Cheek filler is designed to lift, sculpt and rejuvenate but what happens when it doesn’t go to plan? From overfilled cheekbones to uneven results and complications like vascular occlusion, this guide explains what can go wrong, how to recognise it, and what steps to take to fix it safely.
Understanding the Risks of Cheek Fillers
Cheek filler is a popular cosmetic procedure using hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers or biostimulants like poly-L-lactic acid to restore volume loss and support facial rejuvenation. However, as with any cosmetic treatment, results depend on facial anatomy, product quality, injection technique, and practitioner expertise.
Signs of bad cheek filler may include:
- Pillow face (overfilled, puffy cheeks)
- Facial asymmetry or unevenness
- Visible lumps or irregular texture
- Mid-face heaviness or poor blending with natural cheek contours
- Delayed complications like bruising, swelling, or redness
- Vascular occlusion, a rare but serious side effect
What Causes Cheek Filler to Go Wrong?
The most common causes include:
- Over-injection or incorrect dermal filler placement
- Lack of understanding of facial structure and facial fat compartments
- Poor quality filler material
- Inexperience with managing complications
- Failure to tailor the treatment to individual skin condition and goals
It’s also important to note that side effects like minor bruising or swelling at the injection sites are expected in the recovery time, and typically resolve in a few days.
Can Bad Cheek Fillers Be Fixed?
Yes. In most cases, filler complications can be managed or reversed with the right treatment plan. At HAVA Aesthetics in Surrey, Dr. Hadeel Nimaa performs a thorough facial assessment to understand what went wrong and identify the safest correction option.
Treatment Options for Filler Correction
1. Hyaluronidase for Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
If your cheek filler contains hyaluronic acid (commonly used brands include Juvederm, Restylane Lyft, and Belotero), a dissolving enzyme called hyaluronidase can break it down safely. This is especially useful for treating pillow face or correcting facial asymmetry.
2. Follow-up treatments
Sometimes, subtle adjustments with cheek treatments, jawline filler, or chin fillers can restore balance and achieve more harmonious facial rejuvenation.
When to See a Medical Professional
You should seek urgent medical attention if you experience:
- Intense pain at the injection area
- Discolouration of the skin
- Vision changes or blurred vision (which may indicate vascular occlusion)
- Sudden swelling or infection
A qualified medical practitioner with in-depth knowledge of facial anatomy is essential to ensure safe correction of injectable fillers and avoid further complications.
Why Choose HAVA Aesthetics?
Dr. Hadeel Nimaa brings extensive experience in cosmetic procedures and aesthetic treatments to every cheek filler journey. Every patient is treated with a personalised approach, starting with a comprehensive consultation to assess facial structure, filler history, and your individual concerns.
At HAVA Aesthetics, we use only premium cosmetic injectables and FDA-approved dermal filler products. Our focus is on delivering natural, balanced outcomes while protecting your skin and facial features.
How to Prevent Cheek Filler Complications
- Choose a qualified medical practitioner with training in cosmetic injectables and knowledge of facial anatomy
- Avoid seeking treatment from unregulated providers or using unapproved filler products
- Always attend your follow-up treatments
- Understand the risks, including side effects, before any procedure
- Follow aftercare instructions closely during your recovery time
Book a consultation with Dr. Hadeel Nimaa at HAVA Aesthetics
If you’re experiencing complications or unhappy with previous cheek filler, we’re here to help. From correcting marionette lines, nasolabial fold issues, or misplacement of face fillers, our clinic in Esher, Surrey offers expert-led solutions tailored to you.
Start your journey to confident, refreshed results, safely.
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