Risks and Complications

Bruising and tenderness

Usually lasting up to 2 weeks from the procedure date, including, very uncommonly, the possibility of hematoma.

To avoid excessive bleeding, avoid vitamin E, anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, St John's Wort and blood-thinning medications such as aspirin for a week before and a week after the procedure.

Swelling

Swelling is a common complication of this procedure. It can take up to 2 weeks for most of the swelling to disappear. Residual swelling can last for 1 month if a large amount of filler is injected, or due to the natural healing response of the patient.

Only after the swelling has gone down will you know how much size you have gained. Measure your "after" size a minimum of two weeks following your procedure for an accurate measurement.

Irregularity

Due to natural tissue bands under the penile skin that may be difficult to identify, it might not be possible to achieve perfect symmetry in a single session.

In some cases corrections will be made, usually requiring a small amount of additional filler at the patient's expense, during a second visit a minimum of 2 weeks after the first session. Filler can be moulded during the first week by the patient at home. Additional filler can be added at the patient's expense if further filler is needed.

Hardening of the product; a lump, nodule or granuloma

This can occur from a few weeks following the procedure to a number of months after. These lumps are important to resolve without significant delay. Please contact the clinic to arrange to come in and have this treated.

Nodules

Nodules and lumps are possible complications resulting from the use of dermal fillers. Nodules can be categorized as inflammatory or non-inflammatory.

Inflammatory nodules. Delayed-onset nodules (from 4 weeks to 1 year or even longer) are usually inflammatory (immune responses to the filler material) and/or infection-related, including biofilm. Biofilms are widespread in nature and consist of densely packed communities of bacteria that surround themselves with secreted polymers.

Hyperpigmentation

A rare complication of dermal filler procedures. Patients with Fitzpatrick skin types IV to VI (light brown, brown to dark brown) are more likely to experience this.

Infection

Infection is the most serious complication. While rare, infections are the most serious of the very uncommon complications of this procedure. Your doctor may prescribe precautionary antibiotics; please ensure you complete the full course.

Allergy

An allergic reaction to hyaluronic acid filler is extremely rare and is usually mild. It may appear as a rash on the skin. If this should occur and cannot be resolved, it may require the filler to be dissolved.