Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility What are the Risks of Fake Dermal Fillers? | Dr. Moulton-Barrett
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Counterfeit medical equipment and products are the scourge of the industry. The damage they can do to patients can sometimes be fatal. At the offices of Rex E. Moulton-Barrett, M.D., we believe it’s important to keep people aware of the fake products on the market so you can protect yourselves. Consider a recent article for Asia One titled “The dangers of fake dermal fillers.”

Sheela Chandran of Asian One writes, “‘The contents could have been adulterated with cheaper alternatives or compromised by heat during transportation. Using these products could lead to fever, pus formation and scarring,’ he warned. Even more worrying is an increasing number of advertisements and testimonials for fake products on Facebook, Instagram and other social media platforms. Health Ministry director general Datuk Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah explained that injectable facial and dermal fillers are not registered under the Drug Control Authority of Malaysia, but controlled and regulated by the Medical Device Act 2012. Those selling unregistered products are committing an offence under the Control of Drugs and Cosmetics Regulations 1984, which provides for a fine of less than RM25,000 (S$8,956) or a jail term of up to three years or both, under Section 12 of the Sale of Drugs Act 1952, for the first offence. He advises consumers to seek treatment only from certified aesthetic doctors, dermatologists or plastic surgeons. ‘People should be well-informed about what they use. These products come in pre-packaged sterile syringes meant for single use.’ In a survey with Star2.com readers, respondents claimed they were willing to fork out between RM1,800 and RM2,800 to ‘plump up’ hollow cheeks and areas under the eyes. Fortunately, 80% of respondents said they would seek dermal filler treatment only from qualified doctors, instead of purchasing beauty enhancement products online or from non-medical practitioners. Marketing executive Sharmini Xavier, 33, would not risk purchasing these items online. ‘The public should be aware products sold online may not be sterile. It could be a toxic blend that may lead to long-term illness, scarring and disfigurement.’ However, peer pressure and increasing marketing strategies for people to look good, may force people into sampling new products.”

If you’re considering a dermal filler, you need a doctor you can trust. Dr. Moulton-Barrett is internationally known and acknowledged. He is board certified with The American Board of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and The American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery.

Dr. Moulton-Barrett offers a variety of dermal filler options, including Artefill, Juvederm, Prevelle Silk, and Sculptra. With these simple, injectable treatments, you can see softening in signs of aging immediately. The injections smooth away wrinkles and folds and replace lost volume around the eyes and in the cheek area. If you want, we can also use fillers to fill out and sculpt the lips.

If you’re considering a dermal filler, contact us for a consultation.