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Cheek Filler Gone Wrong: Signs, Solutions & Prevention

Written by an Expert Aesthetic Content Writer Lisa.
Reviewed by Expert Medical Director Dr. Raj Thethi
Published on: March 10, 2025
Fillers

Cheek Filler Gone Wrong

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:

  • Sunset Eyes

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.

  • Extra Filler

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.

View all posts by Dr. Raj Thethi

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