The short answer. Every cosmetic treatment carries risk. Common effects are redness, swelling and bruising, and rare ones can be serious. Ask about risks, aftercare and what happens if something goes wrong.
Every treatment carries risk
Cosmetic treatments are a health service, and like any health service they carry risk. A good practitioner will explain the risks that apply to you, in plain language, before you decide to go ahead.
What you might hear about
- Common and usually short lived: redness, swelling, tenderness and bruising.
- Less common: infection, an allergic reaction, or a result that is uneven or not what you hoped for.
- Rare but serious: problems with blood supply to the skin, which need urgent attention.
Results and risks vary from person to person. Your practitioner can explain what applies to you, based on your health and your goals.
Questions to ask about risk
- What are the risks and side effects for me in particular?
- How do you manage complications, and what is your emergency plan?
- Who do I contact after hours if I am worried?
- Is there anything in my health history that changes the risks?
Questions to ask about aftercare
- What should I do, and avoid, in the days afterwards?
- What is normal, and what means I should call you?
- Will I have a review, and is it included?
When to seek urgent help
If you have severe pain, changes in vision, or the skin changes colour after any cosmetic treatment, contact your practitioner straight away and seek urgent medical care. In an emergency, call 000.
Our approach
Rachel explains the risks, the costs and the aftercare at your consultation and never pressures you to proceed. Read what happens at a cosmetic treatment consultation, or book a consultation in Miami on the Gold Coast.
This is general information, not medical advice. Please see a doctor for anything about your own health.
Keep reading
- Questions to Ask Before a Cosmetic Consultation
- How to Prepare for Your First Cosmetic Consultation
- What Happens at a Wrinkle Reduction, Lip or Cheek Volume Consultation?
- All guides
Sources and further reading
Published by Rachel's Cosmetics, Miami QLD. General information only, not medical advice. Last updated October 2026.
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