Cosmetic procedures have become more accessible than ever, with fillers, in particular, gaining popularity for their ability to smooth out fine lines, restore volume and create a youthful appearance. However, as with any procedure, results depend heavily on expertise. With many non-medical and unqualified practitioners, this comes with a significant downside - poor results and potential harm.

I recently treated a patient who had undergone tear trough filler at another salon and unfortunately, the results were far from satisfactory. She was unhappy with the appearance of her under-eye area, and after assessing the filler I immediately recommended dissolving it. In a professional setting, this is a straightforward and safe solution; but the real problem is how many people are suffering from badly placed or incorrect filler in the first place.
More than one million aesthetic procedures are performed in the UK each year, but a survey by Save Face revealed 83% of complaints relating to dermal fillers were about procedures performed by unqualified individuals. Currently, there are few restrictions on who can administer certain cosmetic treatments, but thankfully, new regulations are set to change this by requiring practitioners to meet higher standards of competence.
Untrained Hands, Riskier Outcomes: Tear troughs are one of the most delicate and complex areas of the face, therefore fillers need to be injected precisely into the right layers of skin to avoid complications. Those without the medical expertise necessary to assess facial anatomy properly, or don't understand the correct techniques, may end up injecting too superficially or in the wrong places, which can cause lumps, unevenness and, in worst-case scenarios, permanent damage.
The Risk Of Vascular Complications: Injecting fillers is risky if performed incorrectly and one of the major dangers with the under-eye area is the potential for vascular complications. There are several blood vessels here, and if filler is injected into one of these it can lead to severe bruising, vision problems or dangerous outcomes like tissue necrosis. Those trained in facial anatomy understand how to avoid these risks by selecting the correct injection points and ensuring the filler is placed carefully and safely.
When fillers are injected badly, the best course of action is to dissolve them and this is where expertise becomes invaluable. Enzyme-based hyaluronidase is used to dissolve hyaluronic acid-based fillers, and this is a service I offer to those dissatisfied with their results from elsewhere.
While safety is always the top priority, we can’t forget that the purpose of filler treatments is to enhance your appearance, not create additional issues. If the filler is over-injected, you may be left with a swollen or “pillow-y” under eye; if too little is used, the area looks hollow or uneven. A skilled medical professional assesses your face as a whole, considering the proportions of your features and creating a look that is both natural and harmonious.
Well-performed filler treatment should not only improve the area being treated but should also enhance your facial features in a way that feels natural. In the case of my recent client, dissolving her previous filler allowed me to correct the issue and restore her natural contour, leaving her with a more balanced and refreshed appearance.
Safety and results must go hand in hand. Choosing someone who has the proper training and expertise - in my case three decades working in Ophthalmic Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic surgery - is paramount for achieving safe, beautiful results.
Medical professionals - doctors, nurses and dentists - know how to avoid veins, arteries and other critical structures when injecting. Their understanding of the skin’s layers, as well as the muscles and nerves beneath, allows them to create a more natural, balanced result. On the whole, they operate in medical settings that offer the necessary sterility, safety and hygiene, in clean, controlled environments using high-quality, approved products. Most importantly, if complications arise, they are equipped to handle the situation.
When it comes to any cosmetic procedures, choosing a skilled professional over someone who hasn't undergone rigorous training is the difference between a flawless result and an unnecessary complication. While the cheaper prices might be a draw, always opt for a practitioner who has access to the best products and techniques. After all, it's an investment in your safety, appearance and peace of mind.
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