What happens if I am allergic to injectable fillers?

If you want a fresh face without going under the knife, fillers may be just what you’re looking for. Injectable fillers have become increasingly popular in recent years as a non-surgical option for restoring volume or enhancing facial features. While generally safe and well-tolerated by most patients, as with any cosmetic treatment, there is a slight risk of developing an allergic reaction. What happens if I am allergic to injectable fillers?

Many of today’s injectable fillers are made of substances found in the body, drastically reducing your chance of an allergic reaction. Some are made of synthetic materials which can carry a small risk of an allergy. Allergic reactions to injectable fillers may occur immediately after the injection or up to several weeks later. If you plan on receiving injectable fillers, it’s a good idea to know the symptoms of an allergic reaction so you can watch for them.

Common symptoms include swelling or redness at the injection site. Itchiness or a rash are also signs that a reaction may be occurring. In severe (and rare) cases, an allergic reaction may cause difficulty breathing or a drop in blood pressure, causing you to feel faint or dizzy. If you suspect you are experiencing an allergic reaction to your injectable fillers, you should seek medical attention right away.

In most mild cases, reactions can be managed with antihistamines or steroids to reduce itching and swelling. Severe reactions may require faster-acting treatment such as epinephrine, also known as an epi-pen.

If you have known allergies to injectable filler materials or have had a previous reaction to an injectable filler, you may be surprised to learn that you can still receive fillers. Just let your doctor know about your allergies before undergoing treatment so they can choose a different filler material and take precautions to be prepared for responding to an allergic reaction.

The risk of an allergic reaction to an injectable filler is small, but it’s still important to be aware of the symptoms and treatments in the event a reaction does occur. While you can’t control how your body may respond, you can ensure you are in the best hands prior to receiving injectables. Choosing the right doctor, with extensive experience and knowledge in injectable fillers, is one of the most important decisions you can make leading up to your treatment.

Dr. Kevin. I. Perman has experience with injectables dating back over 20 years, both as a practitioner and educator. To schedule an appointment, call (301) 571-0000.