Unhappy With Your Botox/Filler? Here’s What To Do

So you hate your Botox and/or dermal filler––it’s okay, it happens, no need to panic! The beauty behind these non-invasive cosmetic procedures is that they’re not permanent. What goes in can be taken out. So, before you freak out and vow never to leave your house again, read through our Q&A breakdown on what to do if you’re unhappy with your Botox and/or dermal filler. There’s always a way to fix your face!

Q: How Long Should I Wait Before Deciding I’m Unhappy With the Results?

A: Generally speaking, Botox takes around one week to settle, while filler can take up to two weeks to fully settle; although you are able to get a sense of what final results will look like approximately an hour after your treatment. While immediate swelling may cause concern, it is recommended to wait the allotted time for your treatment to calm down and take full effect. Recovery times may vary by treatment, so you should always check with your esthetician on how long to wait before deciding if you’re happy with your results or not.

Q: How Do I Fix Unwanted Dermal Filler/Botox?

A: Fixes will vary by the area of concern. Sometimes the answer can be to actually add more Botox and/or dermal filler to the troubling area. Strategically placed Botox can even out or fill undesirable results. However, other times when small amounts of Botox go rogue, and lodge itself into unintended muscles, the best course of action is to wait it out, and allow the injection to naturally dissolve on its own. Similar to Botox, dermal filler fixes will result on the type of filler used. To dissolve your treatment, your esthetician will most likely inject the enzyme hyaluronidase, which serves as an antidote of sorts for hyaluronic acid fillers. Your initial type of dermal filler will determine how long it will take to dissolve. Such as, Voluma fillers may take multiple sessions, whereas Restylane fillers may dissolve at a faster rate.

Q: How Do I Tell My Esthetician That I’m Unhappy With My Results?

A: We understand that expressing displeasure can be an uncomfortable situation. However, it’s important to keep in mind that your esthetician truly wants you to be happy with your treatment, and they’re dedicated to working with you to achieve the best possible results. It’s best to communicate your feelings with your esthetician as soon as possible, so that they can advise you on the best course of action. An esthetician’s ultimate goal is to instill happiness and confidence in their clients, and sometimes that entails altering previous procedures. It’s okay to voice concern, just do your best to calmly and clearly communicate what aspects of your Botox and/or dermal filler that you are unhappy with.

Q: How Can I Avoid this Situation? What Information Can I Give Beforehand to Help Ensure More Positive Results?

A: Presenting a visual, like pictures of a model or celebrity, are an ideal way to relay your desired results to your esthetician. This way you can communicate what you like and/or dislike about fullness or firmness factors of the specified feature. Another important note to discuss with your esthetician prior to your procedure is how you want your treatment to look, albeit more subtle and natural, or a more plump and firm look. If you are unsure about what you want, it is recommended to start with a little, then add more as time goes on to ensure the best possible results. 


Still have questions? Book a consultation with one of our certified estheticians in West Hollywood and Los Angeles for more information and assistance on selecting the best treatment for you! See also our updated COVID-19 policy for the latest on safety procedures and sanitation measures.

Karina Sulzer