Filler injections are a popular procedure in the cosmetic industry, but many people are often misled into using counterfeit fillers because of their lower price, leading to numerous negative side effects. Furthermore, these fillers cannot be dissolved. Filler removal is therefore another method to eliminate counterfeit fillers, and the results are better if corrected promptly. This article will explain what filler removal is, why we need to remove counterfeit fillers, and any dangerous side effects. Let's take a look.

What is filler removal?

Filler removal is a procedure to correct problems caused by fillers.Filler injectionPermanent fillers, or those classified as counterfeit fillers, cannot be naturally broken down and cannot be removed with filler dissolving injections. When injected under the skin, they may cause allergic reactions, filler inflammation, infection, or migrate into lumps, resulting in facial disfigurement. 

Initially, after injecting fake filler, it can be corrected by scraping it out. However, if left for a long time and the filler adheres to the tissue, forming scar tissue, it can no longer be scraped out. Ultimately, the only solution is to remove the fake filler surgically.

The Dangers of Injecting Fake Fillers: Know Before You Decide.

Fake fillers

Many people may be tempted by cheaper procedures, have misconceptions about permanent fillers or liquid silicone, believing they can provide long-lasting results, or resort to substandard clinics resulting in counterfeit or impure fillers. This can lead to the following undesirable side effects:

  • Inflammation and infection occurred at the site where the fake filler was injected.
  • Filler tissue does not break down naturally. When it remains under the skin for a long time, it can cause scarring, hardening of the tissue, and facial disfigurement.
  • This may cause filler lumps and uneven skin texture. 
  • In severe cases, it can cause tissue necrosis, gangrene, or, if it blocks blood vessels, it can lead to blindness.

When adverse reactions occur from liquid silicone or counterfeit fillers, the solution is not as simple as with genuine fillers, which only require injecting a filler dissolving agent. Instead, the counterfeit filler must be scraped out. However, scraping doesn't always completely remove all of the counterfeit filler; in most cases, not 100%, some residue may remain. 

Therefore, before getting filler injections, it is recommended to carefully research filler details and have the injections done at a reputable clinic to ensure that genuine fillers are used.

Symptoms that necessitate filler removal. 

What types of symptoms after filler injection require removal?

  • Swelling and inflammation resulting from an allergic reaction to filler.
  • Skin infection at the injection site.
  • Even years after filler injection, the filler may not dissolve and may harden into lumps or leak and pool in clumps.
  • Facial deformities from fillers.

Typically, filler removal is used when patients have received counterfeit fillers or liquid silicone, which are permanent fillers not approved by the Thai FDA. If you have unknowingly received counterfeit fillers, it is recommended that you have them removed as soon as possible. There's no need to wait until inflammation or facial disfigurement occurs before seeking treatment. 

Which areas can be treated to remove filler? 

If you've had fake fillers injected and want to have them removed, where can they be removed? The answer is yes, fillers can be removed from almost any area, including the chin, under-eyes, temples, nose, cheeks, and lips, etc.

However, filler removal must be performed by a skilled surgeon only, as it can have long-term effects on skin tissue. In some cases where the filler adheres to the skin tissue, special caution must be exercised during removal because there is a risk of damaging nerves and blood vessels.

Side effects of filler removal.

Filler removal

Removing fake fillers can cause swelling, bruising, or inflammation, and may affect nerves or blood vessels in the area. Therefore, filler removal must be performed by a specialist physician. However, removing fake fillers after realizing you've had them injected is still safer than leaving the fake filler under the skin. The longer you leave it, the more difficult it is to correct, eventually requiring surgery or becoming irreversible.

The procedure for removing filler, correcting filler migration, sagging, drooping, or inflammation.

  • The staff came in to clean the skin area where the filler would be removed. 
  • The doctor administered a local anesthetic, waited for it to take effect, and then made an incision with a surgical knife.
  • The doctor will then use a filler scraping instrument to remove the filler. 
  • After the filler has been removed, the doctor will apply an antiseptic before closing the wound.

Filler removal through scraping may not be 100% possible, depending on how the filler adheres to the skin. If the filler has formed significant fibrous tissue or hard lumps, only a small amount may be removed, or none at all. Before performing filler removal, the doctor will assess the level of filler adhesion to determine if removal is even possible.

Here's how to choose the right filler injection site and what factors to consider. 

To avoid wasting money on counterfeit fillers that need to be removed later, it's safest to choose genuine fillers. In this section, we'll guide you on how to identify authentic fillers. Let's take a look!

  • Choose a reputable and trustworthy clinic for filler injections. 
  • The fillers used must be approved by the Thai FDA and this can be verified. 
  • The filler used must be opened from a new, sealed box in clear visibility to prevent switching to counterfeit fillers.

Choosing genuine fillers is definitely safer than using counterfeit ones. Furthermore, if problems arise—whether from an allergic reaction to hyaluronic acid (the main component of fillers), inexperienced doctor injecting too much leading to lumps, unsatisfactory results, or a change of heart wanting silicone implants instead—they can be easily resolved by dissolving the filler with an injection.

Self-care after filler removal for faster healing.

How should I care for myself after filler removal to promote faster recovery?

  • In the first few days, there may be pain, swelling, and bruising. Patients can apply cold compresses to relieve pain and bruising. If the pain is severe, pain medication can also be taken to alleviate the symptoms.
  • Take the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor to prevent infection.
  • Do not touch, squeeze, pick, or scratch the area where the filler was removed, as this may increase the risk of infection and may cause scarring.
  • Attend your scheduled doctor's appointment to monitor your condition. 

Typically, wounds from filler removal heal gradually within 1-2 weeks. If the pain does not improve within that timeframe after filler removal, you should consult a doctor to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

Frequently asked questions about filler removal. 

How much does it cost to remove filler?

The cost of filler removal starts at 20,000-50,000 baht and varies depending on the complexity of each case.

After filler removal, how many days should I wait before getting new filler injections? 

Doctors usually recommend waiting about 1-2 months to allow the wound from filler removal to heal properly.

Summary of filler removal procedure. 

Filler removal is a procedure to correct problems that arise after injecting counterfeit or permanent fillers at substandard clinics. Ideally, it's best to choose genuine fillers from a specialist at a reputable clinic. This ensures long-term skin safety and reduces the risk of repeated corrective procedures. At Romrawin Clinic, a comprehensive aesthetic clinic, we prioritize patient safety by using genuine, FDA-approved fillers and having the procedure performed by specialist doctors to achieve the best possible results.

refer

Nose filler complication treatment (nd). RHINOPLASTY KOREA.
https://www.rhinoplastykorea.com/nose-filler-complication-treatment/

Surgical removal of liquid silicone on the face and neck. (nd). vinmec international hospital.
https://www.vinmec.com/en/news/health-news/general-health-check/surgical-removal-of-liquid-silicone-on-the-face-and-neck/