What to do if a cosmetic treatment goes wrong

Most cosmetic and dental visits go as planned, but things can go wrong. This page gives a calm order of steps. It is general information, not medical advice and not legal advice. It cannot tell you whether what you have is a problem.

What is the decision rule?

Health first, then the clinic, then the paperwork. Do not wait for a clinic's reply if you feel seriously unwell.

When do I seek urgent care?

Seek urgent medical care, such as an emergency department or an emergency number, if you have:

• Severe or growing pain
• Trouble breathing or swallowing
• Vision changes
• Skin that turns pale, white, grey or dusky
• A high temperature or feel very unwell
• Swelling that spreads fast, especially of the face or throat
• Bleeding that will not stop

These are not a full list, and you should not use a web page to triage. If you are worried, get help. Tell the medical staff what was done and when, and show them any papers. Our page on what a consent form should tell you lists what should be in writing.

What if it is not an emergency?

Typical steps:

1. Call the clinic. Use the number on your aftercare sheet. Say what you notice and when it started. Ask what they advise.
2. Ask to be seen. A review visit is a normal request. Ask whether it is free.
3. Note what you are told. Date, time and the name of the person.
4. Photograph the area for your own record, if you wish, with dates.
5. See your own doctor if you are unsure or the clinic is slow to reply.

What should I keep?

Keep everything: the quote, the consent form, receipts, product names and batch numbers, aftercare sheets, messages and your own notes. Ask the clinic for a copy of your records. Our page on reading a treatment quote says what to expect on paper.

Questions to ask your clinic

Questions to ask your clinic

1. What do you think is happening, and what do you suggest?
2. Can you see me today or tomorrow?
3. Is the review free, and is correction included?
4. Can I have a written note of what you did and what product you used?
5. If I need another doctor, will you send them my records?
6. Who in the clinic is handling this?

Ruling: if the clinic stops replying, go to your own doctor and keep a record of your attempts.

How do I make a complaint?

Start with the clinic in writing. State what happened, when, what you want (a review, a correction, a refund) and a date to reply by. If the reply is not enough, ask the clinic for its complaints process. You can also contact the health regulator for your area, which the clinic's licence should name. Ask a legal adviser for rights and money matters. This page cannot advise on law.

Red flags in a clinic's response

• You are told it is normal, with no examination
• You are blocked on messaging
• You are told to wait without a review date
• You are pressed to sign something to stop a complaint
• You are not given your records

Common mistakes

• Waiting too long to call
• Not photographing or noting dates
• Having another clinic "fix" it without telling your doctor what was done
• Posting in anger before getting care

Where does the answer change?

If a child or someone vulnerable is affected, or the treatment was done by an unlicensed person, tell a doctor and consider reporting to the regulator. To check someone's licence, read how to check a practitioner is qualified.