What Is Facial Filler Migration and How Can You Stop It?

Many patients likely don’t think much about what happens to their filler after they get an injectable treatment like Juvéderm®. Thousand Oaks’ Pierre Skin Care Institute believes that patients should educate themselves as much as possible on what to expect from facial fillers, because knowledge helps them to get the most satisfying results from these minimally invasive cosmetic treatments.

It’s a good idea to have a clear idea of what ideal results will look like from fillers, as well as what to watch for.

There are two main types of wrinkles: lines caused by our habitual facial expressions (which are called expression wrinkles) and lines associated with the loss of collagen, fat, and elasticity from the skin due to aging or other types of damage (known as static wrinkles). Static wrinkles remain etched into the face even when the face is at rest. 

Fillers are typically gels injected beneath the skin to add volume and make wrinkles less noticeable. Because they’re so well researched and commonly applied, there are few side effects to watch for. Filler migration is one.

Filler migration is what happens when filler that is injected into one area “slides” or migrates into another area beyond the intended injection site. Hyaluronic acid facial fillers, which are the most popular types of fillers, have the highest risk for migration. The truth is that this side effect is very rare, and fillers won’t generally be moving from the cheeks to the chin or anything extreme like that, because there are fixed compartments in the face. This side effect also isn’t as alarming as it may sound.

Filler can usually only move if there is adjacent space. What patients usually are referring to when they talk about “filler migration” is filler that is incorrectly placed and causing undesirable side effects, such as creating a noticeable bump or bumps due to poor injection techniques or any other reason. This shouldn’t happen if proper techniques are being used.

Filler migration is more likely to occur in certain areas such as around the lips or below the eyes because these are high-movement areas of the face, and there is a higher potential for movement to occur in weakened or damaged areas that can’t hold onto the product well. At times, this can lead to pain and discomfort.

If you’re worried about this complication occurring, read on to learn what can be done to reduce the risk. 

See a Qualified Injector

The best thing you can do if you’re worried about filler migration is to start by choosing the right provider based on experience and expertise rather than prioritizing price. Skills vary among injectors, and seeing someone who’s unqualified can increase your risk of complications. Do as much research as you can before choosing a practitioner and choose someone who has a solid background in cosmetic procedures. 

Follow Aftercare Recommendations 

Although each provider has their own views, it will be wise to follow your practitioner’s specific recommendations for aftercare. It’s your job as the patient to reduce the risk of migration by making the right choices at home. Many injectors recommend avoiding intense exercise and lifting heavy objects for several days, and that patients avoid hot showers, saunas, or sun exposure immediately after they’ve had fillers. Avoid manipulating or massaging the area of your face that was injected for at least four weeks. Also avoid wearing tight face masks for long period of time because filler is a gel, and it can move if you put too much pressure on it. 

If you actually do have “filler migration,” there’s no need to worry, because fillers are temporary treatments, and the gel will eventually be metabolized. You can also choose to get your hyaluronic acid filler dissolved with an enzyme. 

For more details about injectable fillers like Juvéderm®, contact Thousand Oaks’ Pierre Skin Care Institute. They offer skin rejuvenation procedures to reduce wrinkles and other effects of aging, as well as to enhance facial contours. Call 805-496-9190 or submit a contact form online to set up a consultation if you would like to discuss fillers.