Vessel infiltration with microcannula during filler injection: a rare but consequential occurrence

Serious complications of cosmetic filler injections include vascular necrosis if the filler is injected into an artery. The use of a microcannula for filler injection has been reported to be safer with lower rates of vascular occlusion. We report a case of vessel infiltration that was noted prior to injection with microcannula which identifies an additional safety step for injectors. This case highlights the potential for devastating vascular occlusion with microcannula use while also demonstrating methods to identify vascular infiltration prior to filler injection. The purpose of this report is to educate and encourage injectors to inspect the introducer needle prior to any filler injection in order to avoid vascular occlusion during filler injection.