Ensuring a Safe Choice with Cosmetic Injectables 

You have the right to receive safe cosmetic services.

This guide provides essential information about cosmetic injectables, including anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers.

It aims to help you understand potential risks, what to consider if you're thinking about undergoing a cosmetic procedure, and where to seek help if complications arise.​

Regardless of how straightforward a procedure may seem, all cosmetic treatments carry risks. Even if you have previous experience, it’s crucial to carefully evaluate your decision each time.   If you choose to proceed with a cosmetic procedure, prioritise safety.

Be informed about the right questions to ask and key factors to consider.

Before moving forward, think about:

- The qualifications of the professionals involved
- The products being used
- The location of the procedure

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Understanding Cosmetic Injectables​

The two primary types of injectable substances are:

Botulinum toxin type A, which temporarily relaxes the facial muscles that cause wrinkles.

Dermal fillers, which add volume to wrinkles and enhance facial features.

These injectables are classified as prescription-only medications (Schedule 4), meaning only authorised and registered healthcare practitioners can prescribe and use them with a prescription for the treatment. 

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What Other Risks Should You Consider?

It's important to recognise that all procedures come with inherent risks; nothing is entirely free of them.  We aim to ensure you are fully informed about these risks before undergoing any procedure.

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Being prepared and educated on what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. This includes knowing that a qualified healthcare practitioner will provide necessary aftercare, especially if you experience any side effects or complications.

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Injectable cosmetic procedures can carry a range of potential side effects and complications. Here are some important questions to ask:

- What are the common side effects associated with this injectable?
- How can I identify a complication that requires medical attention?
- What are the expected side effects?

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Below is a list of possible side effects and complications for two commonly used products. For more details, refer to the consumer medicines information leaflet included with the packaging.

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Botulinum Toxin Type A

- Redness
- Swelling at the injection site
- Bruising
- Skin tightness
- Drooping eyelids
- Headaches
- Facial pain
- Muscle weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Nausea
 

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Dermal Fillers

- Bruising
- Swelling and redness at the injection site
- Itching
- Skin discoloration
- Vascular occlusion (blocked blood vessel causing skin tissue death)
- Permanent blindness
- Double vision
- Stroke
- Bleeding
- Infection (bacterial or viral)
- Skin ulceration
- Nodules under the skin
- Allergic reactions
- Inflammatory reactions
- Hematoma (blood collection under the skin or in deeper tissues)
- Permanent disfigurement and scarring from any of the above

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Being informed is crucial for making the best decisions regarding your care.

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