Ischemic complications of dermal fillers

Abstract

Dermal fillers have become increasingly popular as a cosmetic treatment for facial rejuvenation. Although these injections are generally considered to be safe, as the number of injections has increased, so has the rate of complications. Ischemic complications of fillers is critical and include vision loss, ophthalmoplegia, skin necrosis, and cerebral infarction. Knowing the anatomy well to optimally prevent and manage these serious complications. Prevention includes knowledge of the vascular anatomy of the facial area, as well as certain injection techniques such as aspiration, use of a smaller needle, and adoption of a larger cannula. The use of ultrasound has been a recent innovation in preventing and treating filler complications as well. The reversibility of fillers should also be considered when choosing a filler. Some hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, including the newer ones on the market, are difficult to reverse and non-HA fillers and fat are irreversible. This review aims to discuss facial anatomy, the various ischemic filler complications, the prevention and management of these complications, and the relatively recent use of imaging as an adjunct.