Hyaluronic acid fillers may be longer-lasting than previously described: A case report of delayed filler-associated facial cellulitis

Abstract

Summary: Hyaluronic acid-based filler is the most popular injectable augmentation preparation due to its efficacy and safety compared to other injection fillers. The complication of infected filler is known, but it is unknown exactly how long filler persists prior to reabsorption. A case was presented of filler-exacerbated facial cellulitis that occurred 2.5 years after hyaluronic acid-based filler administration. The presence of residual filler was confirmed with magnetic resonance imaging, suggesting that hyaluronic acid-based fillers may persist longer than previously thought and act as a reservoir for regional bacterial infections refractory to antibiotics.

Keywords

• Hyaluronic acid
• Hyaluronidase
• Soft-tissue filler
• Cellulitis
• Complications of cosmetic procedures