Why do Dermal Fillers pose a risk to those who get cold sores?

Because any irritation to the lips can initiate the reactivation of a cold sore - this includes filler injections, laser hair removal, sunburn, etc.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

Any kind of trauma to the area where a cold sore has been present in the past can cause a current outbreak. If you have a history, there is a possibility that injecting into the same area of previous cold sores will lead to a new one because of the trauma caused by the needle. Just something to be aware of. Your injector may want to provide a preventative prescription if they are being very cautious.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

That's an excellent question. The answer is that the Herpes virus which is the cause of many cold sores is typically activated by an injection especially in and around the lips. To minimize the reaction we pre and post treat with Valtrex or another antiviral medication. Anyone with a history of cold sores and looking to have an injection in and around the area of your mouth should be on this medication prior to the treatment.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

You need to tell the doctor that you have a history of fever blisters on your lips because the trauma of getting the injections could make the blisters flare.
This can be prevented by taking oral anti viral medication before and after the procedure for a few days.

Published on Jul 11, 2012

It is not dermal fillers themselves but the actual injections that potentially stresses the body which can cause the Herpes Virus to break out. For patients who have recurrent cold sores, then it would be a good idea to prophylax so this won't happen. Why suffer, right?

Published on Jul 11, 2012