By Daniel I. Wasserman, M.D.
It has been well-reported for several years now that after moderate to severe influenza-like illnesses, patients can experience inflammation and swelling of their filler depot in their face or elsewhere. This can happen even several years after the filler was placed. The exact mechanism for this phenomenon is uncertain and unpredictable. Certain fillers have been observed to experience this effect more often than others, but that is anecdotal and not confirmed by large studies. We believe the fillers most at risk are Vollure and Volbella, both of which we do not use in our practice for these exact reasons. Voluma could be one of these as well, but this has been reported to occur markedly less often than Vollure and Volbella. This is not classically seen with the Restylane family of fillers, which we primarily use, but it could still be experienced with any hyaluronic acid filler. Of note, we are unaware of any reports of this occurring with Sculptra.
Now when considering the vaccine and its possible effect on fillers, we are now aware that both vaccines can create a post-vaccination inflammatory reaction in the body. An individual’s depot of fillers may be caught up in this inflammatory storm as an innocent bystander and become inflamed and swollen. This should not deter anyone from receiving a vaccine. The benefits vs risks of the vaccine are unequivocally in favor of vaccination. However, patients who have had fillers in the past, and perhaps the aforementioned ones, should be vigilant about any reactions. At this time, the only treatment available for these reactions is simple over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen, anti-histamines, and if needed, a prescription for Prednisone from your dermatologist. While reports making the headlines are from the Moderna vaccine, the physicians at Skin Wellness Physicians believe that either vaccine could potentially cause the inflammatory reaction.
In summary, vaccinations are safe and a history of receiving a facial filler should not be a deterrent for receiving the vaccine.
Daniel I. Wasserman, MD
Fellowship-trained Laser and
Cosmetic Dermatologist
Fellowship-trained Mohs Surgeon
Board Certified Dermatologist
Dr. Wasserman is a board certified dermatologist with fellowship training at Harvard Medical School in laser and cosmetic surgery, as well as fellowship training in Mohs skin cancer surgery. He has contributed as a dermatology expert for online and print magazines. In addition, he frequently lectures to professional societies and organizations on his diverse research. For more information about skin care visit the Skin Wellness Physicians website at www.skinwellnessflorida.com
239.732.0044
www.SkinWellnessFiorida.com