The science behind fillers: why they stay where they're injected

There are many misconceptions about fillers, and one of the most common is that they can migrate throughout the body. This idea can make patients unsure about hyaluronic acid filler treatments. Fortunately, this is largely a myth. Let’s delve deeper into the science behind fillers and why they stay exactly where they’re injected.

How fillers work and why they do not migrate

Hyaluronic acid fillers are designed to adhere to tissues at the injection site. This is due to several factors:

1. Cross-linking and viscosity

   Hyaluronic acid fillers are chemically stabilized by cross-linking, which is essentially building bridges between different hyaluronic acid molecules. This process creates a gel structure that prevents the hyaluronic acid from being broken down quickly by the body. The degree and manner of cross-linking determines how firm or elastic the filler is. Fillers with a higher viscosity and larger particles stay in place better and are less affected by movements or gravity.

2. Tissueintegration

   Once a filler is injected, it binds to the surrounding tissue and attracts water, further anchoring itself. This process helps the filler stay in place and prevents it from spreading to other areas.

3. Specific injection techniques

   Experienced physicians use proper injection techniques to place fillers at the correct depth and in the correct layer of the skin or underlying tissue. Injections into deep structures such as the supraperiosteal plane (directly above the bone) ensure that the filler remains stable. When fillers are injected correctly, they stay in place.

What happens if the filler does seem to migrate?

Sometimes patients report that a filler seems to move. In specific cases, migration is a possibility:

Natural degradation and redistribution

  Fillers are gradually broken down by the body. During this process, a slight shift may occur, especially in areas with a lot of movement, such as the lips. However, this does not mean that the filler travels through the entire body.

When too much lip filler is used, you get the so-called 'filler moustache'

Incorrect injection technique

 If a filler is not placed at the correct depth in an area with a lot of movement, such as the lips or under the eyes, it may move slightly due to natural muscle activity.

Excessive injection or swelling

  Too much product in one place can push the tissue pressure into surrounding areas. This is one of the reasons why experienced doctors always dose carefully and evaluate the effect.

Do you have migration? Don't worry, we can always dissolve the filler!

Conclusion

Science shows that fillers do not migrate through the body. Due to their chemical properties, tissue integration, and proper injection techniques, they stay where they are placed. By choosing a skilled practitioner with knowledge of anatomy and filler techniques, patients can enjoy safe and predictable results.

Do you have any questions about fillers and how they work? Let me know!😊