Korina
1/5
I was 35 years old and have always felt content with my appearance, but like many women, I was curious about subtle enhancements. I consulted with Dr. Ami, who recommended dermal fillers in my cheeks, nasolabial folds, and nose. The goal was to create “apple cheeks” and achieve a more youthful, refreshed look.
At the time, I had already received filler in my nasolabial folds just three months prior. I had naturally high cheekbones that didn’t require additional volume, and I later discovered — that my nose had significant cartilage loss from a previous septoplasty, something I was unaware of at the time. That's why the bump I had on my nose was getting more pronounced.
I trusted the medical advice and proceeded with the injections. It was a decision that profoundly and negatively changed my life.
Immediately, I looked overfilled, puffy, and significantly older. I went from appearing 10 years younger than my age to looking far beyond it. When the filler in my nose began to migrate, I had it dissolved. That’s when the nightmare truly began.
Within weeks of dissolving the filler, I experienced severe systemic symptoms: a burning sensation in my muscles and skin, joint pain, cracking in my joints, and visible volume loss in my hands, feet, knees, and neck. My muscles began to atrophy despite consistent strength training, and my skin became thin, crepey, and almost translucent. It felt as though my body was aging by decades in a matter of weeks.
Eventually, I learned about ASIA syndrome (Autoimmune/Inflammatory Syndrome Induced by Adjuvants) through a support group for individuals affected by botched fillers and hyaluronidase damage. I discovered I was not alone — thousands of women were suffering from similar symptoms following filler dissolving procedures.
What followed were years of relentless medical appointments across the UK and abroad, extensive testing, expensive treatments, lifestyle changes, and profound physical and emotional distress. I spent a small fortune unsuccessfully trying to reverse the damage. I was forced to take time off work and became socially isolated.
Attempts to seek acknowledgment or help from SkinViva were initially dismissed. My symptoms were invalidated, my reviews deleted, and I was left feeling unheard and alone. Only recently did they listen to my story — but even then, no real solution was offered.
Five years on, I still have residual filler in my face, despite signing a consent form stating it would last only 18 months. It is now migrating toward my eye, and there is no safe or guaranteed method to remove it.
The only significant improvement I’ve experienced came from adopting a strict carnivore diet, which helped alleviate the burning sensations and joint pain.
Before this, my life was full — I was ready to start a family and move forward with confidence. These treatments stole years from me. They robbed me of my health, my vitality, and my future plans. I missed my opportunity to have a family because I have been sick.
Women face so many challenges as we age — from the hormonal shifts of perimenopause and menopause, to the emotional toll of caring for aging parents and managing the demands of life. I didn’t need the added pain, trauma, and physical deterioration brought on by these injections!
I now firmly believe that most women do not need aesthetic treatments in their 30s. The signs of aging — such as laxity and skin thinning — emerge much later, and dermal fillers are not the solution. In many cases, they can cause more harm than good.
This experience has been devastating. I’m sharing my story in the hope that it can prevent others from making the same mistake. Please be cautious, do your research, and listen to your instincts. No cosmetic enhancement is worth risking your health and quality of life.
