Covid-19 Vaccine and Dermal Fillers
The arrival of a COVID-19 vaccine is a great relief and a genuine cause for celebration.
As with any medication, side effects are possible. We choose medications when the benefits outweigh the risks. Fortunately, the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines appear remarkably safe and it is why the FDA has authorized their use in the United States. Of the side effects reported in the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine trial, 3 of the 30,000 participants as of December 2020 developed temporary facial swelling.
These 3 participants had a history of cosmetic fillers. In the Pfizer vaccine trial, such an outcome has not been reported. Fortunately, in the cases of the 3 Moderna participants, the side effect did not persist. So what does this information mean to us and all of you?
First of all, swelling has been a known low risk of fillers for many years, even before the COVID-19 vaccines. Such uncommon occurrences may be associated with other stressors or inflammation in the body such as recent dental work, illnesses like the flu, or other vaccines. So in this trial, it is certainly possible that the 3 events of localized swelling were due to the interaction between the immune response after vaccination and the filler. Importantly, we do not know how many of the 30,000 participants had filler and did not have a reaction.
If you are a filler patient, we don’t suggest avoiding the vaccine in light of these rare reports. We recommend you consult your doctor about your overall candidacy.
Finally, what should you do if you are concerned about developing one of these rare swelling reactions? Please contact us if you have concerns but remember, rare swelling reactions are not new and those that occurred in the COVID-19 vaccine trial resolved quickly. We would most likely consider some treatment options to expedite resolution for any of you.
We certainly hope this perspective helps clarify what is understood to date. As always, we will continue to exercise the most scrupulous care for all of our patients. And remember, until the CDC advises otherwise even if you’ve been vaccinated, please continue to wear a mask.
Sincerely,
The Doctors and Entire Team at Scherl Dermatology
OTHER COSMETIC DERMATOLOGY
Botox®
Botox is a popular wrinkle reduction treatment that minimizes the appearance of fine lines and creases by temporarily paralyzing the muscles responsible for dynamic wrinkle formation.
Forma Radiofrequency
Forma is the first auto-adjusting, non-invasive, thermal skin treatment for deep and uniform tissue stimulation.
Fractional Laser Resurface-Ablative CO2 Laser
This technology is radically different from the classic standard laser resurfacing, which removes the entire upper layer of skin.
Fractora Radiofrequency
Fractora is a fractional skin resurfacing and subdermal tissue coagulation device that bridges the gap between fractional lasers and surgical procedures.
Hyaluronic Acid (Juvederm®, Belotero®, Restylane®, Lyft®)
The most popular class of dermal fillers is based on hyaluronic acid (HA), a sugar compound that is naturally found in human skin.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
This type of device was first introduced into the aesthetic market in the mid-1990s. Though IPL may look, sound and feel like a laser, it is not classified as a true “laser” because it uses multiple wavelengths of light whereas lasers use only one wavelength of light.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular cosmetic procedures over the past decade. More and more men and women are opting for this permanent hair reduction technique.
Radiesse®
Radiesse is a new breed of synthetic compounds that contain calcium hydroxyapatite, a substance that is found naturally in our bones.
SculpSure
SculpSure is an innovative treatment to reduce stubborn pockets of fat with minimal pain and downtime. Each treatment takes just 25 minutes, making SculpSure the perfect solution for individuals with busy schedules.
Sculptra
Sculptra is a volumizer to help restore youth by giving back the volume we lose due to loss of fat and bone in the face. Sculptra is Poly-L-lactic acid in suspension.
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Scherl Dermatology
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
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CONTACT US
Scherl Dermatology
140 Sylvan Ave. Suite 302,
Englewood Cliffs, NJ 07632
Same-Day Appointments Now Available
Scherl Dermatology
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