In general, fillers are safe, especially when administered by an experienced doctor. Still, sometimes you hear the term filler migration. For many people, this raises questions: what exactly is it, how do you recognize it, and most importantly ... how can you prevent it?
Fillers have become enormously popular in recent years. More and more people are opting for treatment with hyaluronic acid fillers to plump up lips, improve facial contours or correct wrinkles and volume loss. Unfortunately, we also increasingly hear the term filler migration. For many, this term is still unclear: what exactly is it, how do you recognize it, and most importantly.... what can you do about it if you have it?
In this article, we explain to you step by step what filler migration means, how it can occur and what solutions are available. We also provide tips to reduce the chances of filler migration, so you can undergo treatment with peace of mind.
A filler treatment involves injecting a hyaluronic acid-based gel into the skin to add volume or soften wrinkles. In most cases, the filler stays nicely where it was inserted. After several months, your body gradually dissolves the filler. However, sometimes the filler may move to surrounding tissue. This is called filler migration.
When this happens, it can lead to different results than intended. In some cases, the displacement of the filler is subtle and barely visible, but in others it can be noticeable and distracting. For example, consider lip filler migration: in this case, the filler can move above the lip edge, creating a thickened and unnatural-looking upper lip. This effect is sometimes called a "filler mustache."
Filler migration can have several causes. Often there is a combination of several factors causing filler migration.
First, the amount of filler is influential. If too much filler is inserted in one place, when this amount does not actually fit, the filler will move faster. Therefore, it is important to place the filler in doses.
Another factor is the injection technique. If the filler is injected into the wrong layer of skin, either too superficial or too deep, the product can move more easily into the surrounding areas.
Furthermore, the type of filler is important. There are many types of hyaluronic acid fillers worldwide, each with their own thickness and structure. In fact, some fillers are very fluid and soft, while others are thicker and firmer. If the type of filler does not fit the facial area, there is again an increased risk of filler migration. Again, consider the lip example: an overly thick or hard filler in the lips will migrate faster than a soft, flexible filler.
Finally, every body is different. Factors such as individual metabolism, skin structure and elasticity help determine how a filler behaves in the skin. In addition, external influences, such as rubbing too hard or intense exercise shortly after treatment, can increase the risk of displacement.
Recognizing filler migration can sometimes be tricky. However, there are clear signs that may indicate it. With lip filler migration, you often notice a slight thickening above the lip rim, which makes the lips look less tight. You can test this by pouting your lips tightly. Do you see a noticeable thickening above your lip rim, which is also sometimes a bit lighter in color than the skin around it? If so, you may have lip filler migration.
In addition, some people experience a faint bump or small hardened ridge in the treated area. In doubt? If so, it is always wise to consult your treating physician for an expert assessment.
If you think your filler has started to migrate, it's good to know that there are several solutions.
In some cases, it may make sense to wait and see first. Shortly after treatment, swelling can cause it to appear as if the filler has moved, when in reality it has not. As the filler soaks into the skin and the swelling disappears, the problem may diminish on its own.
When migration is evident or perceived to be disruptive, it is dissolving of the filler often the best solution. This is done using hyaluronidase, a liquid that safely breaks down hyaluronic acid fillers. Within a few days, the filler is mostly gone and the treated area recovers. Then you can be treated again, but with a modified technique, better distribution or a different type of filler.
While filler migration is not always preventable, you can significantly reduce the risk. The most important step is to choose an experienced, BIG-registered practitioner. An expert practitioner will know exactly which filler is best suited for your skin and how to place it at the proper depth.
In addition, it is wise to be realistic about the amount of filler. Large amounts all at once increase the risk of migraines. Often a more subtle approach, where the treatment is performed in several small steps, produces a more beautiful and natural result. This is something we strive for at JECT Clinics at all times.
At JECT, we use our own techniques to reduce the risk of migration. For example, with lip filler, we often use the 'flat lips' method where we place filler where we see 'voids' so that the surface area is increased(vertical lifting), without projecting the lips too much forward. This prevents accumulation of filler and thus migration.
Finally, it is important that you choose a clinic that works with high-quality, approved hyaluronic acid fillers from A-brands, such as Restylane. At JECT Clinics, we treat lips and other facial areas exclusively with Restylane. These products are designed to provide predictable results and reduce the risk of migration.
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