Cheek Filler Migration: Reasons, Signs & Prevention

Are you interested in cheek enhancement but worried about cheek filler migration? It is prevalent yet you can prevent such a case.

Cheek filler migration is where the filler moves away from its initial position to other areas of the face—causing pillow face, lumps or asymmetry.  The good news is that migration can be prevented and corrected with the proper technique.

Let’s discuss what cheek filler migration is, how to identify it, and how to prevent and correct it.

Understanding Cheek Filler Migration

Cheek filler migration is when dermal fillers move from their initial position to areas other than where they were placed. This can result in puffiness, lumps, or irregular facial contour.

Although some fillers settle naturally, unintended migration may influence the overall beauty outcome. Migration is typically reported with lip fillers but may also occur in the cheeks, jawline, and under-eye areas.

How Do You Tell If Cheek Fillers Have Migrated?

Wonder, ‘How do I know if my fillers have migrated?” These are typical symptoms of cheek filler migration. 

1. Swelling or puffiness outside the cheeks.
2. Lumps or irregular textures that weren’t there right after treatment.
3. Asymmetry of the face or unnatural shape.
4. “Pillow-face” appearance, in which the face appears too full or puffy.

If you experience any of these cheek filler gone wrong signs, talk to your injector to determine what’s going on.

Why Does Cheek Filler Migrate?

There are various causes of cheek filler migration, including the filler used, the injection process, and follow-up care.

• Type of Filler Used

Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (HA) fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane are more likely to migrate since they draw water and are soft. Certain thicker fillers intended for deep injection will migrate if injected superficially.

Moreover, fillers such as Radiesse or Sculptra are less likely to migrate as they have a thicker consistency.

• Injector’s Technique

Overfilling in one session can lead to excess filler migration, and inadequate injection depth can also cause displacement in the long term.

In some cases, regular touch-ups too soon after the initial session may make fillers migrate.

• Natural Response of Body

Some people metabolise the filler faster, resulting in surprise movement. Facial expressions and muscle activity can lead to subtle filler movements.

Sometimes, underlying medical conditions such as inflammation or fluid retention may impact filler positioning.

• Aftercare Mistakes

Massaging, rubbing, or applying pressure to the site can displace the filler. Secondly, excessive sauna, steam room, or sun exposure can cause the filler to break down.

Severe exercise within hours of treatment can add to swelling, often leading to filler migration.

What to Do if Cheek Fillers Migrate?

Don’t freak out if you notice signs of cheek filler migration. There are a few ways to fix it.

• Wait for the Natural Filler Breakdown

If the migration is insignificant, you could wait it out. Most hyaluronic acid fillers break down slowly over 6-12 months.

• Dissolving the Filler

Hyaluronic acid fillers are soluble with an enzyme known as hyaluronidase. The procedure is swift and efficacious but must be done only by a qualified injector. 

• Correctional Filler

In other instances, your practitioner can strategically place new filler to even out the asymmetrical look. This procedure requires skill in placing the new filler in the right place without worsening the migration.

How to Prevent Cheek Fillers from Migrating?

Although filler migration can happen, a few ways exist to minimise the risk and preserve natural results.

• Choose an Experienced & Qualified Injector

All injectors are not equal. Make sure your practitioner is skilled in facial anatomy and has a history of natural, well-positioned results.

• Refrain from Overfilling During One Session

Less is best! A slow approach enables the filler to settle naturally and avoids over-product placement. Your injector should layer the filler over several sessions rather than injecting too much in one session.

• Consider Getting Semi-Permanent Fillers

If you have had a previous filler migration experience, use fillers such as Radiesse or Sculptra, which are more dense and won’t move around as easily. Always talk to your injector about what kind of filler you should use for your situation, though.

• Adhere to Proper Aftercare

Taking proper care of your fillers is the key to preventing migration. Follow these tips:

• Avoid rubbing or massaging the area for a minimum of 48 hours.
• Avoid hot temperatures (saunas, hot showers, sunbathing).
• Sleep with your head raised for the initial nights to minimise swelling.
• Avoid heavy exercise for 24-48 hours after treatment.

Final Remarks

Cheek filler migration can be infuriating, but it can be avoided with the right strategy. Having a qualified injector, adhering to aftercare, and taking a conservative approach to treatment can ensure long-lasting, natural results.

If you think your filler has migrated, see a professional instead of attempting to correct it yourself. You can have beautifully sculpted cheeks without risking migration by taking good care.

Considering cheek fillers? Book a pre-treatment consultation with a good provider for optimal results!

FAQs

1. Can cheek fillers go wrong?

Yes, if done incorrectly, they can cause lumps, asymmetry, or other complications.

2. How can I make my cheek fillers last longer?

Stay hydrated, protect your skin from the sun, and follow a good skincare routine.

3. What cheek fillers do not migrate?

Calcium hydroxylapatite fillers (like Radiesse) are known for not migrating and providing natural results.

4. Can I massage migrated fillers?

Light massage may help you correct cheek filler migration, but hyaluronidase injections are recommended to dissolve hyaluronic acid fillers for proper correction.