How to Tell If You’ve Had Poor Results From Injectable Treatments (And What Can Be Done)

Not every aesthetic result is perfect immediately. Some treatments require time to settle, while others may need review or adjustment. Knowing the difference helps patients seek the right advice at the right time.

When Results May Still Be Settling

Some effects are normal in the early phase:

• Anti-wrinkle injections can take 7–14 days to reach full effect

• Mild asymmetry may settle naturally

• Swelling or bruising after dermal filler is common initially

If symptoms are improving, observation may be appropriate.

Signs That Anti-Wrinkle Injections May Need Review

You may wish to seek assessment if you notice:

• Eyelid or brow heaviness

• Restricted facial expression

• Uneven movement after two weeks

• Difficulty making normal facial expressions

These effects are usually temporary but should still be assessed.

Signs That Dermal Filler Results May Be Poor

Concerning signs include:

• Persistent lumps or irregular texture

• Asymmetry that worsens over time

• Overfilled or distorted features

• Pain, colour change, or increasing swelling

Some symptoms require urgent medical review.

Why Poor Results Occur

Common contributing factors include:

• Inadequate anatomical knowledge

• Over-treatment

• Incorrect product choice

• Poor assessment

• Lack of medical oversight

Choosing treatment based solely on price increases risk.

Can Poor Results Be Corrected?

In many cases, yes.

• Anti-wrinkle injection effects reduce naturally with time

• Certain fillers can be safely dissolved when clinically indicated

• Early assessment improves outcomes

When to Seek Urgent Help

Seek immediate medical advice if you experience:

• Severe or worsening pain

• Skin colour changes

• Visual disturbance

• Increasing redness or swelling

These symptoms are uncommon but require prompt attention.

Choosing a Safe Practitioner

Patients are entitled to ask:

• Who prescribes the treatment?

• What medical qualifications are held?

• How complications are managed?

• What follow-up care is available?

Transparent answers are a sign of good practice.

Final Thought

If a result doesn’t feel right, seeking medical advice early is always the safest option.

Sources

• Aesthetic Complications Expert Group (ACE) Guidelines

• British College of Aesthetic Medicine (BCAM)

• Journal of Clinical Aesthetic Dermatology

• NHS – Cosmetic treatment safety