A few weeks ago, a patient came to our practice worried about small, palpable lumps in her lip that had formed after a hyaluronic acid treatment performed by another provider. She was concerned and wondered if these lumps were dangerous and if the result would be permanently ruined. This situation is not uncommon in our practice, and perhaps you have similar concerns. But don't worry – in most cases, there are simple solutions! Read on to learn what causes such lumps and how we can treat and prevent them.
What are the lumps after a hyaluronic acid treatment?
After a hyaluronic acid injection, small lumps or nodules may form under the skin. These are often perceived as small hardenings or irregularities and can be a cause for concern for the patient. But what exactly are these lumps?
- Cause: Accumulation of hyaluronic acid
In most cases, hyaluronic acid is distributed evenly throughout the tissue during injection, but in some cases, uneven distribution can occur. Lumps form when the injected material clumps together into a solid mass. This can be influenced by several factors, including the injection technique, the consistency of the hyaluronic acid gel used, and the individual skin condition of the patient.
- Lump or swelling?
It's important to distinguish between a lump and normal swelling. Swelling typically appears immediately after the injection and subsides within a few days. Lumps, on the other hand, can still be felt weeks after the treatment. In most cases, however, they are not dangerous and can be treated effectively.
- Inflammatory reactions
In rare cases, lumps after a hyaluronic acid injection can indicate an inflammatory reaction. Such reactions occur shortly after treatment and are usually characterized by redness, pain, and heat in the affected area. This requires prompt medical attention to rule out infection or other more serious complications.
What can be done about lumps after hyaluronic acid treatment?
If lumps form after hyaluronic acid treatment that do not represent inflammation or swelling, there are several measures that can be taken to treat them.
- Massage of the treated area
Often, a gentle massage of the treated area is a simple and effective way to smooth out minor lumps. Gentle pressure helps distribute the hyaluronic acid more effectively, allowing the irregularities to dissolve over time. However, it is important to be guided by an experienced doctor to achieve the desired effect without compromising the treatment's outcome. It is also crucial that the massage is only performed several weeks after the treatment, once any swelling and bruising have subsided.
- Dissolving lumps through hyaluronidase injection
If a lump doesn't disappear with massage, hyaluronidase can be used. Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that can specifically break down hyaluronic acid. By injecting it directly into the affected area, the lump can be effectively dissolved. This is a quick and safe solution for correcting unwanted irregularities and is frequently used when the lumps don't disappear on their own after a few weeks.
- have patience
In many cases, patience is simply required. Smaller lumps can dissolve on their own as the body gradually breaks down the injected hyaluronic acid. This process can take several weeks to months, depending on skin type and the amount injected. It is important to have the progress regularly monitored by a specialist to ensure that no complications arise.
How can lumps be prevented after hyaluronic acid treatment?
The best way to prevent lumps begins even before the actual treatment. Choosing the right doctor plays a crucial role, as does proper aftercare.
Choose an experienced doctor.
A key factor in preventing lumps after a hyaluronic acid injection is choosing the right doctor. In our practice, we focus on experience and precision – both crucial for optimal results.
Why is choosing the right doctor so important?
The injection technique and the expertise of the treating physician are crucial for the success of the treatment. An experienced doctor knows precisely how deep and in what quantity the hyaluronic acid should be injected to ensure even distribution within the tissue. Incorrect techniques or excessive amounts of hyaluronic acid can cause the gel to clump together and form lumps. Furthermore, an experienced physician understands the anatomical features of the face and can place the product accordingly.
Technology and precision:
- Injection depth: The correct depth at which the hyaluronic acid is injected plays a crucial role. If the gel is injected too superficially, the likelihood of lump formation is higher.
- Product distribution: An experienced doctor ensures that the hyaluronic acid is distributed evenly. This requires not only technical skill but also an aesthetic understanding of the patient's face.
In our practice, we place great emphasis on regular professional development and use only the most modern techniques to achieve the best possible results. We take the time to advise each patient individually and plan the optimal treatment for them.
Proper aftercare
A successful hyaluronic acid treatment doesn't end with the injection; aftercare is just as important. Patients should avoid touching the treated area for the first 24 hours after the procedure to prevent the hyaluronic acid from shifting. Strong facial expressions or intense facial movements should also be avoided.
In our practice, we will give you precise instructions on how to behave after the treatment to ensure the best possible result. If any lumps do appear, we will schedule follow-up appointments so we can intervene quickly.
Conclusion
Lumps that appear after hyaluronic acid treatment are harmless in most cases, but can be aesthetically bothersome. With the right injection technique, careful product selection, and good aftercare, they can usually be avoided. If lumps do occur, there are effective treatment options such as massage or hyaluronidase injections. Choosing an experienced and specialized doctor is key to minimizing the risk of complications and achieving the desired aesthetic result.