Aquafilling filler dangers exposed with Turkish influencer’s shocking experience

The number of complications arising from aesthetic filler procedures is on the rise, with ‘aquafilling’ at the center of controversy. This cosmetic procedure has turned into a nightmare for many, including popular Turkish influencer Danla Bilic.

Aesthetic fillers: A double-edged sword?

Advancements in aesthetic procedures have made fillers increasingly popular. However, the health complications associated with these treatments have left many individuals struggling with long-term issues.

The most alarming cases involve ‘polyacrylamide fillers,’ commonly known as aquafilling, which has caused severe complications for many patients.

When fillers go wrong: A social media star’s horror story

Aquafilling, a filler frequently used for buttocks and breast augmentation, has left numerous individuals suffering after the injected substance migrated within their bodies. One such case is that of Danla Bilic, a widely followed Turkish influencer who spoke out about her ordeal on the YouTube show “Ibrahim Selim ile Bu Gece.”

“This is called aquafilling; it’s a filler injected into the body. It’s like the filler used for lips but for the body. It’s terrible. My body got infected. I was hospitalized. The fillers clustered inside my body. I underwent multiple corrective surgeries, and it’s still not over. I will likely need another operation. Based on my experience, I strongly advise against Aquafilling. The filler moved to my rib—it’s absolutely disgusting,” Bilic revealed.

Why is aquafilling so popular despite risks?

Associate Professor Dr. Can Ilker Demir, who spoke to daily Hurriyet, a specialist in Aesthetic, Plastic, and Reconstructive Surgery, aquafilling consists of technologically modified water crystals turned into gel.

“This filler is widely used for body contouring, particularly for buttocks and breasts. It is preferred because of its immediate visible effect and the fact that general anesthesia is not required. It is also used to correct hollow areas in the face and body,” he explained.

However, despite its popularity, aquafilling carries significant risks.

‘Removing the filler completely is extremely difficult’

Dr. Demir warned that the potential side effects of this procedure should not be underestimated. “The risks depend on the filler itself as well as the application technique. If proper sterility conditions are not met, if the application is performed incorrectly, or if an excessive amount is injected, it can lead to infections and deformities,” he stated.

Infections following aquafilling procedures often require multiple surgeries to remove the filler. “One major issue is the presence of counterfeit products that closely resemble the original. The use of such uncertified fillers significantly increases the risks. If complications like infections or abscesses occur, multiple surgeries may be needed to remove the filler, but this is not always entirely possible. One reason is that the filler can migrate within the body due to gravity,” Demir explained.

Was aquafilling banned?

Despite being banned in 2022, aquafilling is reportedly still in use.

“In Türkiye, only plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and Ministry of Health-certified medical aesthetics doctors are authorized to perform this procedure,” Dr. Demir clarified. However, he highlighted that unauthorized practitioners, commonly referred to as ‘underground’ operators, continue to perform the treatment, increasing the risks significantly.

The Ministry of Health closely monitors the use of aesthetic products, but patients must also be vigilant. “People undergoing such procedures should verify the credentials, licenses, and certifications of their practitioners. A frequent problem I observe is that patients do not know who performed their procedure or what was injected. This is a serious issue because knowing the details of the original procedure is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment,” Dr. Demir warned.

‘Filler can migrate to unintended areas’

What happens when Aquafilling moves within the body?

“Post-procedure infections pose a serious danger. If left untreated, they can spread and affect the entire body, leading to life-threatening complications. The only way to remove the filler is through surgery. Incisions must be made in the affected area to extract the substance,” Dr. Demir explained.

However, he cautioned that a single surgery might not be enough. “Because the filler migrates, complete removal in one operation is often impossible. Even a small amount left behind can trigger recurring infections. In such cases, further treatments, including additional surgeries and medications, may be required,” he added.

The unpredictable migration of the filler can also cause new complications. “For example, a filler injected into the breast may shift toward the armpit, or a buttock augmentation filler may migrate down the legs. Additionally, if the filler moves into muscle tissue, it can disrupt muscle integrity. This means that it’s almost impossible to predict how the filler will behave over time,” Dr. Demir explained.

With more cases surfacing, it is clear that the dangers of aquafilling should not be ignored. Experts urge individuals to be cautious when considering aesthetic procedures and to avoid uncertified practitioners.