Hyaluronic-acid Fillers – Contraindications, Side-Effects
1. Why a separate safety post?
HA fillers are considered safe in qualified hands, yet no medical procedure is completely risk-free. Knowing the basic rules helps you make informed decisions – and act fast if something feels off.
2. Absolute contraindications – do not have fillers if you have:
| Condition | Why? |
|---|---|
| Pregnant or breastfeeding | No safety data available |
| Active skin, dental or respiratory infection | May spread bacteria/virus to the injection site |
| Herpes outbreak on the treatment area | Risk of a stronger flare-up |
| Severe allergy to HA, BDDE, lidocaine or latex | Risk of acute allergic reaction |
| Known bleeding disorder / severe coagulation problem | Higher risk of haematoma and infection |
3. Relative contraindications
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Auto-immune diseases
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Ongoing isotretinoin therapy (within the last 3 months)
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Blood thinners
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Major dental work within the last 6 months
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Keloid tendency or pronounced scarring
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Neuromuscular disorders (relevant when combined with toxin)
Unsure? Ask us – no question is silly when it concerns your health.
4. Expected, mild reactions
These are almost always harmless and settle on their own:
| Reaction | Typical duration | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Swelling | 24–72 h | Cool the area, sleep with head elevated |
| Tenderness / mild itch | 2–4 days | Paracetamol if needed |
| Bruising | 3–7 days | Arnica cream / concealer |
| Light redness | Hours–1 day | Keep skin clean, no make-up for 8 h |
5. Uncommon but manageable issues
| Issue | What it looks like | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tyndall effect | Blue-grey tint in thin skin | Can be dissolved with hyaluronidase |
| Nodules/lumps < 4 weeks | Palpable unevenness | Usually massage + review visit |
| Late reaction (> 4 weeks) | Swelling off and on | Hyaluronidase |
6. Rare but serious complications
| Warning sign | Possible cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Pale/white skin + severe pain + “marbling” right after injection | Vascular occlusion (blocked vessel) | Contact us immediately – DM @aqpclinique + e-mail; we have hyaluronidase on standby |
| Increasing redness, warmth, throbbing pain day 2–10 | Infection | Send photo + description |
| Sudden vision loss or dimming during injection (extremely rare) | Occlusion of an ocular artery | Your injector will stop instantly and follow emergency protocol |
Vascular occlusion occurs in < 0.003 % of cases – rapid action usually means full recovery.
7. How you can minimise risk
Before treatment
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Avoid alcohol, Omega-3 and strong NSAIDs 24 h prior.
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Postpone your appointment if you feel unwell or have any infection.
After treatment
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No make-up for 8 h, no heavy exercise/sauna for 24 h.
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Sleep with head slightly elevated the first night.
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Use SPF 30+ during the first week.
8. When to contact AQP?
| Contact immediately | Contact within 24 h |
|---|---|
| Severe pain, pale skin, vision change | Persistent swelling > 72 h |
| Worsening discolouration/marbling | Fever, increasing redness or heat |
| Sudden lumps weeks/months later |
Fastest channel: DM @aqpclinique
E-mail: kontakt@aqpclinique.no (include a photo + brief description)
We’ll follow up as quickly as possible – safety is included in the treatment fee.
9. In short
Fillers are reversible, biocompatible and have a low complication rate – good information is still the best insurance. Read this list once more, save our contact info, and arrive prepared yet relaxed.
We look forward to creating natural, harmonious results for you.
This blog was crafted with AI assistance and carefully reviewed by AQP’s medical-aesthetic practitioner.
