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Cosmetic Injectables

Dermal Filler Injections: Complications and Aftercare

04 Oct 2018

Complication and Aftercare for Dermal Filler

Hi, it is Dr Murray here to talk to you about dermal filler injections in the lips.

 

Understanding Lip Dermal Fillers: Expertise Matters

At Absolute Cosmetic, we’ve observed an increase in patients seeking repairs after receiving dermal lip filler injections elsewhere, often resulting in complications from inexperienced practitioners. It’s important to distinguish between common, manageable complications and more serious issues caused by incorrect injection techniques.

While no practitioner is perfect, choosing a qualified injector is essential. Unfortunately, we’ve seen severe cases where incorrect techniques led to issues requiring correction. It’s worth noting that dissatisfaction after a first treatment doesn’t necessarily indicate a poor outcome but may simply be part of the normal adjustment period.

Rising Concerns: Media Coverage of Dermal Filler Risks

Recent media coverage has highlighted the risks of dermal fillers, including Australia’s first reported case of blindness associated with filler injections. Globally, over 100 cases of blindness have been reported due to incorrect injection techniques, yet this was Australia’s first instance. In this case, the practitioner was a nurse without a supervising doctor present, and an expired product was used, making it impossible to dissolve the filler when complications arose.

What to Know Before Your Dermal Filler Treatment

Before receiving any cosmetic injectable treatment, we strongly recommend patients ensure the following:

  1. Qualified Practitioners: If a nurse administers the treatment, ensure a qualified doctor is supervising and available in the same state to handle any complications.
  2. Approved Products: Confirm that the product being used is TGA-approved for use in Australia.
  3. Injector Experience: Ask about the injector’s training and experience. While everyone starts somewhere, ensure they have adequate supervision and support from a highly experienced professional.
  4. Complication Management: Ask about emergency procedures—who will assist you outside clinic hours if a complication occurs?

At Absolute Cosmetic, Dr. Murray and Senior Nurse Stephanie have over 40 years of combined experience in the cosmetic field, with rigorous training provided to all our staff. Lips are complex to treat, and while they may seem straightforward, recent research has shown that the vascular structure around the lips is more intricate than previously thought, making proper training crucial to avoid complications such as vascular occlusion.

Common Side Effects: Swelling and Bruising

Swelling and bruising are normal reactions following lip filler injections. Even without product, injections into the lips can cause bruising. However, some steps can help reduce these effects, especially for patients prone to excessive swelling.

Pre-Treatment Recommendations:

  • Avoid blood-thinning substances like fish oil, green tea, and alcohol for at least three days prior to your appointment.
  • Avoid ibuprofen before your treatment.
  • Schedule your appointment well ahead of any major events to allow for potential swelling or bruising.

Post-Treatment Care:

For the first 24 hours:

  • Apply ice or cold compresses for 10 minutes every hour.
  • Use topical treatments such as Arnica or Hirudoid cream if you tend to bruise easily.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol.
  • Refrain from exposing the area to heat sources like saunas or solariums.
  • Avoid applying AHAs, retinol, Vitamin C products, or makeup to the treated area.

For the next three days:

  • Avoid applying pressure to the lips; sleep on your back if possible.

For the next two weeks:

Managing Expectations

Nearly all patients will experience some degree of swelling and bruising after treatment, so it’s important to remain calm and allow time for recovery. Swelling can take up to 14 days to settle. At Absolute Cosmetic, we offer a complimentary review after two weeks to address any concerns, and we provide an emergency contact number for after-hours assistance.

 

For more information see our Dermal Filler and Dermal Filler to the Lips pages.

 

  • General disclaimer:

Patient outcomes can vary due to factors such as genetics, diet, age, exercise, lifestyle, weight, and overall health. It’s essential to understand that all invasive surgeries come with inherent risks and require a recovery period and specific care regimen.

Detailed information regarding surgical risks and complications is available on our website, but it is advisable to conduct thorough research and obtain a second opinion to ensure you are able to make an informed decision.

Please note that the information provided is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. Please be advised that surgical outcomes vary, from patient to patient, and comprehensive research is crucial before making any decisions.

 

 

ABSOLUTE COSMETIC, PERTH, W.A.

Operating out of five clinics across Perth, ABSOLUTE COSMETIC is a testament to the dedication and experience of Medical Director Dr. Glenn Murray and Director of Nursing Stephanie Murray. With over 20 years of full-time experience in aesthetic medicine under their belt, a holistic approach to aesthetic care includes a range of treatments, including non-surgical options to surgical procedures performed in our Class B Day Hospital, licensed by the WA Department of Health.

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Dr. Glenn Murray (AHPRA Registration MED0001196978) Registered Medical Practitioner, Specialist General Practitioner (specialist registration in general practice). General disclaimer: Patient... outcomes can vary due to factors such as genetics, diet, age, exercise, lifestyle, weight, and overall health. It’s essential to understand that all invasive surgeries come with inherent risks and require a recovery period and specific care regimen. Detailed information regarding surgical risks and complications is available here, but it is advisable to conduct thorough research and obtain a second opinion to ensure you are able to make an informed decision. Please note that the information provided is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice or establish a doctor-patient relationship. For real patient images, please visit our Before and After page. Please be advised that surgical outcomes vary, from patient to patient, and comprehensive research is crucial before making any decisions. This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+.

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