What Are the Contraindications for Dermal Filler Treatments?
Contraindications for Dermal Filler Treatments
Fillers are a safe, effective way to make wrinkles and other flaws less noticeable. However, just like any medical procedure, they can come with some risks and contraindications. Knowing what the limitations of the treatment are will help you determine if it is right for your patients.
Inadvertent injection of blood vessels is a common complication that can lead to permanent damage to the skin and its underlying structures. This can cause a range of symptoms, including blanching of the skin, stroke, vision impairment, blindness, and more. It is important to train your staff and patients in the signs and symptoms of this type of complication, so they can seek immediate medical care if necessary.
Another potential complication of dermal fillers training treatments is the formation of nodules or lumps. These may be inflammatory or non-inflammatory, related to the filler or unrelated to it. In some cases, they require a biopsy to determine their etiology. The use of antibiotics is also an option for treating these nodules, depending on the outcome of the test.
What Are the Contraindications for Dermal Filler Treatments?
A third possible complication is the Tyndall effect, which results in bluing of the skin around the injection site. This can last for weeks, and is often unsightly, though it is reversible with massage. The risk of the Tyndall effect is higher for patients with darker skin, but it can occur in any skin type or color.
Fat grafting is another alternative to dermal fillers, and it has a number of benefits that make it a desirable choice for some patients. In a facial fat grafting procedure, the healthcare provider removes a small amount of fat from the patient’s body, purifies it, and then injects it into the face to fill in wrinkles or other creases.
Facial fat grafting is more complex than receiving off-the-shelf dermal fillers, but the process is generally safe and relatively painless. It is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, and the recovery time is relatively quick.
Regardless of the type of dermal filler, some patients may not be suitable candidates due to a history of serious allergic reactions or other medical conditions. These include bleeding disorders, autoimmune diseases, and other conditions that can affect blood flow or lead to bruising.
Patients who have undergone cancer therapy may not be able to receive dermal fillers, as the cancer medications can interfere with the body’s ability to heal from the damage. This is also true for those who have a history of severe, life-threatening allergies or a history of anaphylaxis.
Despite these contraindications, dermal fillers can be used by many patients, and are often effective in treating lines and wrinkles. By taking the time to find a qualified, experienced cosmetic training provider, you can equip yourself with the knowledge and skills you need to safely add this popular and lucrative treatment to your practice.