A medical surgeon recently shared a video that left thousands of people in awe. The footage, taken from a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan, showed something unexpected: the patient’s hyaluronic acid fillers had not only increased in volume but had also spread to different parts of her face over time.
This discovery shocked many, as it was widely believed that dermal fillers dissolve after a while. “I didn’t think fillers could migrate like this,” one viewer commented. But the video proved it was happening, and people were left with many questions.
Dermal fillers are popular for facial rejuvenation. According to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, these gel-like substances are injected under the skin to restore lost volume, smooth wrinkles, soften creases, and enhance facial features.
It’s no surprise that millions of men and women choose this procedure every year. In fact, hyaluronic acid fillers, one of the most commonly used types, are known for being temporary, lasting anywhere from six to eighteen months.
However, Dr. Kami Parsa, an oculoplastic surgeon based in Beverly Hills, California, made a breakthrough when he posted a video of a patient’s MRI on TikTok.
The video, which quickly went viral with over 7.2 million views, showed the MRI of a 33-year-old woman who had received hyaluronic acid injections over six years. She had injected more than 12 milliliters (12 CC) of filler.
But what caught everyone’s attention was that the MRI didn’t just show where the filler was—it showed how it had migrated and spread across her face.
In the video, Dr. Parsa explains, “When I did a volumetric analysis, the total amount of filler in her face came out to 28 CC. That’s more than double the amount that was originally injected.” Viewers were stunned, and some couldn’t believe what they were seeing.
“I always thought it would dissolve or stay in place,” one viewer wrote. But Dr. Parsa clarified why this happens: “Hyaluronic acid is hydrophilic—it loves water,” he said. “This makes it attract and hold water, which leads to tissue expansion.”
The MRI sparked some concerns from viewers. One person wrote, “I just don’t see how this wouldn’t completely destroy the lymphatic system.” Another added, “FINALLY, this is being talked about.
The mass production and insane usage without WARNING. I need to know more. What about Botox?” Dr. Parsa reassured his followers, saying, “Botox has a long history and is safe when performed correctly.”
Others began sharing their own experiences with fillers, with many expressing disbelief over how long their fillers seemed to last. “I keep telling people I only got my lips done three times, 0.5ml each time, and it’s been five years since then, and my lips are still the same,” one commenter admitted.
Another shared, “I got chin filler once a decade ago, and it hasn’t needed a touch-up since. It’s stayed the same this whole time.” Some were even more surprised: “Had my lips done eight years ago. It still hasn’t gone away.”
People began to question the typical advice that fillers only last six months. As one user noted, “When fillers first came out, all injectors said they would only last six months.”
The debate over fillers doesn’t stop there. While many people have shared their positive experiences, others have questioned the overuse of injectables, especially in the celebrity world. For example, Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes were recently scrutinized after pictures of their changing appearances circulated online.
Some fans noticed their faces appeared puffier, leading to speculation that they had undergone recent cosmetic procedures. Meredith West, a physician assistant with over 15 years of experience in plastic surgery, shared a post on Instagram analyzing the couple’s appearance.
“I assume they’ve both had recent cosmetic procedures,” she wrote, suggesting both Ryan and Eva might have had Botox and facial fillers.
However, overuse of Botox and fillers can have negative effects. Nurse Gemavie warned that too much Botox can lead to excessive muscle weakness, making facial expressions look unnatural.
Dermatologist Jessica Weiser told Allure that, unfortunately, she often sees patients with “overdone filler” that leads to a “pillow-face” appearance. This happens when the face becomes very puffy with strange proportions.
“I think they both looked amazing before and didn’t need anything other than a little preventative toxin,” Meredith said in response to the Ryan and Eva pictures.
Aesthetics physician Jonny Betteridge also weighed in on the topic, analyzing the transformation of the “Barbie” actor Ryan Gosling. In a video that gained over 2.2 million views, Jonny explained how Ryan’s facial features had changed over time, noting that his cheeks and mid-face appeared fuller.
“It’s clear to see the change in his facial proportions,” Jonny observed. “This is classic of what I see when someone’s had too much filler put in this area.”
Dr. Parsa’s video of the MRI and the conversations that followed have sparked widespread discussions about the safety and long-term effects of fillers.
While some people find them helpful for restoring volume and smoothness, others worry about the consequences of overuse and the potential risks of filler migration.
As one viewer put it, “Me and my fillers are panicking right now.” The conversation is far from over, and many are eager to learn more about these popular beauty treatments.
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