The Dangers of Dermal Fillers

You may be getting more than you bargained for with dermal fillers, according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The FDA is warning both consumers and health care professionals about the possible risks tied to dermal fillers.

Also known as soft tissue fillers or wrinkle fillers, dermal fillers are used to help correct severe facial wrinkles and skin folds. But the FDA is warning about the possibility of rare but serious injuries that may result from unintentional injection of dermal fillers into the blood vessels in the face.

Unintentional injection into the blood vessels in the face can block the blood vessels and restrict the blood supply to tissues. This can sometimes lead to embolization, which occurs when the filler material travels to other parts of the body. Embolization can cause stroke, vision impairment, blindness, and damage to or death of the skin and underlying facial structures.

The FDA said those looking to get dermal fillers should look for a licensed health care professional who has experience with dermatology and plastic surgery. Also, the FDA recommended that interested consumers choose a doctor who is trained to perform the dermal filler injection procedure.

The FDA warned against purchasing dermal filler products online because these products may be counterfeit or not approved in the United States. Never inject yourself with dermal fillers.

Dermal fillers may pose various other risks, according to the FDA. Your health care provider can tell you whether dermal fillers are appropriate for you.