Pre-Treatment Imaging and Baseline Assessment
Under the supervision of Plastic Surgeon, Dr Eddy Dona
At Bella Plastic Surgery, we are committed to ethical, evidence-based practice and assessing every patient as an individual. Our approach prioritises patient safety, transparency and informed clinical decision-making when discussing non-surgical treatment options.
New Patients to Our Clinic
For new patients visiting our Bella Vista clinic, it is important to obtain a clear understanding of any previous aesthetic treatments performed to the face or body, particularly those involving soft-tissue volumising or skin treatments. A history of repeated or extensive treatments may increase the risk of aesthetic concerns, including:
- Alteration of natural facial contours
- Fluid retention (oedema)
- Chronic inflammation or fibrosis
- Scarring or keloid formation
- Migration of previously placed product
- Other soft-tissue changes
Establishing an accurate baseline assessment supports responsible treatment planning and patient safety.
MRI and Ultrasound Imaging
MRI Imaging as Part of Pre-Treatment Assessment
Where clinically indicated, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) may be recommended for patients who have previously undergone volumising or enhancement treatments elsewhere. MRI can:
- Assess the location and distribution of previously placed product
- Evaluate soft-tissue volume and depth
- Identify abnormal oedema, fibrous tissue, scarring, encapsulation, or chronic inflammation
Scope of MRI Imaging: MRI may focus on one or more facial regions previously treated:
- Lips and perioral area – upper and lower lips and surrounding tissue
- Nose – nasal bridge, tip and surrounding structures
- Midface – under-eye area, cheeks and nasolabial region
- Lower face and jawline – chin, jawline and adjacent areas
- Temples and lateral face – temple region and outer cheek
- Forehead and brow – forehead and brow region
Where multiple areas have been treated, MRI can provide a comprehensive assessment of product distribution, tissue response and anatomical relationships.
Radiological Reporting: Reports may include mapping of visible product deposits, depth, morphology, tissue relationships and documentation of fibrosis, scarring, oedema, nodularity, cystic or granulomatous changes and vascular or lymphatic compromise.
Ultrasound Imaging
Ultrasound may be used as an adjunct to MRI to help establish baseline findings. All imaging is performed externally by trained sonographers and radiologists. Bella Plastic Surgery does not perform in-clinic ultrasound for procedural guidance or emergency complications.
Understanding Potential Risks of Non-Surgical Treatments
While non-surgical treatments such as muscle relaxants, volumising treatments, skin boosters, RF microneedling and laser procedures are generally safe when performed by experienced practitioners, patients need to understand that all non-surgical procedures carry potential risks and side effects. These may range from mild, temporary reactions such as redness, swelling or bruising, to rare but serious complications affecting the skin, soft tissue, nerves or vascular structures. A thorough understanding of these risks, along with appropriate pre-treatment assessment, including imaging, clinical evaluation, and safety protocols such as the forearm prick test, helps ensure informed decisions and supports patient safety throughout the treatment process.
Muscle Relaxant Treatments
Muscle-relaxant treatments are designed to relax certain facial and body muscles that contribute to the appearance of lines and wrinkles. They can also be used in masseter muscles to reduce jaw tension or for hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) in targeted areas.
As prescription-only medications, muscle relaxants require an initial consultation and assessment with one of our doctors to determine suitability and develop an individualised treatment plan. Once a prescription has been issued, the treatment can be safely administered by a qualified cosmetic nurse under medical supervision.
What to Expect
- Treatments are minimally invasive and involve precise placement into targeted muscles.
- Pain is typically minimal and brief, with no anaesthetic required.
- Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after treatment.
- Initial effects may be noticeable within 2-4 days, with full results appearing in up to 10-14 days.
- Results generally last 2-3 months, though individual responses may vary. Ongoing treatments may extend the duration of effect.
Alternative Treatments
Options include choosing not to treat or pursuing other non-surgical procedures such as laser therapy, chemical peels, dermabrasion or surgical interventions. Each alternative carries its own risks and potential complications.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Common and Mild Side Effects:
- Pain, burning, stinging, redness, swelling or bruising at the treatment site
- Temporary muscle weakness (e.g., drooping (ptotic) eyelids or eyebrows)
- Swelling of the eyelids, skin tightness, itching or mild headaches
- Nausea or flu-like symptoms
Rare or Less Common Risks:
- Spread of muscle relaxation effects beyond the treatment site
- Symptoms such as loss of strength, double or blurred vision, difficulty speaking, swallowing or other systemic effects
- These are more likely in patients receiving higher doses or with underlying medical conditions
Need for Re-Treatment and Additional Costs
- Results vary between individuals, and some patients may require additional treatments to achieve optimal outcomes.
- Other procedures or complementary treatments may be recommended.
- Additional costs may apply for follow-up or maintenance treatments.
Post-Care Information
What to Expect:
- Swelling, redness, or bruising at treated areas
- Tenderness or tightness in the treatment area
- Mild headaches may occur; over-the-counter pain relief can be taken if necessary
Aftercare Recommendations:
- Avoid touching or massaging treated areas for at least 2 weeks
- Avoid facials, waxing, chemical peels, IPL, laser, or other skin treatments for 2 weeks
- Limit sun exposure and avoid extreme temperatures for at least 2 weeks
- Avoid strenuous exercise or alcohol for 24 hours
Follow-Up:
- Results may take up to 14 days to fully develop
- Further treatments may be needed for optimal results
- Contact the clinic immediately if severe reactions occur or seek emergency care if necessary
Volumising and Skin Booster Treatments
Volumising and skin booster treatments involve the precise administration of naturally occurring or biocompatible substances into targeted areas of the skin. These treatments may include ingredients such as synthetic complex sugar products, amino acids, polynucleotides and other supportive compounds designed to support hydration, help maintain skin structure, and temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines. Results vary between individuals, and multiple treatments may be recommended to maintain the desired effect.
These treatments are prescription-only medications. Before any procedure, patients must undergo a consultation and assessment with one of our doctors, who will develop an individualised treatment plan. Once prescribed, the treatment can be administered by a qualified cosmetic nurse under our medical team’s supervision.
How It Works
- Volumising treatments deliver a naturally occurring substance into targeted areas of the skin using fine needles or cannulas.
- Skin booster treatments provide hydration and support to the skin’s dermal layer.
- Effects are temporary and gradually diminish over time.
Alternative Treatments
Other options include opting not to undergo treatment or considering procedures such as laser therapy, chemical peels, dermabrasion or surgery. Each approach has its own potential risks, side effects and considerations that should be discussed with a qualified practitioner.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Common and Mild Reactions:
- Swelling, redness, bruising, or tenderness at treatment sites
- Tightness, itching, or minor discomfort
- Small puncture marks or temporary asymmetry
Delayed or Moderate Reactions:
- Inflammatory reactions, nodules, or lumps
- Skin discolouration
- Weak or inadequate treatment effect requiring additional treatment
Rare but Serious Risks:
- Infection or abscess formation
- Allergic reactions or anaphylaxis
- Entry of a product into an artery leading to temporary or permanent visual impairment, blindness, tissue necrosis, or damage to underlying structures
- Neurological events such as nerve inflammation, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, Bell’s palsy or other facial nerve complications
- Cerebral ischaemia or stroke, in extremely rare cases
Need for Re-Treatment and Additional Costs
Results vary between individuals, and additional treatments may be required to maintain the effect. Further procedures may be recommended depending on individual response. Associated costs may apply for follow-up or maintenance treatments.
Post-Care Information
What to Expect:
- Swelling, redness, bruising, or tenderness at treatment sites
- Tightness, mild discomfort, or minor asymmetry
- Full effects may be visible within three to four weeks
Aftercare Recommendations:
- Avoid touching, massaging, or applying pressure to treated areas for at least two weeks
- Refrain from facials, waxing, chemical peels, IPL, laser or other skin treatments for two weeks
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure, extreme temperatures, alcohol or strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours
- Keep the skin clean with a gentle cleanser and avoid make-up for at least 12 hours
Follow-Up:
- Contact the clinic immediately if severe swelling, pain, or unexpected reactions occur
- Late-onset inflammatory reactions may occur weeks to months after treatment
- Additional treatment or medical intervention may be required in rare cases
Laser and Skin Lesion Treatments
Laser treatments remove moles, skin lesions, or pigmented areas by precisely targeting the skin with controlled laser energy. This process temporarily damages the treated skin layer, allowing it to heal over time.
Important Information
- Laser treatment removes the treated tissue, which means it cannot be sent for pathology to confirm whether a lesion is cancerous. It is recommended that a qualified skin cancer doctor examine any skin lesion or mole before undergoing treatment.
- Even if a lesion has been assessed as benign, there remains a small risk that undetected cancerous cells may be present.
Common and Mild Reactions:
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness in the treated area
- Mild bleeding or bruising
- Formation of a scab, which usually falls off within 7-10 days
- Temporary discomfort or soreness
- Hypopigmentation (treated area may appear lighter) or hyperpigmentation (treated area may appear darker)
- Small, superficial scarring
Delayed or Moderate Reactions:
- Inflammatory reactions such as prolonged redness or swelling
- Changes in skin texture at the treated site
- Persistent pigmentation changes, which may last several months
Rare but Serious Risks:
- Infection at the treatment site
- Burns or blistering requiring medical attention
- Permanent scarring, including hypertrophic or keloid scars
- Allergic reactions to topical post-treatment products
- Delayed wound healing or tissue damage
- Very rare adverse effects may include unexpected changes in skin sensation or pigmentation
Post-Treatment Care:
- Keep the treated area dry and avoid touching, picking, or rubbing the site until fully healed
- Avoid sun exposure for at least 4 weeks and use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily over the treated area
- Avoid skin irritants such as retinoids, chemical peels, hydroquinone, and exfoliating products for at least two weeks
- Make-up can be used once redness, blistering, or scabbing has subsided
- Follow any instructions from your treating practitioner regarding topical creams or light-based healing treatments (such as LED therapy)
Follow-Up:
- Monitor the treated area for signs of infection, prolonged redness, or unexpected reactions
- Contact your clinic immediately if severe inflammation, unusual pain, or other concerning reactions occur
- Seek urgent medical attention through a medical centre or emergency department if necessary
Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling and Dry Needling Treatments
RF Microneedling and Dry Needling use the controlled application of fine needles, sometimes in combination with low-level radiofrequency energy, to the dermal layer of the skin or underlying tissue. These procedures temporarily affect the skin and soft tissue and may help improve the appearance of the skin, including areas with uneven texture, scarring, or other surface irregularities.
Important Information
- Results vary between individuals, and multiple treatments may be required.
- During treatment, patients must be able to provide feedback regarding discomfort or heat sensation. Individuals with nerve insensitivity in the treatment area may not be suitable for this procedure due to the risk of burns or tissue injury.
Common and Mild Reactions:
- Redness, swelling or tenderness at the treatment site
- Mild discomfort or heat sensation during treatment
- Temporary bruising or pinpoint bleeding at needle entry sites
- Minor skin tightness or itching
Delayed or Moderate Reactions:
- Skin crusting or blistering
- Hypopigmentation (lightening of treated areas) or hyperpigmentation (darkening)
- Small areas of scarring or textural changes
- Granuloma formation or nodules at the treatment site
- Persistent sensitivity or discomfort lasting days to weeks
Rare but Serious Risks:
- Infection at the treatment site
- Extensive or permanent scarring, including hypertrophic or keloid scarring
- Severe or prolonged pigment changes
- Allergic or inflammatory reactions to topical products applied post-treatment
- Rare nerve injury or prolonged tissue damage
Post-Treatment Care:
- Keep the treated area clean and avoid touching, picking, or rubbing the site
- Apply cooling measures such as ice packs or cooling gels to reduce discomfort and swelling
- Avoid sun exposure, extreme temperatures, and irritating skin products for at least one to two weeks
- Follow all aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner
Follow-Up:
- Monitor the treated area for signs of infection, persistent redness or unusual reactions
- Contact the clinic immediately if severe inflammation, unexpected pain or other concerning reactions occur
- Seek urgent medical attention through a medical centre or emergency department if necessary
