Overview
- Research presented at the RSNA detailed 100 suspected filler complications examined with vascular ultrasound between May 2022 and April 2025 across six clinics.
- Ultrasound detected absent blood flow in 42% of perforator vessels and 35% of major facial arteries, with frequent involvement of the lateral nasal artery.
- Experts now advise pre‑ or intra‑procedural ultrasound mapping and ultrasound‑guided hyaluronidase injections rather than blind treatment.
- The nose carries higher risk because its vessels communicate with arteries to the eye and brain, creating potential for blindness or stroke if filler enters a vessel.
- Hyaluronic acid fillers are widely used and serious events are considered rare, while UK surgeons note ultrasound is not yet standard as a licensing scheme consultation is planned for 2026.