how to correctly administer the injections.
Tips for Reducing the Risks
The best way to minimize your risk of complications from injectable fillers is to see a licensed professional for your treatment. Never purchase or inject your own filler. Do your research about the type of fillers available before making your choice, and take any questions to an expert.
Who Shouldn’t Get Injectable Fillers?
The FDA has deemed injectable fillers safe for most people over 22 years old. If you are prone to allergic reactions or have a bleeding condition, fillers may not be right for you. Even under those circumstances, certain options may still be safe.
Final Thoughts
Even with the side effects listed in this article, injectable fillers remain one of the safest cosmetic procedures available. If you’re interested in fillers but have concerns about the risks, speak to a licensed skin care professional for more information. Schedule your consultation with Beauty and Body by Mia to discuss whether injectable fillers are right for you.