Doctors have warned that permanent fillers that are used to get rid of wrinkles and fine lines could cause severe allergic reactions months after they have been injected. Research has shown that some patients have developed problems a year after having the implants injected with some people have recurrent side effects.

A report in the Archives of Dermatology throws doubt on the safety of polyalkylimide implant gels, more commonly known as facial fillers. These fillers are used as a long-lasting fillers, as opposed to treatments such as Botox which are classified as temporary fillers.

Polyalkylide implants consist of a compound of gel and water. They tend to be injected into areas of the face such as the lips, cheeks and forehead, in order to reduce the look of lines and wrinkles. The manufacturer claims that the implants do not change structure over time and don’t move or migrate, making them the perfect option for women looking for a permanent solution to their wrinkles. Early tests on the fillers used for cosmetic purposes showed no significant signs or biocompatibility ie there appeared to be no major adverse reactions such as rejection or reaction to the implants themselves.

However, researchers looked at 25 patients who had had their fillers for over a year and discovered that there were some long-term problems associated with the injections. Some patients developed side effects such as swelling, hardening around the area, lumps near the injection site, fever, arthritis and dry eyes and/or mouth.