Toxins and Fillers are associated with a number of serious complications. Over 40 cases of blindness have already been reported in the literature following dermal filler injections. Anti-ageing medicine has seen a sharp rise in popularity in recent years. In 2013, 1.5 million toxin and filler treatments were carried out in the UK, a rise of 4% more than in 2012. Both are non-invasive and have high rates of patient satisfaction.

Most complications can be avoided by a thorough knowledge of patient, procedure and relevant anatomy in addition to assessing patient expectations. Even when complications arise, it is imperative that practitioners are equipped to treat, intervene and manage adverse events . This training will focus on complications arising from Botulinum Toxin (BT) and non-permanent dermal fillers such as Hyaluronic Acid dermal (HA), Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA) and Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA), the most frequently utilised products in modern aesthetic medicine.

Complications can be defined as an unfavourable evolution of treatment. Minimising complications includes conducting a thorough examination and checking a patient’s medical history, thorough record keeping and post-procedure instruction to the patient. Complications may be self-limiting or require intervention to limit and manage them . Whilst it may not be feasible to consider every possible complication, a thorough process will create a more predictable outcome.