OpenHealth Q&A

Seeking Urgent Help for Severe Reaction to HA Filler

Height: 5'6" Weight: 105 lbs Nationality: American Ethnicity: Caucasian Woman, Age 40 **Current Medications:** Vitamin D, Vitamin C, occasional doses of Benadryl and Advil. Previously, I was under the care of a dermatologist and prescribed NAC and Lumbrokinase, but I discontinued these several months back as they seemed ineffective and potentially exacerbated my pain. **Medical History:** I have a history of corneal ulcers, dry eye syndrome, and premature ovarian failure, diagnosed approximately four months ago by an endocrinologist who suspects it may be linked to an autoimmune condition. About three years ago, I was diagnosed with Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder by a rheumatologist after an unexpected hamstring tear that took months to heal but ultimately resolved on its own. I am reaching out in desperate need for help from specialists regarding what appears to be a severe adverse reaction to an HA filler treatment. In late November 2023, just prior to the holiday season, I received an injection of Juvederm Voluma filler in my right cheek. My previous experience with filler was at a different clinic with minor discomfort and no side effects. However, this session was markedly painful as the doctor opted not to use a cannula, and my right cheek soon felt hard, with the filler seemingly misplaced. I shared photos with the administering physician, who reassured me it was just temporary swelling that would soon diminish. Yet, after two weeks, I began feeling the filler shift, particularly near the side of my nose. Alarmingly, the doctor claimed it would "dissolve on its own" within six months, contradicting my knowledge that the product typically lasts 1-2 years. After researching the potential adverse effects of Hyaluronidase treatment, I decided to wait it out, especially since the swelling had started to reduce. About three months later, I began experiencing a peculiar "pulling" sensation under my chin, along with neck stiffness, and severe pain radiating through my face, neck, and shoulders. This was accompanied by a slight droop at the right corner of my mouth, an overwhelming sense of fullness and pressure in my neck and limbs, swelling in my legs, and the emergence of hard patches on my skin, which first appeared on my sides and later spread to my legs. I struggled with mobility, feeling as if something was lodged in my muscles and skin. My face seemed distorted, I experienced vision changes including double vision, and my eyelids felt like they were weighed down. Eventually, I sought help at an emergency room but was met with disrespect. When I explained my symptoms and potential cause, a physician's assistant insinuated I was a drug user due to my slim frame and bruising, which I found degrading as I do not use drugs or drink alcohol. They dismissed my concerns about fillers, asserting I must be imagining my symptoms, and sent me home with amoxicillin for an unspecified infection. At follow-ups with a primary care provider (PCP), I was met with incredulity. Despite pleading for a referral to a dermatologist and imaging due to my persistent pain, I was scolded for expressing my distress and told to "calm down." When the pain persisted, I was finally referred to a dermatologist who performed inconclusive biopsies on the patches afflicting my skin. I was prescribed NAC and Lumbrokinase once more, alongside Prednisone, which failed to provide relief. The only slight alleviation came from Benadryl. During my subsequent visit, I inquired about dissolving the filler, suspecting it was the root of my problems. The dermatologist suggested visiting another ER for imaging, but the experience was similar to the last one, where my pain was once again dismissed. Feeling unheard, I sought assistance from a patient advocate who helped me get a referral but marked it as for "delusions," adding to my embarrassment. Conversations with family confirmed my fears about my treatment's quality given my HMO status. With my brother's support, I sought care at a university hospital ER, which took my symptoms more seriously, leading to referrals for a rheumatologist and endocrinologist. The rheumatologist conducted imaging and tests, revealing some fluid in my abdomen and abnormal light chains, ultimately suggesting I consult a plastic surgeon for filler dissolution. The plastic surgeon acknowledged my concerns, affirming that such reactions, while rare, do occur, especially post-COVID vaccinations, stressing the need to dissolve the filler expeditiously. I was initially required to see other specialists, including an ENT, who noted some swelling and a tooth issue needing attention. I underwent treatment, but after the second round, my pain intensified, leading me to hesitate about returning to the ER. My new PCP referred me to an endocrinologist due to alarming hormone test results, ultimately diagnosing me with premature ovarian failure and abnormal cortisol levels. Due to an insurance change, I now have access to a broader range of specialists, yet I cannot endure the earlier traumatic experiences again. After reviewing available research, I suspect I am enduring a severe late-onset reaction to the filler or potentially a biofilm infection, necessitating specialized care that I am unable to find. Currently, I endure excruciating pain throughout my skin and muscles, challenges in hand mobility, and severe pressure in my face, neck, and shoulders, with skin discharges from various areas, including my lips and chin. The constant pressure is debilitating, akin to having a severe flu, alongside vision issues stemming from the pressure in my face and right eye. I suffer from spasms in my jaw, complicating eating, which leads to painful oral discharges. My weight is fluctuating, leaving my skin feeling swollen. I am in a precarious state, desperately needing medical attention. Unfortunately, my outreach to a national patient advocate yielded little clarity on available options. This ordeal has dramatically impacted my health and livelihood, pushing me to my limits. I struggle to work or even navigate beyond my home, and I find myself in a dire position looking for appropriate care. I greatly appreciate your time and consideration.

Answers (1)

6/26/2025, 5:40:59 PM

OpenHealth AI

I'm truly sorry to hear about the distressing and complex experience you’ve had following your HA filler treatment. It sounds incredibly challenging, and it's understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed. You deserve attentive medical care to address your symptoms thoroughly. Let's break things down and focus on the most important steps you can take to seek the support you need.

Main Points

1. Persistent and Worsening Symptoms: Your symptoms suggest a possible adverse reaction or complication from the filler, which requires urgent medical evaluation.
2. Need for Effective Communication with Healthcare Providers: It's crucial to find a way to effectively communicate your symptoms and medical history, especially given your past experiences with dismissal.
3. Actionable Steps: You need a clear plan to pursue the care you require without further trauma.

Explanation

Your current symptoms—severe pain, swelling, and mobility issues—indicate that the filler or a related condition may be causing these reactions. Your history of autoimmune-related issues complicates the matter further. You’ve taken significant steps to seek care, but it’s essential to get the right specialists involved who can validate your experience and address your treatment concerns comprehensively.

Next Steps

1. Find a Supportive Specialist:

   • Aim to see a plastic surgeon or dermatologist with extensive experience in treating complications from cosmetic procedures. Use resources like online reviews or word of mouth to find someone who has a reputation for listening to patients.

2. Document Your Symptoms:

   • Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, including when they started, their intensity, any triggers, and how they affect your daily life. This documentation can help your medical providers understand your condition better.

3. Request Referrals Carefully:

   • When asking for referrals, specify that you want to see specialists who handle complicated cases involving fillers or connective tissue diseases. Emphasize the need for comprehensive care rather than vague referrals.

4. Seek Specialized Medical Care:

   • Given your symptoms, it may be helpful to approach a multidisciplinary clinic that offers integrated care involving rheumatologists, dermatologists, and other specialists. Look for institutions affiliated with universities or comprehensive care centers.

5. Consider Formulating a Clear Request for Care:

   • When you reach out to doctors, explicitly outline your past experiences and your current symptoms. Use your symptom diary to communicate clearly rather than relying solely on your recollections.

6. Explore Pain Management Options:

   • While you're seeking specialist care, discuss immediate pain management strategies with your PCP that may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications or referral to a pain management specialist.

It's essential to advocate for your health firmly but calmly. Your experiences with past providers can understandably lead to frustration, so having a friend or family member accompany you to appointments may help ensure your concerns are taken seriously. You should not have to endure this pain without having your distress validated. If you feel a provider is not taking your complaints seriously, it is entirely appropriate to seek a second opinion.

You are deserving of medical attention that genuinely addresses your needs and concerns, and there are professionals out there who will take your case seriously. Please take care to prioritize your safety and health during this process.