Safety & Side Effects · Cheongdam & Apgujeong, Seoul Treatment Guide

How to think about risk

Every medical procedure carries some risk, including minimally invasive aesthetic treatments. It helps to separate three groups: expected effects that are part of normal healing, uncommon complications that are usually manageable, and rare but urgent problems where prompt treatment matters. A good consultation covers all three for your specific plan — not in general terms.

Risk is shaped by the procedure, your health and skin, the product or device, and the skill and judgement of the person treating you. It is also shaped by timing: planning heavy treatment the day before a long flight, for instance, leaves little room to review you if something needs attention.

What is normal after common treatments

These are typical ranges, not promises; your own course depends on your skin, the extent of treatment and aftercare.

Uncommon complications

• Infection — increasing redness, heat, swelling or discharge, sometimes with fever. Needs medical review.
• Lumps or nodules — early lumps after filler or threads often settle; persistent or late lumps should be assessed.
• Visible or palpable threads, prolonged dimpling — usually managed by the treating doctor.
• Pigment change — darkening or lightening after laser or heat, more likely with sun exposure.
• Cold-sore flare — treatment around the mouth can trigger it in people prone to herpes simplex; tell the doctor in advance.
• Nerve irritation or numbness — usually temporary after lifting or liposuction.

Warning signs: contact the clinic immediately

• Severe, worsening pain after filler, especially with pale, blotchy or dusky skin.
• Any change in vision, or eye pain, after facial injection.
• Rapid swelling of lips, tongue or throat, wheeze or difficulty breathing.
• Blisters, burns or open wounds after a device treatment that were not expected.
• Fever with a hot, swollen treated area.

If you cannot reach the clinic and symptoms are severe, seek emergency care. In Korea, 119 is the emergency number.

How Doje Clinic manages risk

1. Assessment before treatment. Dr. Byun Jeik reviews your history, medicines and anatomy in a 1:1 consultation; some people are advised to postpone (see who should postpone treatment).
2. Only as much as needed. Combining treatments only as far as needed — and not applying every device as a package — limits cumulative swelling and recovery.
3. Anatomy-led technique. Filler and thread planning draws on facial layers and vessel-aware placement; thread work reflects 17 years of accumulated experience stated by the clinic.
4. Clear aftercare. Written guidance for each treatment and timing advice for flights and events.

Your part in staying safe

• Tell us about every medicine and supplement — see medications before treatment.
• Follow the aftercare guide for your treatment and avoid heat, heavy exercise and alcohol for the advised period.
• Allow time before flying where advised — see flying after treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Are aesthetic treatments safe?

Most have a low rate of serious complications when appropriately planned and performed, but every medical procedure carries some risk that should be discussed in advance.

What side effects are normal after filler?

Swelling, tenderness and bruising are common and usually settle within days; the final shape is judged after two to four weeks.

What is the most serious filler risk?

Filler affecting a blood vessel is rare but urgent; severe pain, skin colour change or vision change need immediate attention.

How long does swelling last after a thread lift?

It varies, but swelling and tightness often settle over one to two weeks.

Can lasers cause pigmentation?

Pigment change can occur after laser or heat treatment, particularly with sun exposure, which is why settings and aftercare matter.

What should I do if I notice a warning sign?

Contact the clinic straight away; if symptoms are severe and you cannot reach the clinic, seek emergency care by calling 119 in Korea.

Related at Doje Clinic

• Who should postpone or avoid treatment
• Filler aftercare
• Thread lift aftercare
• Energy device aftercare
• Downtime guide
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Medical information on this page is general education, not a diagnosis. Suitability, risks and the final plan are confirmed in a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Jeik. Last updated 17 October 2026.