Facial Biopolymers and Main Imaging Findings with Their Potential Complications: A Contemporary Review

The use of injectable fillers in the facial region has grown significantly in recent decades, primarily for aesthetic rejuvenation and for the treatment of facial lipoatrophy. These procedures employ a wide range of materials, including temporary fillers (such as hyaluronic acid or poly-L-lactic acid) and permanent fillers (such as calcium hydroxyapatite, collagen, liquid silicone, polytetrafluoroethylene, or polyacrylamide gel).

Although these materials are often detected incidentally in imaging studies-raising the challenge of avoiding confusion with pathological lesions-patients may also require radiologic evaluation to identify associated complications. The most frequent complications include infection, overfilling, material migration, foreign-body reactions, and fibrosis or scarring. In this regard, it is essential to be familiar with the specific imaging characteristics of each biopolymer and its potential complications, thus facilitating accurate diagnosis and timely clinical management.