Dermal Fillers – What You Need to Know

Protecting Yourself When Using Dermal Fillers

In the never-ending quest for the so-called fountain of youth, thousands of people are undergoing treatment with a new FDA-approved product called a dermal filler. Dermal fillers are advertised as reducing facial lines, such as crow’s feet, and laugh and frown lines. They are also used to increase lip size and make cheeks fuller. Though consumers have reported positive results with dermal fillers, FDA officials warn of potential side effects and recommend that consumers learn more about the product before deciding to use it.

What is a Dermal Filler?

A dermal filler contains a substance that is injected into the skin, providing a smoother appearance. Thus far, the FDA has approved only one type of permanent dermal filler, one that uses microscopic beads that are not absorbed into the body. This product has been approved exclusively for applying to facial tissue at and around the mouth.

There are also FDA approved temporary dermal fillers. These products can contain a wide range of substances, including

• Collagen—human or bovine
• Hyaluronic acid gel—a substance naturally produced by the body
• Calcium hydroxylapatite—found in human bones
• Poly-L-lactic acid—a synthetic material

The Risks

FDA officials say it’s not uncommon for dermal fillers to cause redness, swelling, bruising or itching, and that there can occasionally be significant pain after the injections. Some users have reported infection or discoloration at the point of injection. Others have developed bumps or lumps.

In a small number of cases, users have gone into anaphylactic shock after experiencing a severe allergic reaction to the product. There can be accompanied by blurred vision, temporary loss of vision or permanent blindness if the dermal filler goes into a blood vessel.

Contact Aronberg, Kouser, Snyder & Lindemann, P. A., Attorneys at Law

At Aronberg, Kouser, Snyder & Lindemann, P. A., we have more than 35 years of experience helping people in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Contact us by e-mail or call our office at 856-429-1700. Your initial consultation is free.

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