Types of Dermal Filler Reactions
In general, there are three categories of reactions when performing penile enhancement with dermal fillers:
Immediate Reactions (Hours to a Few Days)
- Swelling & Bruising – This is normal and expected and resolves within a few days.
Early Reactions (Days to Weeks)
- Lumpiness/Unevenness – Temporary lumpiness as the filler settles is also normal and expected. It can take 2-3 weeks to smooth out completely. It takes time for the filler to integrate into the anatomy of the penis.
Delayed Reactions (Months to Years)
- Granulomas – Firm nodules (lumps) that form due to the body’s immune response to filler material. This type of reaction is not generally seen with the HA fillers but can be seen 2-3% of the time with PMMA (Bellafill). This type of reaction is very common with “proprietary” or non-FDA approved fillers like silicone and is a reason to avoid these fillers.
- Chronic Inflammatory Nodules – Some patients experience delayed hypersensitivity reactions Most often this is triggered by illness, vaccines, or other immune system activations.
When thinking about using dermal fillers for penile enlargement it is important to consider these reactions, both the expected ones and the unexpected ones. You want to schedule treatments and select your filler based on an understanding of these possible reactions.
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Immediate Reactions
In the days before the procedure, you want to avoid blood thinners like NSAID’s, aspirin and excessive alcohol for about two weeks. This will make it less likely for you to bruise and swell. Frankly, at GMG we know that the first day or two after the procedure can be a bit scary when your penis looks like he’s been in a fight he’s lost. We will provide a compression dressing that will help reduce swelling and speed healing. The swelling resolves very rapidly and as you will be avoiding sex it is not generally a big problem for most guys.
Early Reactions
Temporary lumpiness and unevenness is present for the first 2-3 weeks for most guys. It is not a big issue because they are aware that it is part of the normal healing process. Rarely, you may have an area that is too full or where there is not enough filler. At GMG whenever possible we like you to have a follow up appointment scheduled 6-12 weeks post- procedure. This allows for “fine tuning.” During the follow up visit we may want to add a syringe or use hyaluronidase to soften any persistent bumps. You should be aware that higher G-prime fillers, like Volux, are more likely to need fine tuning.
Delayed Reactions
Inflammatory nodules can sometimes occur months to years after your treatment. This is extremely uncommon but seems to be triggered by immune system activation from events like dental procedures, immunizations or illness. For this reason we definitely think it’s advisable to avoid dental work or immunizations for one week before and four weeks after filler injections. This will minimize the chance of a filler reaction.
It is not fully understood why these reactions occur. Dental procedures can cause bacteremia, where bacteria are in the blood. When this happens, bacteria can attach to dermal fillers and form biofilms. Biofilms are clusters of bacteria that form a film or protective barrier, making them hard to eliminate. Individuals who undergo dental cleaning immediately after filler injections are more prone to filler reactions. A very similar reaction can happen after vaccinations. The timing between filler injections and dental procedures or vaccines plays a crucial role in minimizing the risk of adverse reactions. By following the recommended guidelines of no dental work or immunizations for one week prior and four weeks after filler injections you can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications.
Granulomas are almost exclusively seen with PMMA type fillers and non-FDA approved fillers like silicone. Granulomas are where the immune system walls off the filler by forming a firm bump or nodule. Most of the time it is a minor issue as the bump is not visible and can only be felt. Some men and their partners even like them as the granulomas provide extra texture. Think ribbed condoms. When they are visible or bothersome they can be treated but because the PMMA or silicone is permanent the granuloma may not be 100% correctable. This unlikely but possible complication is important to consider when you are thinking about which filler to get. Granulomas are MUCH more common with the non-FDA approved “silicone” being used by some unscrupulous providers.
Conclusion
Just by the fact that you are reading this we know that you are putting careful thought you’re your possible enhancement. The journey to a more confident you starts with one decision so if you’re on the fence or have questions don’t hesitate to give us a call. At Get More Girth are always here to help.
What are common side effects after non-surgical penile enhancement with fillers?
The most common side effects are swelling and bruising in the first few days. It is normal and resolves quickly. Temporary lumpiness or unevenness is also common. It goes aways in 2–3 weeks as the filler is integrated.
How long does swelling last after penile filler injections?
Swelling lasts a few days, usually less than a week. GMG provides a compression dressing to reduce swelling and speed healing. Most patients are not bothered as there is no sexual activity for two weeks.
Is bruising normal after penile enlargement with fillers?
Yes. Bruising is almost an expected reaction. It improves within a week. It can be reduced by avoiding alcohol, aspirin, and NSAIDs for two weeks before treatment.
Why does lumpiness or unevenness happen after filler treatment?
Lumpiness is present until the filler settles and integrates. This is temporary goes away in 2–3 weeks. At GMG we suggest a follow-up appointments at 6–12 weeks to allow for fine-tuning if needed.
What if I still have bumps or unevenness after a few weeks?
If an area is too full or underfilled, adjustments can be made. Options include adding more filler or using hyaluronidase to soften and remove any bumps. High G-prime fillers like Volux may require more fine-tuning.
How common are granulomas after penile fillers?
Granulomas—firm nodules formed by the immune system—can occur with HA fillers, like Voluma and Volux but they are very rare. They are more likely (5-8%) with PMMA fillers like Bellafill. Granulomas are very common (almost expected) with non-FDA-approved fillers such as silicone.
Are granulomas dangerous?
No. Most are small and not visible. Usually they can only be felt. Some patients (and their partners) even like the added texture. Granulomas are treatable but complete correction may not be possible with permanent fillers. Think of tattoos.
What are chronic inflammatory nodules?
These are delayed hypersensitivity reactions that occur months to years after treatment. They are triggered by illness, vaccinations, or dental procedures. Anything which activates the immune system.
How can I reduce the risk of delayed reactions to penile fillers?
Avoid dental procedures and immunizations for one week before and four weeks after filler injections.
Why are dental procedures risky soon after filler injections?
Dental work can release bacteria into the bloodstream (bacteremia). Bacteria can then attach to filler material and form a biofilms.
Are reactions different between FDA-approved and non-approved fillers?
Yes. FDA-approved fillers like hyaluronic acid and PMMA have a low rate of serious complications. Non-FDA-approved fillers, particularly silicone, carry a much higher risk of granulomas, nodules, and chronic reactions.
How can I have a smooth recovery after penile filler treatment?
Stop blood thinners (aspirin, NSAIDs) and avoid alcohol for two weeks before treatment. Plan for a few days of swelling and a few weeks of lumpiness. Follow the GMG instructions for aftercare and contact GMG with any concerns.
Are there long-term risks from penile fillers?
Long-term risks are very low when FDA-approved fillers are used and when they are injected by an experienced doctor (not provider) like Dr. Sullivan.
What should I do if I have concerns after my procedure?
Contact us immediately. At Get More Girth, we encourage all patients to reach out with any questions or issues. We are here to support you through every stage of the enhancement process.