Complications in Aesthetic Medicine: How to Prevent Them (and Act Safely)
In aesthetic medicine, excellence is not only measured by visible results, but by the ability to prevent and manage complications.
According to Dr. Manuel Rubio, Medical Director of CIME Academy,
“The best aesthetic doctors are not those who never face a complication, but those who know how to detect it early and act with confidence.”
Below, we share the key pillars to prevent and manage emergencies in your aesthetic practice.
What are the most common complications in aesthetic medicine?
Among the most frequent are:
- Hematomas and bruising
- Persistent inflammation or post-injection nodules
- Allergic or unexpected reactions
- Vascular occlusions caused by hyaluronic acid
- Infections at injection sites
- Partial paralysis due to poor botulinum toxin application
Most of these can be prevented with proper patient assessment, precise anatomical planning, and correct technique.
Prevention First: 5 Essential Keys
- Know your patient’s medical history
Never underestimate a thorough anamnesis. Allergies, anticoagulant use, autoimmune diseases, or previous treatments can all influence the outcome of the procedure. - Choose the right technique and product
Not all hyaluronic acids are the same, and not every area allows for the same techniques. Understanding product rheology and adapting it to the anatomical plane is essential. - Respect anatomy and risk zones
Accidents often occur due to lack of anatomical knowledge or overconfidence. At CIME, we teach doctors to master safe injection planes and identify high-risk vascular areas to avoid. - Always have an emergency kit available
Preparation makes the difference. Hyaluronidase, adrenaline, corticosteroids, antihistamines, topical antibiotics, and cold compresses should always be on hand. - Continuous training and emergency simulation
Knowing how to act in an emergency cannot be improvised. In our courses, we train doctors through real-life simulations and step-by-step analysis of emergency protocols.
And if a complication occurs? Act quickly and with clinical judgment
At the first warning signs — intense pain, color changes, loss of sensitivity, or early necrosis — time is critical.
Dr. Rubio emphasizes following a clear protocol:
- Early detection of symptoms
- Immediate suspension of treatment
- Application of pharmacological or physical measures
- Clinical and photographic documentation of the case
- Close patient follow-up
Safety does not mean avoiding all risks — it means knowing what to do and when to do it.
Training Makes the Difference
At CIME Academy, we’ve seen many doctors improve not only their aesthetic techniques but also their professional peace of mind.
Knowing that you can handle an emergency changes the way you approach every case.
Our training includes:
- Complete modules on complications and emergencies
- Real-case simulations and clinical analysis
- Hands-on practice with real model patients and post-course mentoring
Do you want to perform aesthetic treatments with total safety and know how to act in any situation?
Train at CIME Academy, with a clinical, practical, and real-case-based approach.
Location: Calle Entenza Nº 144, 08929 Barcelona – Clínica CIME Barcelona
WhatsApp: +34 690 864 816
E-Mail: secretaria@cimeacademy.com
