Complication Care —
Assess First, Correct Second

Most problems after an aesthetic treatment follow a few known patterns, each with its own answer. A lump after filler, a pale patch after laser and a dimple after a thread lift are corrected in different ways, so the first task is to work out which one you have.

At Atelier, Dr SY starts with what was done: the product or device, the areas, when, and what has changed since. If you were treated elsewhere, bring the product name and the dates if you have them.

Hyaluronidase dissolves hyaluronic acid filler and nothing else, so lumps from collagen stimulators such as PLLA and CaHA are managed in other ways. Every other condition is on the conditions page.

Most complications can wait for a planned assessment. These cannot.

1. Any change in vision, eye pain, slurred speech, new weakness of the face or a limb, or swelling of the lips, tongue or throat with difficulty breathing: call 995 or go to the nearest hospital emergency department, not to a clinic.
2. After filler, skin that turns white, dusky, purple or net-like, or pain that keeps getting worse: get a same-day medical assessment. Contact the clinic that injected you now; if you cannot reach it, see another doctor or go to A&E. The vascular occlusion guide gives the first-hour steps.
3. After laser, HIFU or a thread lift: blisters, oozing crusts, spreading redness, discharge, fever, pain or swelling that builds instead of settling, or a change in how part of the face moves: contact the clinic that treated you the same day.
4. A hot, red, tender or growing lump after filler or PLLA: arrange a prompt assessment, and do not massage it.

Outside clinic hours, take urgent signs to A&E.