Do Dermal Fillers Cause Cancer?
Dermal filler injection is one of the common and popular methods for skin rejuvenation, shaping, and increasing volume in different areas of the face and body. This method has attracted much attention due to its quick results and low risk compared to cosmetic surgeries. However, concerns have been raised about the possible connection between filler injection and cancer. In this article, we will examine this issue scientifically and answer questions about the safety of filler injection and the possibility of cancer.
1. Types of dermal fillers
Different dermal fillers are made from different ingredients. Each of these materials has its characteristics and functions. Some of the most common injectable fillers are:
Hyaluronic acid (HA): a natural substance that naturally exists in the body and gives volume and moisture to the skin. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers such as Juviderm and Restylane are the most common types of dermal fillers and are widely used in the beauty industry.
Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA): This mineral occurs naturally in the body and is used in fillers such as Radiesse. It is mostly used to fill deep wrinkles and add volume.
Polylactic acid (PLLA): This material is synthetic and is used in fillers such as Sculptra. These fillers increase the volume of the skin over time by stimulating collagen production.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA): A synthetic material used in fillers such as Bellafill that acts as a semi-permanent filler.
2. Safety of dermal fillers
Dermal fillers are generally considered safe if performed by experienced physicians and under appropriate hygienic conditions. Most side effects from these procedures are mild and temporary, including redness, swelling, bruising, and pain at the injection site. These side effects usually disappear within a few days to a few weeks.
On the other hand, some rare but serious side effects such as infection, allergic reactions, formation of hard nodules under the skin, or blockage of blood vessels have also been reported. But can dermal filler lead to cancer? To answer this question, we must refer to scientific research in this field.
3. Do dermal fillers cause cancer?
To date, there is no conclusive scientific evidence that dermal fillers cause cancer. Numerous studies have been conducted on the safety of dermal fillers, and most of them show that these products are safe when used correctly and under medical supervision.
Hyaluronic acid (HA) and cancer
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that normally exists in the human body. Due to its natural nature, this substance rarely causes allergic reactions or serious problems. So far, no study has shown a direct link between hyaluronic acid and cancer. In some cases, research has even shown that hyaluronic acid can have anti-inflammatory and restorative properties and help regenerate tissue.
Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) and cancer
Calcium hydroxylapatite is another substance that is found naturally in the body. As with hyaluronic acid, there is no evidence that it increases the risk of cancer. It is generally considered safe and is used in many cases to treat deep wrinkles and reduce volume.
Polylactic acid (PLLA) and cancer
Polylactic acid is a synthetic substance that breaks down naturally in the body. Various studies have been conducted on PLLA and no evidence has been found that it is related to the occurrence of cancer. This substance acts more as a collagen production stimulator and helps tissue regeneration.
Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and cancer
Polymethylmethacrylate is a semi-permanent material used in fillers such as Bellafill. While this substance is used as a long-term and safe filler, some studies have shown that its misuse or injection by non-specialists can cause serious side effects. However, no direct link between PMMA and cancer has been proven yet.
4. Scientific research on filler injection and cancer
Limited studies have been conducted on the relationship between skin filler injections and cancer. Most of these studies have evaluated the safety of fillers in the short and long term. The results of these studies have shown that injectable fillers approved by health institutions such as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are safe and do not pose a risk of causing cancer.
It should also be noted that many of the concerns about the carcinogenicity of filler injections are due to the misuse of illegal substances or improper use by non-professionals. The use of unauthorized and unapproved fillers can lead to serious complications, including infection and chronic skin irritation, which in rare cases may increase the risk of more serious problems, including cancer.
5. Potential risk factors associated with dermal filler
While filler injections are generally considered safe, several factors can increase the risk of serious side effects:
Use of unauthorized or counterfeit substances: Injecting unauthorized fillers or counterfeit products that are not approved by valid health institutions can cause severe complications, including chronic inflammation and possibly stimulating cancer cells.
Injection by non-specialists: performing filler injection by people without sufficient expertise and experience can lead to serious problems. Experienced doctors use approved ingredients and correct techniques to minimize the risk of complications.
Overuse of filler: Injecting too much filler can lead to the formation of hard nodules under the skin and irritation of the underlying tissues, which may lead to long-term problems.
6. Prevention of possible complications of dermal filler
To avoid serious complications, including possible concerns about cancer, it is necessary to observe the following points:
Choosing an experienced and reliable doctor: always go to experienced and specialized doctors for filler injections and make sure of their credibility.
Use of approved materials: Make sure that the fillers used have the necessary approvals from reputable health bodies such as FDA or CE.
Post-injection follow-up: After injecting the filler, report any unusual changes at the injection site or signs of prolonged inflammation to your doctor.
Conclusion
Based on the available evidence and scientific studies, there is no direct relationship between the injection of dermal filler fillers and the occurrence of cancer. Injectable fillers approved by health agencies are generally considered safe when used correctly and under the supervision of experienced physicians. However, improper use of unauthorized substances or injections by non-professionals may increase serious risks, including infection and inflammation. To avoid any side effects, always consult experienced doctors and use authentic ingredients.
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