Picture this: You leave the clinic, excited to see your newly improved cheeks, but instead of delight, dread sets in. The face in the mirror isn’t what you had in mind — your cheeks are puffy, uneven, and unnatural.
Unfortunately, despite cheek fillers offering quick, non-surgical rejuvenation, things can go wrong, affecting you physically and emotionally. If you’re facing the disappointment of cheek fillers gone wrong, there’s still hope.
This guide will help you recognize problems and find solutions, empowering you to reclaim your confidence and the look you deserve.
Understanding Cheek Fillers
Cheek fillers are injectable materials that increase cheeks' mass, contour, and lift. These fillers contain biocompatible materials such as hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, or poly-L-lactic acid.
And how is it done?
Dermatologists or aestheticians inject the cheeks with the filler to achieve your desired results.
When done correctly, the results of cheek fillers can be amazing and naturally looking. They sharpen the cheekbone area, lift sagging skin, and even balance facial proportions.
Types of Cheek Fillers
1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) Fillers
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is naturally occurring in the body. It’s designed to help keep your skin hydrated and voluminous. HA fillers are soft, gel-like, and can dissolve, making it one of the most popular options with first-time patients. It boasts a reputation for natural-looking results, with a low risk of complications. It lasts from half a year to about two years.
2. Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) fillers
CaHA fillers are manufactured with a thicker, heavier material. Other than providing bulk, they also stimulate the skin to regenerate collagen. These types of fillers are mostly used for significant volume replacement or contouring. They last from 12 to 18 months.
3. Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers
Stimulates the body to produce collagen, slowly replacing volume in the cheeks Poly-L-Lactic Acid Fillers are used for more subtle, gradual enhancements. That is why the results last longer than two years.
4. Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) Injectables
PMMA fillers are made of granules floating in collagen solution and are classified as temporary fillers. They last for a long time, making them suitable for clearing deep facial lines and creases. They can last for more than five years.
Indicators of Cheek Fillers Gone Wrong
1. Signs of Overcorrection
One of the most obvious signs of poorly done cheek fillers is overcorrection. It happens when there is too much volume in a single area, making it look puffy and unnatural.
Overcorrected cheeks can be asymmetric, resulting in what is more commonly referred to as a "pillow face." This condition occurs when the face, particularly the cheeks, appears overly smooth or round, with the natural contours and angles no longer visible.
2. Asymmetry and Lumps
Facial asymmetry and lumps are also common signs of cheek fillers gone wrong. Instead of a symmetrical fullness between the two cheeks, the filler can result in the exaggeration of facial asymmetry —one side being fuller or higher than the other.
It may be difficult or pretty obvious to detect, depending on the grade of unevenness. The latter may be more apparent in photographs or under different lighting conditions, as the shadows would outline the difference on both sides of the face.
It also can be caused by the filler when it is injected superficially or irregularly. Sometimes this irregularity can be felt under the skin, but on other occasions, it may even be visible to the naked eye.
3. Allergic Reactions
While less frequent, allergic reactions may occur right after a cheek filler procedure or days after. Common signs include redness, swelling, itching, and tenderness at the site of injection. In rare cases, cheek fillers may trigger more serious reactions such as hives, breathing difficulty, and swelling of the face and throat.
4. Lumps and Bumps
Other possible complications with cheek fillers include bumps and lumps, which may result from improper injections or the type of filler used. These are visible and palpable irregularities that are quite distressing. At times, these lumps may migrate to other parts of the face.
5. Infection
An infection is also an indicator of cheek fillers gone wrong. It may occur due to the use of contaminated fillers or injection tools or not following the aftercare instructions. Signs of an infection include redness, swelling, pain, and fever. If left unattended, an infection may lead to serious complications.
6. Vascular complications
Vascular occlusion is one of the severe complications that could occur in the case a cheek filler goes wrong. It happens when filler material accidentally enters a vessel, blocking blood supply to the area. If not treated promptly, it may lead to necrosis and scarring.
Why Do Cheek Fillers Go Wrong?
1. Novice practitioners
The most common cause of cheek fillers gone wrong is entrusting the procedure to inexperienced or unqualified practitioners. Injecting fillers is as much an art as a science. A practitioner must understand facial anatomy and have a keen aesthetic eye. Without proper training and experience, the procedure may turn disastrous.
2. Improper Filler Selection
Not all fillers are the same. Using an inappropriate type of filler for a particular skin type or aesthetic goal can lead to problems with cheek fillers. While an experienced practitioner will always choose the right filler for your specific needs, issues often arise from incorrect filler selection.
3. Poor Injection Technique
Even with the appropriate filler, poor injection technique may be a source of problems. Overfilling, asymmetry, and lumps are often common manifestations of an improper injection technique. This makes choosing an experienced and skillful injector vital.
4. Unreal expectations
Fillers can sometimes go wrong because of the patient's unrealistic expectations. While fillers may be highly effective, they do have limits. To expect them to completely change your face or erase every sign of aging can lead to disappointment.
5. Lack of Communication
Cheek fillers can also go wrong due to poor communication between the patient and the practitioner. If your goals and expectations are not clear, the results may not be as anticipated.
Cheek Fillers Gone Wrong: Fixes and Adjustments
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of cheek fillers gone wrong, don’t panic—there are several ways to fix the situation. The appropriate solution will depend on the specific issue you’re facing.
1. Dissolution of Filler
Other asymmetries, lumps, or overfilling are more appropriately treated by dissolution of the filler. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. It breaks the filler down to the point that your body may absorb it naturally over time.
How It Works:
- The practitioner will inject hyaluronidase directly into the area where the filler needs to be dissolved.
- The enzyme is fast-acting; it takes a few hours or a couple of days to show results.
- Sometimes, it may take more than one session for the complete dissolution of the filler.
- Dissolving the filler can be a complete game-changer when cheek fillers go wrong, but one has to find an experienced practitioner who knows his way with hyaluronidase.
2. Massage the Area
Light, gentle massages by a professional can help solve minor swellings, lumps, or bumps. This is one of the common methods when cheek fillers go wrong, and there are small areas of unevenness.
How It Works:
- The practitioner will apply gentle pressure and massage the bumps or lumps to redistribute the filler.
- This can help to smooth out small irregularities and generally improve appearance.
However, this method applies only to minor problems, and great caution should be exercised not to result in further complications.
3. Adding Additional Filler
Sometimes, the best correction for cheek fillers gone wrong is to add more filler. It sounds unusual, but a little bit of filling can even things out if one side seems to have more volume than the other.
How It Works:
- In this regard, the practitioner will check the asymmetries and inject more filler to harmonize the result.
- This concept involves a proficient injector who can strategically place the filler to achieve the desired result.
4. Waiting It Out
Sometimes, there is nothing more that could be done other than waiting it out. Most fillers are temporary and get broken down naturally by the body. You can leave slight defects to resolve on their own as long as they do not distress you.
How It Works:
- Most hyaluronic acid fillers last anywhere between 6 to 18 months, depending on their type and the individual's metabolism.
- With time, the body gradually breaks down and absorbs this type of filler.
5. Revision Surgery
Revision surgery may be required in those very rare instances where cheek fillers have gone wrong and the above methods are not successful. This approach only comes in during severe complications or when the filler causes significant tissue damage.
How It Works:
- The surgeon will carefully remove the problematic filler and repair the damage accordingly.
- It will be a more aggressive technique and needs an experienced cosmetic surgeon who can perform revision cases.
How to Prevent Cheek Fillers Going Wrong
1. Research and Consultation
The best course of action to avoid the potential problems of botched cheek filler procedures is to choose a reliable injector. Do extensive research because not all medical professionals are qualified and experienced. The competence and experience of your injector have a significant impact on how your surgery turns out. Here's how to select an injector:
- Credential Verification: Verify if your healthcare professional has completed a post-training fellowship in injectable therapies and is Board Certified in Dermatology or Plastic Surgery.
- Read Reviews: Examine patient comments and before-and-after pictures of the injector's previous work.
- Ask Questions: During your consultation, you should inquire about the injector's experience with cheek fillers, the various types of fillers that are available, and how to treat any issues that may arise thereafter.
- Listen to your instincts: If something feels wrong or 'off' during the consultation, get a second opinion. Comfort and confidence with the injector are important for optimal results.
2. Realistic Expectations
Fillers are best used to improve facial structures but have certain inconveniences. So, your goals must be realistic before the procedure:
- Understand what fillers can and cannot do: Fillers add volume, contour, and elevate. But, they cannot perform miracles – give you a new face or erase all signs of facial aging. While setting your objectives, explain to the injector what you envision so they can tell you what is possible.
- Start small: Begin with a little filler to see how the body will respond. You can add more if necessary.
- Be patient: Bear in mind that the results may take a few days before they can be noticed.
By setting realistic expectations, you're more likely to feel satisfied with your results and avoid the disappointment that comes from expecting too much.
3. Aftercare Instructions
Aftercare is important to avoid all the negative consequences that may arise. Below are some tips that will help you during the recovery period after the cheek filler procedure.
- Avoid Excessive Heat: Do not take hot baths or sit in saunas or sun beds within the first 24 – 48 hours. Excessive heat can increase swelling and may affect filler placement.
- Avoid Vigorous Activity: Do not be involved in any strenuous activities, including heavy lifting, for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Sudden physical activity rises blood pressure, and the increased blood flow may also cause swelling and the development of bruises.
- Hydrate: This is important because drinking lots of water helps the body repair tissues and make the skin look fuller.
- Don't Touch Your Face: Do not apply pressure or massage the area which has been treated unless you are told to do so by your practitioner. Rubbing or applying pressure may cause shifting of the fillers hence un-level distribution.
- Follow-up: Attend all follow-up appointments to allow the injector to examine the treated area for any issues.
Conclusion
When cheek fillers gone wrong, disappointment and distress kick in. But with the right steps, most issues can be resolved effectively. The crucial step is to consult a qualified professional who can offer the right guidance and care.
To avoid complications, always choose a highly skilled practitioner, communicate your goals clearly, and adhere to all pre- and post-procedure instructions. By taking these precautions, you get to enjoy the beautiful, natural-looking results you desire.
Take Control of Your Beauty Journey with Diaminy
If you’re considering cheek fillers or facing any challenges, don’t stress—help is at hand. Take control of your beauty journey by understanding the risks and being proactive in seeking the best treatments.
At Diaminy Aesthetics, we offer top-quality products and expert advice to help you achieve your desired look. Visit Diaminy Aesthetics today to explore our range of trusted products and take the first step towards enhancing your natural beauty with confidence.
