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Why My Hyaluronic Acid Filler Swells Months After Injection?

Why my hyaluronic acid filler swells months after injection?

Is it normal for fillers to swell months later? Advice from Beauty Bar in Ware Hertfordshire

Cross linked hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers can cause swelling even years after injection due to several reasons

 

Hygroscopic nature and water retention

  • Hyaluronic acid is very hygroscopic, meaning it attracts and binds water from surrounding tissue.
  • Even years after being injected, cross linked HA remains in the skin as a gel, dynamically responding to body fluid balance.
  • High temperature or inflammation increases vascular permeability, which leads to fluid accumulation in HA and localised swelling.

 

Metabolic changes and inflammatory response

  • HA undergoes slow degradation by hyaluronidase enzymes and oxidative process.
  • During fever, infections, or autoimmune reactions, the body releases pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α).

They activate HA degrading enzymes, altering its structure and causing swelling, and increase vascular permeability, leading to fluid retention in areas with dermal filler.

 

Interaction with the extracellular matrix

  • HA exists in dynamic balance with proteins, collagen, and water in the skin.
  • Over time, skin aging, collagen loss, and tissue changes can affect placement of HA, this leads to localised swelling or shifting of the filler.

 

Late-onset immune reactions

  • Some people may develop delayed immune responses to HA, especially after infections, vaccinations, or immune system fluctuations.
  • This can trigger formation of granulomas or chronic inflammation, which could lead to temporary swelling years after your treatment.

 

This phenomenon is documented in scientific literature and is not uncommon!

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Book your filler treatment at Beauty Bar in Ware Hertfordshire

At Beauty Bar in Ware, Hertfordshire, we offer high quality hyaluronic acid fillers and a range of dermal filler treatments to meet your beauty goals. Whether you’re looking for lip filler, cheek enhancement, or filling fine wrinkles, we make sure to give you safe and stunning results. We welcome clients from Ware, Hertford, Stevenage, Welwyn Garden City, St Albans, and across Hertfordshire who seek professional aesthetic treatments in a friendly and relaxing environment.

Book your appointment today and let us help you achieve your desired look with confidence!

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Calcium Hydroxyapatite vs. Poly-L-Lactic Acid in Hertfordshire

Calcium Hydroxyapatite and Poly-L-Lactic Acidin Hertfordshire.

CaHA and PLLA Dermal Fillers in Hertfordshire.

CaHA and PLLA Key Differences.

Calcium Hydroxyapatite (CaHA) and Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA) are both popular dermal fillers, each with unique characteristics. Here’s a breakdown of their differences in terms of composition, action, applications, techniques, and side effects.

Composition

  • CaHA: Contains microspheres of calcium hydroxylapatite, a mineral found in bones and teeth, suspended in a gel carrier made of water, glycerin, and carboxymethylcellulose.
  • PLLA: A synthetic, biodegradable polymer derived from lactic acid. It comes as a powder that is mixed with sterile water before injection.

Mechanism of Action

  • CaHA:
    • Provides immediate volume and structural support after injection.
    • The gel carrier adds initial volume, while the calcium microspheres stimulate collagen production over time.
    • Results last up to 12-18 months.
  • PLLA:
    • Stimulates the body’s natural collagen production, not providing immediate volume.
    • As PLLA particles dissolve, collagen gradually replaces them, leading to a slow increase in skin volume and thickness.
    • Results develop over several months and can last up to 2 years.

Application

  • CaHA:
    • Suitable to add volume in areas like the cheeks, jawline, and hands.
    • Ideal for moderate to severe facial wrinkles and folds.
    • Provides a lifting and contouring effect.
  • PLLA:
    • Focused on facial volume loss and correcting deeper lines like nasolabial folds. Often used as an alternative to tear trough filler.
    • Best for generalised facial volume loss due to aging or lipoatrophy.
    • Primarily for overall volume restoration rather than precise contouring.

Technique

  • CaHA:
    • Usually injected with a cannula into deeper dermal layers.
    • Precise placement is important to avoid lumps or granulomas.
  • PLLA:
    • Injected into deeper dermal or subcutaneous layers.
    • Requires 2-4 sessions spaced several weeks apart.
    • Proper dilution is necessary to avoid complications like nodules.

Side Effects

  • CaHA:
    • Common side effects: swelling, bruising, and redness at the injection site.
    • Rare risk of granuloma formation.
  • PLLA:
    • Similar common side effects as CaHA.
    • Slightly higher risk of nodules if not properly diluted.
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Dermal fillers in Hertfordshire and Essex.

CaHA and PLLA are both effective for facial rejuvenation but address different needs. CaHA is ideal for immediate contouring and provides collagen stimulation over time. PLLA is designed for a gradual increase in volume with long-term collagen production. Your choice between the two depends on whether you want immediate results or a gradual improvement in facial volume.

We welcome clients from Hertfordshire area including Stevenage, Cheshunt, Hatfield, Hertford, Ware Broxbourne and all the surrounding areas. Contact us today to book your appointment.