Warning over Cosmetic Face Fillers as Scans reveal New details of Risks
CHICAGO – New research presented this week at the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) annual meeting reveals concerning vascular complications linked to dermal fillers, commonly used cosmetic injectables. Ultrasound scans of patients experiencing adverse reactions to fillers showed a notable lack of blood flow in facial vessels, raising alarms about potential for serious, even devastating, consequences.
Dermal fillers are popular for smoothing wrinkles, contouring features like the nose and lips, and generally “rejuvenating” skin. However, injections around the nose are especially risky, according to Dr.Sigrist, as the nasal blood vessels connect to critical areas of the head. Damage to these vessels can lead to skin damage, blindness, and stroke. The new study sheds light on the extent of vascular compromise occurring in patients experiencing complications.
Researchers from the University of São Paulo in Brazil, along with collaborators at centers in Brazil, Colombia, Chile, the Netherlands, and the US, studied 100 patients with filler-related vascular complications between May 2022 and April 2025. The study found that in nearly half the cases (just under 50%), ultrasound scans revealed no blood flow in the small vessels connecting superficial to deep facial arteries. Moreover, blood flow was absent in major blood vessels in approximately one-third of the cases.
“These findings underscore the potential severity of complications from dermal fillers and highlight the importance of understanding the vascular anatomy of the face,” explained Dr. Sigrist. The research aims to improve diagnosis and perhaps inform safer injection techniques to minimize risks for those seeking cosmetic enhancements.
