Are Dermal Fillers Safe for Long-Term Use?

Dermal fillers are injectables used to improve the appearance of facial lines and volume loss caused by age or certain medical conditions. These injectables, also known as dermal fillers, injectable implants, wrinkle fillers, and soft tissue fillers, can provide a temporary solution to facial lines and wrinkles. However, there are some risks associated with their use, such as accidental injection into a blood vessel and chronic inflammatory reactions. To reduce the risk of serious side effects, it is important to choose a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who only uses FDA-approved dermal fillers.

Inadvertent injection into blood vessels is the most serious risk associated with dermal fillers. This can have undesirable consequences when swallowing, with vocal cord function and eye movements, including double vision. Research published in Aesthetics has found that long-acting dermal fillers have higher rates of complications, such as infections and nodules. People should be tested for allergies before receiving dermal fillers made with certain materials, especially animal-derived materials like collagen.

The safe use of dermal fillers in combination with Botox and other treatments has not been evaluated in clinical studies. The main drawback of purified hyaluronic acid dermal filler is the short half-life of hyaluronic acid in the dermis, estimated at 24 to 48 hours. The overall incidence of long-term adverse reactions secondary to dermal injection of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers is believed to be low. As reported in clinical trials, the effects of most FDA-approved dermal fillers are temporary because they are made of materials that the body eventually breaks down and absorbs.

If you have had a problem with a dermal filler product or other FDA-regulated product, you can voluntarily report it to MedWatch, the FDA's safety information and adverse event reporting program. Dermal fillers may not be suitable for people with certain conditions, such as bleeding disorders or some allergies. If your healthcare provider confirms that dermal fillers are an option for you, know that all medical products have benefits and risks.