How To Know If Lip Filler Has Migrated

Underlying medical conditions such as autoimmune disorders or collagen vascular diseases may affect the body’s ability to retain filler.

Natural Breakdown of Hyaluronic Acid:

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, but it is constantly being broken down and replenished. This process occurs at varying rates depending on factors like age, genetics, and overall health.

Lip fillers containing hyaluronic acid will eventually be metabolized by the body’s enzymes. The duration of a filler injection varies depending on the type used, but it typically lasts between 6 to 18 months.

As hyaluronic acid is broken down, the volume and fullness provided by the filler gradually diminish. This natural breakdown process contributes to the temporary nature of lip filler results.

Excessive Movement or Trauma to the Lips

Lip filler migration occurs when hyaluronic acid gel, the main ingredient in most lip fillers, moves from its intended location beneath the surface of the lips.

Several factors can contribute to this unwelcome movement:

**Excessive Talking or Movement:** Lip fillers are generally designed to hold their shape, but repetitive movements like talking, smiling, and eating can cause the gel to shift gradually over time.

Trauma to the Lips: Direct injury to the lips from activities like vigorous kissing, biting your lip, or even accidental bumps can disrupt the filler’s placement, leading to migration.

**Overfilling:** Injecting too much filler into a small area can increase the risk of it spreading.

**Incorrect Injection Technique:** The way filler is injected plays a crucial role. If not placed carefully and precisely, the gel may be more prone to migrating. Inexperience or improper training can contribute to this issue.

**Type of Filler Used:** Different fillers have varying densities and compositions. Some are designed to be less mobile than others, but even “fixed” fillers can migrate with repeated trauma or movement.

**Individual Anatomy:** Factors such as the thickness of your lips, muscle structure, and skin elasticity can influence how well filler remains in place.

Recognizing the signs of migrated lip filler is essential. Look for lumps, bumps, asymmetry, a distortion of the lip shape, or filler appearing outside the intended area.

Improper Injection Technique

Lip filler migration occurs when hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers move from their intended placement in the lips to other areas of the face.

One primary cause is improper injection technique.

When HA filler is injected too superficially, it’s more likely to migrate. The deeper layers of the lip provide a more stable environment for the filler to remain in place.

Injecting too close to blood vessels can also increase the risk of migration. If the filler enters a blood vessel, it may be carried away from the desired location.

Another technique-related issue is overfilling the lips. Overinjection puts excessive pressure on the surrounding tissue, making it more likely for filler to leak and migrate.

Furthermore, using incorrect needles or cannulas can contribute to migration. Needles that are too thin may not adequately displace the tissue, while larger needles can create pathways for the filler to escape.

It’s crucial to emphasize that proper training and experience are essential for safe and effective lip filler injections.

A skilled injector will understand the anatomy of the lips and surrounding tissues, use appropriate injection techniques, and inject the correct amount of filler.

What to Do If You Suspect Migration

Consult a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Suspecting that lip filler has migrated can be concerning, as it can affect both aesthetics and potentially cause complications. A board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial injectables is your best resource for diagnosis and treatment.

Firstly, don’t panic. Migration isn’t always a major issue, and early detection is key to addressing it effectively.

Schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon experienced in dermal fillers. During this appointment:

They will thoroughly examine your lips and surrounding tissue to assess the extent of any migration.

Be prepared to describe any changes you’ve noticed, such as lumps, asymmetry, or shifts in shape that weren’t present after your initial filler procedure.

The surgeon may ask about the type of filler used, when it was administered, and any other cosmetic treatments you’ve received.

A thorough medical history review will also be conducted to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

Based on their findings, the surgeon will recommend a course of action. This might include:

Monitoring: If migration is minor and not causing discomfort, your surgeon may suggest monitoring the situation closely with follow-up appointments.

Dissolving the Filler: For more significant migration or if it’s causing concerns, the surgeon can dissolve the migrated filler using hyaluronidase, an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid fillers. This procedure is typically done in-office and requires minimal downtime.

Reconsidering Placement: In some cases, depending on the location of migration, your surgeon may recommend adjusting the placement of future filler injections to prevent further issues.

Remember, it’s crucial to seek professional medical advice if you suspect filler migration. Early intervention can minimize potential complications and ensure optimal results.

Do Not Attempt DIY Correction

If you suspect your lip filler has migrated, it’s crucial to avoid attempting any DIY corrections.

Migrating filler can create an uneven or unnatural appearance and potentially lead to more serious complications if mishandled.

Here’s what you should do:

1. Consult a qualified medical professional immediately. This is essential for accurate diagnosis and safe treatment.
2. Gather information about the filler used, including brand name, type, and date of injection.** This will help your doctor determine the best course of action.
3. Describe your symptoms in detail** to your doctor. Explain when you first noticed the migration, any changes you’ve observed in its appearance, and if you have any pain or discomfort.