Facial fillers have become more popular in recent years due to their non-invasive nature. Nevertheless, one of the most concerning risks associated with their use is necrosis caused by vascular obstruction. This potential complication may occur with several soft tissue fillers, but it is a rare occurrence, happening in only approximately 0.001% of procedures.
The above 39 year old medical professional presented to NUMA with vascular occlusion following a lip filler. She was given Hyaluronidase injections to dissolve hyaluronic acid filler by her doctor. She received 5 x 90 minutes sessions of Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatment at 2.0 ATA with air break. She recovered fully.
While injection complications are uncommon, they can arise from vessel damage or compression, as well as intravascular obstruction caused by the injected material. Medical guidelines exist to manage impending necrosis resulting from injections, which typically involve promptly stopping the injection and administering appropriate treatment[1,2].
What is Vascular Occlusion?
A vascular occlusion occurs when blood is no longer able to pass through a blood vessel. It may be a complete occlusion or partial occlusion, resulting in a diminished blood supply.[3]
How can HBOT help?
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy involves placing the patient in a special chamber, and pressurising the chamber as instructed by a supervising medical doctor with Hyperbaric Oxygen Medicine expertise. The combination of high pressure and exposure to pure oxygen has numerous physiological effects on the body, some of which have been demonstrated to enhance the healing of complex chronic wounds. [4]
Conclusion
HBOT is effective in oxygenating ischemic tissues, reducing edema, and promoting healing of lesions, thereby restoring affected skin and tissues without visible scarring. However, it is crucial that a qualified doctor prescribes the treatment, and a specialist in oxygen therapy carries it out responsibly, ensuring patient safety and reducing adverse effects associated with HBOT.
The beneficial clinical outcomes of oxygen therapy in hyperbaric chambers for treating facial vascular complications are apparent, and its use holds great promise for future treatment protocols addressing vascular occlusion.