Problem With Facial Fillers
Facial fillers, also called dermal fillers, are cosmetic solutions that promise a younger appearance by "filling in" wrinkles with injections, giving the skin a smooth, plump texture. While fillers are an effective non-surgical, anti-aging solution, they come with risks and complications. Does this Spark an idea?
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Types of Fillers
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Facial fillers are either composed of hyaluronic acid or collagen, two natural components of the skin crucial to its appearance. There are many brands, including Zyplast, Juvederm, Restylane, Cosmoderm, Zyderm and many others.
Source of Treatment
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The Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery reports that the largest risk associated with facial fillers is receiving treatment from an untrained and unqualified provider. According to the November 2008 Associated Press article on MSNBC.com, "Panel urges FDA to warn about facial filler risks;" the FDA considers regulating facial fillers more closely due to concerns about untrained technicians giving injections.
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Bumps and Clumps
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Redness and swelling are common side effects of treatment that subside within a few days, but facial filler gels are sometimes composed of unnatural ingredients the body can't absorb, which can cause clumping beneath the skin that requires medical treatment. The result is hard bumps felt and seen at the skin's surface.
Migration
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Particles from facial fillers may also migrate away from the site of injection, and become displaced. This could cause clumps, swelling, bruising or infection of the area of displacement. Anti-inflammatory medicine is used to treat clumps and swelling.
Infection
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The Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery says that infection after a filler injection is rare, however, the FDA cites it as a possible side effect. In late 2008, the FDA evaluated the data of 823 facial filler patients who suffered severe reactions, 19 of which were life-threatening allergic reactions, according to the AP article on MSNBC.com. The Consumer Guide says only fillers made of animal sources pose allergy threats.
Other Reported Problems
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In 2008, the FDA received reports from medical experts and patients that described "serious and unexpected" problems as a result of facial fillers, including facial and eye paralysis, vision complications and disfigurement. The FDA says no deaths have been reported.
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