Safety of Dermal Filler and Steroid Injections in Close Proximity
It is not recommended to receive dermal filler injections on the same day or the day before a steroid injection due to increased risk of complications.
Timing Considerations Between Procedures
Steroid Effects on Filler
- Steroids can potentially degrade or alter the properties of dermal fillers when administered in close proximity 1, 2
- Corticosteroids are commonly used to treat filler complications, which indicates their ability to affect filler material 1
- Intralesional steroid injections are a standard treatment for adverse reactions to fillers, suggesting they interact with filler materials 2, 3
Risk of Infection
- Steroids have immunosuppressive effects that could increase infection risk when combined with the tissue trauma from filler injections
- Studies examining infection risk with steroid injections before surgical procedures show increased risk when procedures are performed within close proximity 4
- Specifically, procedures performed within 2-4 weeks of steroid injections show higher infection rates 4
Recommended Timing Protocol
Before Steroid Injection
- If planning to receive fillers before a steroid injection:
- Wait at least 2-4 weeks between filler injection and subsequent steroid administration
- This allows the filler to stabilize and reduces risk of steroid-induced degradation
After Steroid Injection
- If planning to receive fillers after a steroid injection:
- Wait at least 2-4 weeks after steroid injection before getting fillers
- This allows the immunosuppressive effects of steroids to diminish
Special Considerations
High-Dose Steroids
- For patients receiving high-dose steroids (≥20mg prednisone equivalent):
- Extended waiting period of 4-6 weeks is advisable 5
- Higher doses create greater immunosuppression and potential for complications
Infection Prevention
- Proper skin disinfection is critical before any injection procedure 6
- Avoid non-sterile applications to the skin before injections (such as ice) 6
- Be vigilant for signs of infection, which may be masked by steroid effects
Potential Complications of Close Timing
- Increased risk of infection at injection sites
- Premature degradation of filler material
- Unpredictable filler behavior or migration
- Potential for granuloma formation
- Altered immune response to the filler material
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Assuming that local steroid injections have less systemic effect than oral steroids
- Failing to disclose recent steroid use to your cosmetic provider
- Underestimating the interaction between steroids and filler materials
- Proceeding with both procedures on the same day for convenience despite risks
By maintaining appropriate intervals between dermal filler and steroid injections, you can significantly reduce the risk of complications and ensure optimal results from both procedures.