Hyaluronic acid delayed filler complications: a racial group analysis and call to action

Abstract

Injectable cosmetic treatments, especially hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, constitute over 90% of cosmetic procedures in the U.S. These fillers can cause delayed complications in patients. Given the structural differences in skin of color (SOC) patients compared to those with lighter skin types, this study aims to report the incidence of these complications across different racial and skin types. This study reviewed published literature examining delayed complications of hyaluronic acid fillers occurring across different races, ethnicities, and skin types. A PubMed search in April 2024 identified studies using specific search terms related to HA fillers and delayed complications. A limited number of articles discussed race, ethnic background or skin type when reporting HA delayed filler complications. The literature reflected differences in the rates at which AEs were reported based on patient reported race. However, to determine the true incidence of HA delayed filler complications across race and ethnic backgrounds, efforts should be made to include full demographic information in reporting these events in the literature.