Recent data analysed from 20,000 non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures administered by dermatologists show such procedures are associated with only a tiny fraction of adverse events, according to a study published online in November 2014 by JAMA Dermatology.
The study, led by researcher Dr Murad Alam the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University, Chicago, included laser and energy devices, as well as injectable neurotoxins and fillers.
A total of 20,399 procedures were studied and 48 adverse events were reported, for an adverse event rate of 0.24 percent, according to study results. Overall, 36 procedures resulted in at least one adverse event for a rate of 0.18 percent. Adverse events most commonly happened after procedures on the cheeks, followed by nasolabial and eyelid procedures. Adverse events were most commonly lumps or nodules, persistent redness or bruising, skin darkening, or erosions or ulcerations. No serious adverse events were reported.
“In the hands of well-trained dermatologists, these procedures are safe, with aggregate adverse event rates of well under one percent. Moreover, most adverse events are minor and rapidly remitting, and serious adverse events were not seen. Patients seeking such procedures can be reassured that, at least in the hands of trained board- certified dermatologists, they pose minimal risk,” the study concludes.
