Risks and Recovery

All cosmetic procedures involve some level of risk, and outcomes can vary between individuals. Common side effects may include redness, swelling, bruising, tenderness, or mild discomfort in the treated area. These reactions are usually temporary and resolve within a few days. Less common risks may include infection, allergic reaction, uneven results, or prolonged changes in skin sensation. More serious complications are rare but can occur, depending on the procedure and individual factors. It is essential to discuss your medical history, expectations, and any concerns with a qualified health practitioner before treatment to ensure you are fully informed about potential risks and whether the procedure is appropriate for you.

Recovery following cosmetic treatments differs for each person and depends on the type of procedure performed. Some treatments may involve minimal downtime, while others require a short healing period before normal activities can be resumed. It is normal to experience temporary redness, swelling, or sensitivity after most procedures. Adhering to post treatment care instructions provided by your practitioner can support proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. Factors such as individual skin type, lifestyle, and overall health can influence recovery time and the final result. Your practitioner will guide you on what to expect and when you can safely return to your usual routine.

Important information
All medical and cosmetic procedures carry potential risks. The information below provides an overview of possible effects and recovery considerations for each procedure. Individual responses and healing times vary depending on personal health, skin type, and the area treated.

This information is educational and does not replace personalised medical advice. Patients should discuss their individual circumstances, suitability, and concerns with a qualified practitioner prior to treatment.

Treatment Risks and Recovery

Bunion correction surgery

Risks: Bunion surgery can involve swelling, bleeding, infection, or delayed healing. Temporary numbness, stiffness, or nerve irritation may occur. Scarring or recurrence is possible. Rare complications include blood clots or anaesthetic-related reactions.
Recovery: Recovery generally takes six to twelve weeks. Elevation of the foot and reduced activity are essential early on. Swelling may last several months and full recovery can take up to a year. Supportive footwear and physiotherapy help restore mobility.

Hammer, claw, and mallet toe correction

Risks: Temporary pain, swelling, or bruising may occur. Nerve sensitivity, stiffness, or scarring are possible. Recurrence or incomplete correction can occur, and rare complications include infection or circulation issues.
Recovery: Rest and elevation are advised for several days. Gentle walking is usually possible within one to two weeks, and most patients return to normal shoes within four to six weeks.

Non-incisional ear reshaping (otoplasty)

Risks: Bruising, swelling, or mild discomfort are common. Infection, minor scarring, or changes in sensation may occur. Rarely, sutures may irritate the skin or cause uneven results.
Recovery: Mild swelling or bruising usually settles within a week. Protect ears from pressure or trauma; avoid contact sports for six to eight weeks.

Corticosteroid injections (musculoskeletal use)

Risks: Local pain, redness, or bruising may occur. Temporary mood change, flushing, or increased blood sugar are possible. Infection, pigment change, or thinning of skin are rare.
Recovery: A brief increase in discomfort may precede improvement. Rest for several days is recommended. Most resume normal activity within a week as inflammation subsides.

Skin lesion removal

Risks: Bleeding, bruising, or infection may occur. Scarring, pigment change, or keloid formation are uncommon but possible. Recurrence or the need for additional treatment can occur.
Recovery: Healing time depends on lesion size and location. Keep the area clean and dry, change dressings as instructed, and avoid sun exposure until healed.

Topical therapy for idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis (IGH)

Risks: Temporary redness, irritation, or peeling can occur. Pigment change, mild scarring, or infection are uncommon. Allergic reaction is rare.
Recovery: Redness or flaking may last several days. Gentle skincare and strict sun protection assist recovery. Several sessions may be required.

Chemical skin-peeling (general)

Risks: Redness, warmth, or mild flaking are expected. Infection, pigment change, or scarring are uncommon.
Recovery: Peeling or tightness may last several days. Maintain hydration and use daily sunscreen until skin settles.

Light chemical peel

Risks: Mild redness, dryness, or flaking may occur. Irritation or pigment change is uncommon.
Recovery: Skin may feel tight for several days. Gentle cleansing and moisturising are recommended. Makeup can usually be worn after 24–48 hours.

Medically supervised weight-management program (using hCG protocol)

Risks: Possible fatigue, dizziness, headache, or mood change related to calorie restriction may occur. Rare hormone-related effects include fluid retention or menstrual irregularities.
Recovery: No physical recovery period is required. Medical supervision, adherence to guidelines, and gradual return to balanced nutrition are important for safety.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

Risks: Temporary redness, swelling, or mild tenderness at injection sites may occur. Infection or prolonged inflammation are rare.
Recovery: Mild swelling usually resolves within 24–48 hours. Keep the area clean and avoid strenuous activity or makeup for the first day.

Laser and light-based procedures (for vascular and pigmentation concerns)

Risks: Temporary redness, swelling, or pigment change may occur. Blistering, burns, infection, or scarring are rare.
Recovery: Redness may last hours to days. Apply SPF 30+ daily and avoid heat or exfoliation for 24–48 hours.

Medium-depth TCA chemical peel

Risks: Redness, warmth, tightness, and peeling are expected. Infection, pigment change, or scarring are uncommon.
Recovery: Peeling lasts about a week. Keep skin well-moisturised, avoid picking, and use SPF 30+ daily.

LED light therapy

Risks: Very low-risk treatment. Temporary warmth, redness, or light sensitivity may occur.
Recovery: No downtime is required. Slight flushing may appear briefly; sunscreen use is recommended if exposed to sunlight.

Laser removal of pearly penile papules (PPP)

Risks: Temporary redness, swelling, or tenderness may occur. Infection or keloid scarring are rare.
Recovery: Keep the area clean and dry for about one week. Healing typically completes within one to two weeks.

Thread-lifting procedure

Risks: Bruising, swelling, or mild discomfort are common. Infection, dimpling, or thread movement are uncommon.
Recovery: Mild tightness may last for up to two weeks. Avoid facial massage, heavy exercise, and exaggerated expressions during recovery.

Stabilised hyaluronic-acid injectable procedure (using Profhilo technology)

Risks: Redness, swelling, or small palpable lumps may occur. Infection or inflammation are rare.
Recovery: Minor redness or swelling subsides within one to two days. Avoid strenuous activity, heat, and alcohol for 24–48 hours.

Radiofrequency skin-tightening (using Forma technology)

Risks: Temporary redness, swelling, or mild discomfort may occur. Rare complications include burns, blisters, or pigment change.
Recovery: Redness usually resolves within hours. Avoid heat, vigorous exercise, and direct sunlight for 24 hours; follow practitioner aftercare.

Injectable soft-tissue augmentation procedures (using prescription-only medicines)

Risks: Temporary redness, swelling, or bruising at the injection site may occur. Lumps, unevenness, or migration of material can develop. Infection, allergic reaction, or vascular compromise are rare.
Recovery: Mild swelling or bruising typically resolves within one to two weeks. Contact your practitioner immediately for severe pain, colour change, or vision disturbance.

Corticosteroid injections (for keloid scarring)

Risks: Temporary pain, redness, or thinning of the skin may occur. Infection or allergic reaction is uncommon. Some scars may require repeat treatment.
Recovery: Mild swelling or tenderness may persist for a few days. Keep the area clean and protected and attend follow-up as advised.

Laser skin-resurfacing proceduresid scarring)

Risks: Redness, swelling, and mild discomfort are common. Pigment change, scarring, or infection may occur if care instructions are not followed.
Recovery: The skin appears red and sensitive for several days to two weeks. Avoid sun and heat until advised and use recommended post-treatment products.

Periocular micro-injection rejuvenation (using NCTF solution)

Risks: Redness, swelling, or bruising at injection sites may occur. Infection or uneven texture is uncommon.
Recovery: Redness usually subsides within hours. Gentle cleansing and daily SPF are recommended; avoid heat and exercise for 24 hours.

Xanthelasma removal

Risks: Mild discomfort, swelling, bruising, or pigment changes can occur. Scarring or infection are uncommon.
Recovery: Redness generally settles within a few days. Keep the area clean and protected from sun.

Radiofrequency brow-tightening (using AccuTite system)

Risks: Swelling, bruising, numbness, or tenderness may occur. Infection, pigment change, or scarring are rare.
Recovery: Most resume normal activities within a few days. Swelling resolves over one to two weeks and improvement develops gradually over several months.

Treatments and supportive aftercare products

If you’d like to explore how modern, evidence-based techniques may support your skin and body goals, our experienced team at GMC can provide professional guidance tailored to your individual needs.

This information is general in nature and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Individual results and suitability can vary, and it’s important to consult a qualified health professional before making any treatment decisions.

For products that complement your clinical care, visit us in-clinic.