What Happens if Things Don’t Go as Planned

Raising a Concern

Cosmetic procedures are generally low risk when performed by trained practitioner using approved products. However, like any medical treatment, there is always a possibility of complications or outcomes that don’t meet expectations.
This page explains how potential risks are managed, what to do if you experience a problem, and what support is available to ensure your safety.

Understanding the Risks

All cosmetic procedures carry some degree of risk. These may include:

• Bruising, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site
• Lumps or unevenness
• Infection
• Allergic reactions
• Rare but serious complications, such as vascular occlusion (a blocked blood vessel)

Your practitioner should clearly explain these risks as part of the informed consent process, and take steps to minimise them using safe technique, proper hygiene, and high-quality products.

What If You Experience a Problem?

If you have concerns following a cosmetic procedure such as unexpected pain, changes in skin colour, or results that worry you it’s important to act promptly.

1. Contact Your Practitioner First
   Always contact the practitioner who treated you as your first step. They are best placed to assess and manage your situation, and should have protocols in place to deal with adverse events.
2. You Should Be Given an Emergency Contact
   For treatments with higher risks, such as hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, NZSCM-accredited practitioners are required to provide an after-hours contact number. This is especially important in the rare event of complications like vascular occlusion, which requires immediate intervention to prevent long-term damage.
   While the NZSCM holds its members to these standards, it is important to confirm with your practitioner in advance that they provide a reliable emergency contact number for your peace of mind.
3. NZSCM Adverse Event Advice Line
   If you are unable to reach your provider, or need additional support, the New Zealand Society of Cosmetic Medicine (NZSCM) offers an adverse event help line. This service is available to both practitioners and patients and provides clinical guidance on managing complications.
4. Health and Disability Commissioner (HDC)
   If your concerns are not resolved, and you believe your rights under the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers’ Rights have been breached, you can make a formal complaint to the Health and Disability Commissioner. This should be considered a last resort after attempting to resolve the issue directly with your practitioner.

How NZSCM-accredited Doctors Help Minimise Risk

All NZSCM-accredited doctors are trained to recognise and manage complications promptly and safely. 
They are required to:

• Have Hyalase on-site when administering hyaluronic acid fillers, enabling immediate treatment if dissolving the filler is necessary (e.g. in the case of vascular occlusion).
• Provide after-hours contact details for all patients receiving hyaluronic acid filler treatments, ensuring timely support in the event of any complications.
• Maintain regular training and triennial reaccreditation, including a formal practice audit every three years. This process ensures their knowledge, clinical skills, and safety protocols remain current and aligned with the latest NZSCM standards.