Under-eye hollowness and migrated HA filler treated with collagen generating dermal filler

Hyaluronic acid dermal fillers are a very popular type of product, and there are numerous brands that offer high-quality HA fillers.  Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in cartilage and skin. Dermal fillers made from hyaluronic acid stimulate the body’s production of collagen, a type of protein that gives structure to the skin. The downside of using them long-term is that eventually, we can get the ‘’pillow face’’ and/or they also happen to ‘’migrate’’, especially when one tries to fix a migrated filler by adding more to even out the area (pillow face result there and then).

Collagen is a naturally-occurring protein found in our bones, cartilage, tendons, and skin. The collagen present within our skin is responsible for maintaining the smooth, firm appearance of our face when we are young. However, as we get older, our body gradually produces less collagen, and existing collagen begins to weaken and break down. Thus, we start to lose that suppleness and volume of youth, and soft tissue begins to sag and wrinkle. Collagen-generating fillers work by helping to stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen in areas where it has depleted over time.  

Immediately, the natural fullness of your skin will be restored as the support structure of your skin is strengthened by increased collagen production. Collagen-generating filler is particles of polylactic acid or similar materials, which are biodegradable i.e. disintegrates in your body to water and co2. In the process collagen generating dermal filler produces collagen which is the main extracellular matrix ingredient making skin toned up and firmer.

The long-lasting benefits of collagen-generating fillers will continue to be developed and be seen over time— as the body absorbs the filler, it also builds its own healthy new collagen to naturally supplement the treatment. 

Collagen-generating dermal filers require advanced training to administer Lanluma, Sculptra, Ellanse.

Duration of results: 2-4 years.

Results: firmer skin, more natural appearance without puffiness, and bloated look

How to ‘ fix ‘ migrated hyaluronic acid dermal filler?

Filler Migration is defined as the process of dermal filler spreading or “migrating” to another area beyond its original site of injection. There are various reasons filler ‘’migrates’’ starting from over-filling, to the wrong type of product for a specific client to poor technique and lack of experience of a practitioner. Whilst migration is mainly spoken about in terms of lip fillers, it can also happen anywhere that HA dermal filler is injected. This includes the tear-through, jawline as well as cheeks.  

1. Dissolving with hyaluronidase

Dissolving hyaluronic acid dermal filler is one of the simplest solutions. Hyalase is made up of the chemical Hyaluronidase, which is a soluble protein enzyme. It works by breaking up the bonds that hold the Hyaluronic Acid molecules (the filler) together.

However, oftentimes we forget how much dermal filler was used and how we used to look prior to the initial starting point of treatment (sometimes over 10+ years). It gives us a bit of a shock seeing ourselves without it. Also, hyaluronidase (dissolver) can affect our own hyaluronic acid production.  In most cases, your natural hyaluronic acid will restore itself, but it has been reported that it could also cause long-term damage to tissues.

2. Increasing skin metabolism i.e. skin treatments

Treatments such as HiFu, RF (radiofrequency), RF microneedling increase skin metabolism and have proven effects of breaking down hyaluronic acid. It does not reach the deepest layers but often works in the superficial skin layers giving skin tightening effect and reducing skin puffiness, breaking down migrated hyaluronic acid fillers.

Downside: can be expensive and require a course of treatments.

Positives: you will get much better skin within the process requiring fewer dermal fillers, in the long run, also giving you a much more natural look.

3. Waiting for hyaluronic acid dermal filler to ‘’go’’ on its own with time

Science has proven that hyaluronic acid can stay and be found in tissues for over 10 years following hyaluronic acid dermal filler treatments. Migrated dermal fillers are not in the target placement area therefore their metabolism / breaking down process slows down ( often this can be seen in migrated lip fillers in mucosal (inner mouth ) tissues )

Not an option!

At Aestha Clinic our doctors are highly qualified and experienced. After a thorough examination of your skin and track record of filler use, your practitioner will determine the right and best treatment protocol for your skin type, age, and specific concern.

Get in touch for consultation via our app. We look forward to seeing you in the clinic soon!