Complications in the Cosmetic Dermatology Patient: A Review and Our Experience (Part 1).

BACKGROUND: Over recent decades, the options available to patients for cosmetic rejuvenation have expanded dramatically. The range of options commonly available to patients now includes neuromodulators, fillers, sclerotherapy, chemical peels, liposculpture, lasers, and lights and other energy devices and continues to grow. As with all therapeutic interventions, these cosmetic dermatologic procedures are not without risk. Timely recognition of complications and intervention are paramount for optimal patient outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: Part 1 of this review will focus on the common complications of injectable cosmetic procedures, such as neuromodulators, fillers, and sclerotherapy. The second part will discuss the complications of chemical peels, lasers, light and energy devices, and fat removal procedures.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A MEDLINE search was performed on cosmetic dermatology complications from 1989 to 2015, and results are summarized. Practical considerations of these complications are also provided.

RESULTS: Reports of complications after neuromodulator, injectable hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, polymethylmethacrylate, sclerotherapy, fat transfer, liposuction, cryolipolysis, chemical peels, lasers, and light sources, such as Q-switched laser, intense pulsed light, nonablative and ablative resurfacing lasers, were found.

CONCLUSION: Review of the literature revealed multiple management options for potential complications of the multitude of cosmetic dermatology procedures now available to patients.