What is Dermal Filler Migration? Here's Everything You Need to Know

Is filler migration really a thing?

In recent years, cosmetic dermal fillers, like Juvéderm have gained immense popularity for their ability to enhance facial features, smooth out wrinkles, and restore volume. However, with this surge in demand, there has been an increasing concern about a phenomenon known as filler migration. Understanding filler migration, why it happens, and how to prevent it is good information for anyone considering getting fillers.

What is filler migration?

Filler migration refers to the unintended movement of dermal fillers from the initial injection site to other areas of the face. This can result in an uneven appearance, lumps, or unnatural contours, obviously not the desired outcomes of these procedures. While fillers are designed to stay in place, various factors can cause them to shift, leading to poor results and potential complications.

Why should I be concerned about filler migration?

In general, filler migration is very rare and shouldn’t occur if you’re going to a reputable aesthetic dermatological clinic like LaserAway that has what’s known as filler amount protocols (meaning there is a maximum number of units that is injected into the target area to avoid overdoing it). But, when filler migration does happen, fillers moving from their intended location can create an unnatural look. Instead of achieving a natural-looking, balanced appearance, you may end up with asymmetry, lumps, or other irregularities that can be difficult to correct.

What are the causes of filler migration?

Overfilling

One of the leading causes of filler migration is overfilling. When too much filler is injected into a single area, the excess material can spread to adjacent tissues. This is because the skin and underlying structures have limited capacity to accommodate additional volume. Overfilling increases the risk of migration and can result in an unnatural, overdone look. But the good news? Reputable aesthetic dermatological clinics like LaserAway have protocols in place to ensure overfilling doesn’t happen.

Poor execution and inexperienced clinicians

Your clinician’s skill and experience are crucial to the treatment’s outcome. Inexperienced and undertrained clinicians may lack the nuanced understanding of facial anatomy required to place fillers correctly. Poor technique, such as injecting too superficially or too deeply, can lead to fillers migrating from the desired area. The wrong choice of filler type can also lead to filler migration.

Why you should choose a reputable provider

Since many potential complications can be associated with filler migration, you should choose a reputable and experienced aesthetic dermatological provider. Here are a few things to think about when choosing a provider:

Credentials and experience: Ensure that the clinician is a board-certified dermatologist, plastic surgeon, registered nurse, nurse practitioner, physician associate, or another trained medical professional with extensive experience in filler injections.
Patient reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews and testimonials from previous patients to gauge the provider’s track record and patient satisfaction.
Consultation and assessment: A reputable provider will conduct a thorough consultation and assessment to determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
Use of quality products: High-quality, FDA-approved fillers, like Juvéderm, are less likely to migrate compared to cheaper, unregulated products. Always verify that the provider uses reputable brands.

How to reduce the risk of filler migration

To minimize the risk of filler migration, following pre- and post-procedure guidelines provided by your clinician is essential. Here are some tips:

Follow post-procedure instructions: Adhere to any aftercare instructions, such as avoiding strenuous activities, not massaging the treated area, and keeping your head elevated, as recommended by your clinician.
Regular follow-ups: Schedule appointments to monitor your results and promptly address concerns.
Report any issues: If you notice any unusual changes or side effects, contact your provider immediately to prevent further complications.
Don’t get filler too often. Follow the recommended touch-up schedule from your provider.

Looking for a reputable provider? Check out LaserAway

If you want to achieve the best results from experienced and trained clinicians, check out LaserAway, the nation’s leading aesthetic dermatological provider. All treatments, including fillers, are performed by skilled registered nurses, nurse practitioners, and physician associates, so you know you are in good hands!