In recent years, cosmetic fillers have gained immense popularity as a non-invasive way to achieve a youthful appearance. What happens when those fillers aren’t deployed properly, or are deployed too much–in the wrong places?
Well, the result isn’t the desired one. Unfortunately, Kylie Jenner has had to learn this for herself, and as online trolls launch their endless tirades of criticism, my approach is less critical of her choices. This is a moment for critical education.
A Daily Mail headline reads, “Fillers can make you look OLDER: As trolls mock Kylie Jenner’s reinvented pared-back style and blame fillers for making her ‘look in her 40s’, top dermatologists reveal how anti-ageing jabs can result in an ‘unnatural’ face.'”
Fair enough. That may all be true. Many people turn to fillers to reduce wrinkles, enhance lips, and restore volume to their faces. While these procedures can yield fantastic results when done by skilled professionals, it’s crucial to understand that they come with potential risks. The main risk? A fundamental misunderstanding about what fillers can accomplish is that fillers can create a lifted, youthful appearance. Fillers simply fill–they don’t lift anything. However, fillers deployed correctly, not in the soft tissue but beneath it—deep along the prominent bones of the face—can, in fact, create this desired look.
In this article, we will explore how the inexact and improper placement of fillers can have unintended consequences and affect your facial appearance.
Overfilling and Unnatural Results:
One of the most common pitfalls of filler treatments is overfilling. When inexperienced practitioners use excessive amounts of filler, and place them within the soft tissue of the skin and fat, these layers simply expand. This leads to an unnatural and “overdone” appearance. The face may appear puffy or swollen, and the features can become distorted, detracting from the natural beauty instead of enhancing it.
Asymmetry:
Achieving symmetry in facial filler procedures is challenging, and even minor imbalances can be glaringly obvious. If a practitioner lacks expertise, or if they employ the wrong technique, they may inadvertently inject uneven amounts of filler into different sides of the face. As a result, patients may end up with lopsided features, such as uneven lips or cheeks, which can be distressing and aesthetically displeasing.
Filler Migration:
Fillers won’t stay in soft tissue and often they migrate to unintended areas of the face. This can lead to lumps, bumps, and irregular contours. For example, filler meant for the lips might move into the surrounding areas, causing unevenness and discomfort.
Allergic Reactions:
While rare, allergic reactions to filler materials can occur. These reactions can lead to swelling, redness, and discomfort, causing a less-than-ideal appearance for the patient. It is crucial to choose a qualified practitioner who uses FDA-approved fillers to minimize the risk of allergic responses. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is considered safe for use in dermal fillers because it’s a natural component found in the human body, particularly in the skin, connective tissues, and eyes. It’s also biodegradable, meaning they naturally break down over time. This allows for gradual, subtle changes in appearance and minimizes the risk of long-lasting or permanent results, which can be less desirable. One significant advantage of HA fillers is that they are reversible. If a patient is unsatisfied with the results or experiences any complications, a healthcare provider can administer an enzyme called hyaluronidase to dissolve the HA filler and restore the pre-treatment appearance.
Long-term Consequences:
Some filler materials can have long-lasting effects, which may not be desired. Over time, the face naturally changes, and the presence of permanent or semi-permanent fillers can lead to an unnatural appearance as the rest of the face ages. This can result in a ‘frozen’ look that is far from the youthful and natural appearance many patients desire.
Conclusion:
While fillers can be a valuable tool for achieving a more youthful and attractive appearance, it is essential to recognize the potential risks and side effects associated with these procedures. Having fillers placed correctly is just as important. The deeper fillers are injected, the more they effectively add volume and contours, as well as smooth out wrinkles and folds. To avoid unwanted outcomes, it is crucial to choose a skilled and experienced practitioner who understands the nuances of facial anatomy and the appropriate use of fillers.
Before undergoing any filler treatment, it is advisable to thoroughly research the practitioner, ask for recommendations, and schedule consultations to discuss your goals and concerns. When done correctly, fillers can enhance your appearance, but it’s essential to be aware of the potential pitfalls to ensure a satisfying and natural-looking result. And remember, your face is a lifelong investment, and Kylie Jenner’s vision for her appearance didn’t seem to consider the years the come after 25.
