Cheek filler gone wrong is a rare but not pleasant experience. Though fillers in cheeks are widely used cosmetic procedures to increase the volume of cheeks and get a contoured profile, sometimes things do not go as planned.
Nonetheless, cheek fillers can sometimes go wrong, like any beauty enhancement. If carried out improperly, they can cause complications and unwanted effects.
In this blog, you will explore what can go awry with cheek fillers, how you know a bad filler job has occurred, how to fix it, and how to prevent trouble.
Cheek Filler Gone Wrong: Can it Happen?
Can cheek filler go wrong? Yes, cheek filler can go wrong, but in rare cases. Some issues arise immediately, while others arise weeks or months down the line.
Below are some reasons why cheek fillers can fail:
Unqualified Injector
If the injector of the procedure is not experienced or trained, he or she can inject the filler improperly.
Overfilling
Excessive filler can result in unnatural puffiness or facial feature distortion. It is also one of the reason of lip filler gone wrong
Incorrect Placement
Injecting filler in the incorrect locations can result in facial asymmetry or undesirable outcomes.
Low Quality Filler
Utilising unapproved or counterfeit filler products can heighten the risk of complications.
Lack of Sterility
Conducting the procedure in a dirty environment can result in infections.
What are the Signs of Bad Cheek Filler?
Do you wonder what can go wrong with cheek fillers? You might observe some strange facial changes if your cheek fillers have gone wrong. Here are the usual signs to look out for:
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Too much filler injected in the cheeks pushes the skin upwards. This could make the eyes droop and appear smaller as if the sun is setting over the horizon.
Pillow Face
Want to know what does a bad cheek filler look like? Overfilling the cheeks can cause the face to appear abnormally puffy. Rather than a natural lift, the cheeks can become swollen, giving a “pillow” appearance.
Facial Asymmetry
Fillers must be symmetrical on both sides. If one cheek appears larger than the other, or if your face appears unbalanced, it may indicate the filler was incorrectly placed.
Unnatural Look
The face appears odd when the filler is injected in the wrong location or in excess.
Individuals get cheeks that are too high, too rounded, or out of place.
Skin Discolouration (Tyndall Effect)
When too much filler is injected close to the skin’s surface, the filler can create a bluish colour. It is more seen with hyaluronic acid fillers.
Allergic Reaction
Some individuals might be allergic to the filling material. Symptoms are swelling, redness, itching, hives, or increased pain in the treated area.
Infection
In the case of improper hygiene, bacteria may gain entry into the skin, resulting in infection. The signs include redness, pain, warmth, and pus in the injected area.
Can Long-Term Complications Happen Due to Bad Cheek Fillers?
Yes, serious complications can occur, although they are not common. These are more probable if the filler is injected incorrectly, poor-quality products are used, or proper care is not provided.
Granulomas
Tiny lumps or swelling due to the body’s reaction to the filler. These can occur months later and can persist for years if left untreated.
Vascular Occlusion
It happens when a filler obstructs a blood vessel, diminishing the oxygen supply to the skin. Symptoms include abnormal bruising, a pale complexion, pain, or swelling. If left untreated, it can cause tissue damage.
Tissue Necrosis
When blood supply is cut off for an extended period, the skin tissue can begin to die. This is serious and requires urgent medical intervention. Symptoms are extreme pain, swelling, and discolouration of the skin.
What To Do If Cheek Fillers Go Wrong?
How do you fix bad cheek fillers? If you believe your cheek fillers have turned out wrong, don’t worry. The issue can be corrected. Here’s what you need to do:
Seek Immediate Medical Help
If you feel pain, infection, or excessive swelling, call a doctor or your injector right away.
Reversal Treatment
If you have had hyaluronic acid fillers, your doctor may inject an enzyme called hyaluronidase to break down the filler. This will help restore the natural symmetry of your cheeks.
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If the cheek asymmetry issue is small, your injector can fix it by adding tiny amounts of filler to even out your face.
Corticosteroid Injections
If you experience inflammation, steroid injections can decrease swelling and make the area look better.
Surgery
In extreme situations, surgery can be required to remove permanent fillers or big lumps.
How to Stay Safe?
Although cheek fillers are relatively safe, there are things you can do to minimise the chances of cheek filler going wrong or related complications. Here’s how:
Select a Qualified Injector
Not all people who provide fillers are adequately trained. Ensure that your injector is a licensed healthcare provider with a background in dermal fillers. Verify their credentials, reviews. Also always check their cheek filler before and after gallery.
Know the Procedure
Before receiving fillers, ask your practitioner about the procedure, potential complications, and what to expect. This will help you have realistic expectations and avoid surprises.
Adhere to Aftercare Instructions
Good aftercare can help prevent complications. Avoid touching your face, pressing it, or doing heavy exercise for at least 24 hours after the procedure.
Observe Warning Signs
If you experience extreme pain, asymmetrical swelling, colour change, or any other unusual symptom, call your provider immediately.
Final Thoughts on Cheek Filler Gone Wrong
Cheek fillers Leeds can enhance your profile and give you a younger look, but they need to be performed properly to prevent issues. Always select a trained injector, practice good aftercare, and know the warning signs of poor filler outcomes. If something is amiss, get help right away to fix the problem.
If you take the right precautions, you can have beautiful and natural results from your cheek fillers.
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About Dr. Raj Thethi - Medical Reviewer
Dr. Raj Thethi
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC-registered medical clinic. It is led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetics.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty.
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Getting a BodyTite breast lift lifts and firms your breasts gently, with small cuts and less downtime. Unlike traditional booblift, the doctor uses tiny openings to deliver radiofrequency energy to your breast tissue. This energy heats up and then tightens the skin, making your breasts feel firmer and smoother. You get a natural-looking lift, perkier […]
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Mr Mark Gorman
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Gorman is a consultant plastic surgeon and department lead at Salford Royal, specialising in facial plastics and complex reconstructive procedures. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including oculoplastic, nasal, ear, abdominal, and microsurgical reconstruction, with particular focus on breast, head and neck, and lower limb reconstruction.
With a non-surgical and surgical skillet, Dr. Gorman is known for using advanced techniques to achieve natural, harmonious results. His approach often integrates dermal fillers and fat transfer to enhance facial features in combination with a range of deep plane facelifts.
Beyond facial aesthetics, his specialties include high-definition liposuction, allowing for precise body contouring.
Dr. Gorman’s approach to plastic surgery is rooted in skill, combining technical precision with a deep understanding of aesthetics to achieve refined and personalised outcomes for each patient.Dr.Gorman is a key opinion leader (KOL) for major UK aesthetic companies, also has taught at BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), bringing his expertise to the next generation of surgeons.
Additionally, he runs his own aesthetic training company, further extending his influence in the field.Dedicated to total well-being, Dr. Gorman created the Look Body Mind philosophy, which blends aesthetics and wellness for a holistic approach to beauty.Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or comprehensive reconstructive work, Dr. Gorman’s patient-centered care, grounded in precision, skill and an exceptional aesthetic eye, ensures that you will feel confident throughout your journey.
Sophie Harrison
Administrator
Sophie brings over a decade of customer service expertise to her role as Receptionist at Yorkshire Skin Centre. With a strong foundation in retail management and the travel industry, she is recognised for her warm, approachable manner and professional attitude—ensuring every client feels welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive.
Highly organised and calm under pressure, Sophie thrives in fast-paced environments and seamlessly manages a wide range of front-of-house responsibilities.
As the first point of contact for many clients, she plays a vital role in maintaining the clinic’s high standards of service and creating a smooth, reassuring experience for all visitors.
Beyond her professional skills, Sophie brings a vibrant energy to the team. She has a passion for travel, fashion, and music, and is currently learning both Spanish and Arabic. Her dedication to personal growth, combined with her friendly and proactive approach, makes her an indispensable part of our team.
Herezel McCourt
Senior Surgical Sister(RN)
Herezel McCourt is a highly experienced Registered Nurse at Yorkshire Skin Centre, bringing over two decades of clinical expertise across diverse surgical and medical specialties. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Perioperative Practice from Huddersfield University, UK, and a BSc in Nursing from Cebu Doctors’ University in the Philippines.
Herezel has spent the majority of her career within the NHS, most recently as a Clinical Specialist in Ophthalmic Surgery at The MidYorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.
Her extensive background includes roles in operating theatres, anaesthetic care, ENT, urology, plastics, maxillofacial, orthopaedic, and podiatric nursing, among others.
Renowned for her professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care, Herezel is also a trained mentor, assessor, and ANTT trainer. She has led initiatives in recruitment, risk assessment, SOP development, and patient care pathway planning. Her leadership credentials are strengthened by a Level 3 Award in First Line Management and a strong commitment to staff development and peer support.
Herezel is a calm and supportive presence to both patients and colleagues, and her attention to clinical excellence makes her an invaluable member of the Yorkshire Skin Centre team.
Rhea Levitt
Clinical Assistant
Rhea Levitt is a highly experienced Clinical Assistant at Yorkshire Skin Centre, known for her hands-on approach, warm personality, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. With a solid background in healthcare settings, Rhea brings valuable clinical expertise and administrative support to the team.
Her wide-ranging experience includes phlebotomy, wound care, ECGs, diabetic foot checks, B12 injections, and assisting in minor surgical procedures. She is also skilled in patient health monitoring, spirometry, and providing support during clinics such as coil fittings and cancer care.
Rhea’s well-rounded clinical knowledge is matched by her excellent organisational skills and a calm, compassionate approach to patient wellbeing.
In addition to her clinical duties, Rhea supports the practice by carrying out internal audits and ensuring best practices are upheld throughout the clinic. She plays a key role in maintaining smooth day-to-day operations and upholding the high standards that Yorkshire Skin Centre is known for. Dedicated, professional, and always ready to help, Rhea is an invaluable member of the team who helps ensure that every patient receives attentive, safe, and seamless care.
Raman Kaur
Administrator
Raman holds a Bachelor of Science with Bachelor of Education (BSc, BEd) from India, a qualification that integrates scientific studies and teaching education, equipping her with a strong foundation in both fields. She is currently building her career in the UK healthcare industry, bringing her hardworking, compassionate, and friendly nature to the team. With valuable experience in customer service and patient care, Raman plays a key role in managing day-to-day operations, handling bookings, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all patients.
Her dedication to excellence and passion for healthcare and client well-being make her an integral part of our team.
Nichola
Practitioner
Nichola is a highly skilled practitioner with a strong background in beauty and holistic therapies. She earned her Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification with distinction from the Yorkshire College of Beauty and further enhanced her expertise with Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO-certified, an internationally recognized gold standard in beauty and spa therapy, ensuring clients receive the highest level of care and treatments. With 18 years of customer service experience, primarily in the hospitality industry, Nichola deeply understands the importance of building strong client relationships. She is known for her hardworking nature, punctuality, and dedication to continuous learning.
Passionate about skincare and wellness, Nichola is committed to expanding her expertise in a leading skin clinic. She believes that the knowledge and experience she gains will be invaluable in delivering the highest standard of care to her clients.
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Dr Camila Valencia
Aesthetic Doctor
Dr Valencia has over 10 years experience in the aesthetic field. Originally from Ecuador, she moved to the UK in 2014. Dr Valencia performs a wide range of treatments at the Yorkshire Skin Centre including injectables, consultations and minor surgery.
Dr Valencia comes from a family of surgeons and is proud to have been taught by some of the best physicians both at home and at the School of Medicine in Guayaquil -Ecuador.As an entrepreneur, she founded her own Laser Hair Removal company and worked in various specialist Aesthetic Medicine clinics in Madrid for 11 years.
In 2014 she moved to the UK with her family and now works very closely with Dr Raj, as an associate doctor at the Yorkshire Skin Centre.
Dr Valencia is committed to helping her patients to understand and enhance their appearance, always with a view to achieving a natural-looking result.
Qualifications:
MSc Cordoba University 2009
PGDip Alcala University 2007
DMed University of Santiago 2003
Sophie Walker
Expert Practitioner
Sophie is a highly experienced practitioner. She passed her Level 3 Beauty Therapy with a distinction at Yorkshire College of Beauty, also completed her Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO qualified. CIDESCO is the world standard for beauty and spa therapy meaning you are getting the very best of treatments at an internationally examined standard.
Sophie works in the clinic 5 days a week and performs many treatments such as HydraFacial, Forma, Laser Therapy, Morpheus8, UltraClear Laser, fat freezing, ThermaVein, chemical peels, derma planning and much more. Rest assured you are in safe, experienced hands.
Nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty. He is nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics and a skilled trainer up..Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Sharan Thethi
Clinic Director
Dr Sharan BDS has a bachelor’s degree in Dentistry and Oral Surgery. She is married to Dr Raj and has taken a step back from dentistry to help run the family venture. She is the Manager of the Yorkshire Skin Centre.
Gemma Elliott
Patient Care Coordinator
Gemma is a highly experienced and versatile practitioner with experience in both performing treatments and running a busy aesthetic clinic.
At YSC, Gemma is Dr Raj Thethi’s clinical assistant but also works as a practitioner in the clinic and is fully experienced with all the technologies to a very high standard. Rest assured you are in safe, experienced hands.
Dr Raj Thethi
Founder and Medical Director
Dr Raj is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. With a successful career in aesthetics and a passion for patient care, Dr. Raj found that his expertise in facial aesthetics was a natural progression where he could showcase his warm and friendly demeanour alongside his exceptional skills.
Dr Raj specialises in advanced facial aesthetics, offering a wide range of treatments and skin procedures. With his extensive training and experience in both medical and aesthetic fields, he brings a unique perspective to delivering exceptional results.
Driven by his passion for patient satisfaction, Dr Raj established the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. Located in a comfortable and welcoming environment, the clinic provides a luxurious and refined setting for patients seeking aesthetic treatments…. Read More
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Sarah Coates
Patient Representative
Hi, I’m Sarah Coates. I’m a Senior Change Manager, Hogan accredited coach, proud mum of 2 beautiful boys and am blessed with incredible friends to get into mischief with!
As I headed towards my 40th birthday, my life changed in a way that I could never have imagined and I came off that roller coaster with a new lease of life, with an understanding of the importance of self care and a huge amount of gratitude.
I love to travel, have a passion for interior design and enjoy sharing all that life has to offer with my beautiful family and fabulous friends.
If I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing at the park with my boys, enjoying the sun in Ibiza, listening to music or at the bar with a glass of fizz!
Bailey
Patient Representative
Hi I’m Bailey and I live in North Yorkshire with my husband and two working spaniels. I have been seeing Dr. Raj for facial rebalancing due to trauma and anti-aging procedures for six years.
Abie Ansari
Patient Representative
I am Senior Manager currently working for a small charity based in Leeds. My role is both professionally stimulating and challenging. No two days are ever the same. It includes aspects of advocacy, client rights, individual representation and inclusivity.
One milestone that resonates deeply is the creation of support groups, safe spaces where clients can openly share their stories. Witnessing the impact of these connections has fuelled my determination to improve the journey of others.
Through my own aesthetic endeavours , I’ve developed an unparalleled understanding of the emotional nuances tied to cosmetic treatments. This empathy allows me to offer sincere reassurance and guidance, especially during moments of vulnerability, in an era of aesthetic care that marries technical expertise with genuine human understanding and a person centred approach.
In my spare time I love the outdoors, enjoying hillwalking, taking part in sport, managing my bountiful allotment, and enhancing my cookery skills trying different cuisines (..no Masterchef yet).. and travel.
Dr. Farzana Khan
Consultant and General Surgeon
Dr. Khan earned her MD from Copenhagen University in 2003 and boasts over 20 years of medical expertise. Her early career was dedicated to dermatology and gynaecology across Yorkshire, and in 2011, she became a qualified GP from The Royal College of General Practitioners in London.
Dr. Khan’s commitment to women’s health is evident through her achievements. In 2012, she earned a Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Linda Conway
Sales Administrator
Linda comes from a sales and customer record management background.
Here at YSC she personally manages a huge volume of enquiries that come through our clinic everyday, regarding treatments and special offers. She has extensive customer service knowledge and also has wide knowledge of the beauty industry having been a successful manager for Virgin Vie cosmetics.
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Mr Jeeva
Consultant Ophthalmologist & Oculoplastic Surgeon
Mr Jeeva is celebrated for his mastery in aesthetic eyelid surgery. By adopting a patient-centric ethos, he delivers personalised treatments that amplify natural beauty and revive youthful vitality.
He has completed a prestigious fellowship at the Royal College of Surgeons, specialising in cosmetic plastic surgery. This rigorous training has endowed him with advanced techniques in aesthetic surgery, ensuring outcomes that are both beautiful and natural.
With a specialised fellowship in oculoplastic surgery, Mr Jeeva has honed his skills in delicate eyelid surgeries, tear duct disorders… Read More
Alana Hunter
Independent Nurse Prescriber
Alana embarked on a career in nursing in 2008, following her comprehensive training and graduation. Since then, she has accrued a wealth of experience working in a variety of roles within both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Known for her dedication and exceptional skills, Alana rapidly ascended into management, and for the past seven years, has been serving as a matron.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained her clinical competencies and academic studies. She initially earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, later advancing her studies to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber. Her commitment to continuous professional development led to the completion of her full Master’s degree.
Alana’s passion for skin spurred her to further specialise in this field. In 2017, she pursued training in facial aesthetics, a decision that marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her career. Since then, she has been affiliated with several leading skin clinics across the UK, where she has honed her expertise and built a reputation for excellence. Her extensive knowledge and experience in skin led her to become an expert medical trainer and since 2021, Alana has been imparting her knowledge at an award-winning training academy. Previously, she held the prestigious position of National Trainer for SKN Clinics, where she educated a variety of medical professionals, including plastic surgeons.
While Alana enjoys all aspects of skin, she has a particular fondness for medical-grade skin care, which she believes offers unparalleled benefits to patients. Her dedication to patient care and her professional knowledge and skills, make her a standout figure in this field. Through her work, Alana has positively impacted numerous lives, helping patients achieve their best skin health and aesthetic goals. In her trainer role, Alana is known for her meticulous approach and her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner, ensuring that her trainees are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care. Her leadership and mentorship have been crucial in elevating the standards of practice within the industry.
Alana’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing and aesthetics. Her professional journey reflects a blend of clinical expertise, academic achievement, and a genuine passion for improving patient care. As she continues to advance her career, Alana remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field, continually enhancing her skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to her patients and to train the next generation of skin care professionals.
Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos specialises in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. He graduated from the University of Athens Medical in 2009 and completed his basic surgical training in Liverpool. After earning a PhD with honours in DIEP clinical anatomy research in 2013, he completed advanced surgical training in plastic surgery across Yorkshire and Liverpool, including a cosmetic fellowship in the North West.
Mr Lymperopoulos further honed his expertise with two prestigious breast reconstruction microsurgical fellowships at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals in London. His extensive experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy provides a profound understanding of surgical anatomy and aesthetics, benefiting procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift. Additionally, he is highly skilled in abdominoplasty, often enhanced with liposuction or muscle repair, especially post-pregnancy.
Specialising in skin cancer treatment, he adeptly handles Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. He offers a comprehensive range of breast and body cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer, breast reduction, uplift, tummy tucks, and liposuction. Combined procedures, such as “mommy makeovers,” are also available to restore post-pregnancy body contours.
Trained in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Mr Lymperopoulos performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), as well as toxin and filler injections. Currently, he serves as a Consultant at Mid Yorkshire Teaching Hospitals, specialising in breast reconstruction and skin cancer surgery, and holds an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at the University of Leeds.
An advocate for education and research, Mr Lymperopoulos has over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and a PhD in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As an Education Lead, he developed “The Yorkshire FRCS (Plast) Course” to aid UK trainees in their exit exams. His innovative training simulator was awarded first place in Innovation at the BAPRAS meeting in 2021.
Blepharoplasty
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:
Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.
Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.
Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.
Types of Blepharoplasty:
Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.
Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.
Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.