Cosmetic Emergencies: Real Cases Every Doctor Should Know
Aesthetic medicine may appear predictable and safe, but real cases show us that being prepared for the unexpected is essential. Learning from the direct experiences of other physicians not only helps avoid mistakes—it teaches you how to act with clinical judgment in critical moments.
In his book “Emergency Situations in Aesthetic Medicine,” Dr. Manuel Rubio compiles real cases from his practice, offering an honest, clinical, and educational perspective. Here we share some of these cases and their key lessons.
Case 1: Vascular occlusion after nasolabial fold filler
Situation:
A patient developed intense pain, pallor, and a reticulated skin pattern after hyaluronic acid injection in the nasolabial fold.
Action:
The physician immediately stopped the injection, massaged the area, applied heat, and began injecting hyaluronidase in multiple planes.
Result:
Necrosis was prevented. After follow-up, the skin regained vascularization within 48 hours.
Lesson:
✔️ The key was early detection and having both hyaluronidase and the knowledge to use it decisively.
Case 2: Severe edema after periocular botulinum toxin
Situation:
A few hours after treatment, the patient developed swelling, redness, and tearing in one eye.
Action:
The physician evaluated the inflammatory response, prescribed oral corticosteroids, and applied local cold. Infection was ruled out.
Result:
Progressive improvement over three days. The patient received daily follow-up and emotional reassurance.
Lesson:
✔️ Adverse reactions are not always technical errors—sometimes the body responds unpredictably.
Having a clear protocol and providing emotional support is essential.
Case 3: Unexpected allergic reaction in a patient with no history
Situation:
Minutes after a facial injection with a hyaluronic acid product new to her, the patient experienced generalized redness and mild shortness of breath.
Action:
An intramuscular antihistamine was administered, and she was monitored with vital signs under observation.
Result:
Adrenaline was not required. No serious complications occurred.
Lesson:
✔️ Adrenaline, antihistamines, and corticosteroids must always be available in the clinic.
Never underestimate an allergic reaction—even patients without prior history can surprise us.
Conclusion: Every emergency is a learning opportunity
What all these cases share is that the physician acted quickly, calmly, and with sound clinical judgment. Why? Because they were trained, prepared, and equipped with the necessary resources.
At CIME Academy, we train our students to respond with clinical and emotional confidence in these situations. In aesthetic medicine, it’s not only about “enhancing beauty”—it’s about treating patients with the same responsibility, rigor, and humanity as in any other medical specialty.
Do you want to learn how to manage real complications like these and become a safe, decisive aesthetic doctor?
Train at CIME Academy, where theory becomes hands-on practice and clinical cases turn into real experience.
Location: Calle Entenza Nº 144, 08929 Barcelona – Clínica CIME Barcelona
WhatsApp: +34 690 864 816
Email: secretaria@cimeacademy.com
