The complications began three years ago when a cosmetic facility, run by an acquaintance, advised the woman to receive injections of a "high-end Swiss filler" for results lasting seven to eight years. A few days after the procedure, she experienced pain and redness in her buttocks.

At that time, doctors at the National Burns Hospital diagnosed inflammation and recommended removing all the filler. Fearing the impact on her appearance, she declined the removal, agreeing only to treatment for the inflamed areas.

Three years later, the woman's buttocks unexpectedly became swollen and painful again. The infection escalated severely, forcing her to return to the hospital for emergency care.

Doctors examining the patient. Photo: Linh Dan

On 6/4, Dr. Tong Hai, Deputy Director of the Center for Aesthetic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at the National Burns Hospital, reported that the patient was admitted in critical condition. Doctors observed multiple abscesses and widespread inflammation on both thighs and hips, with continuous pus discharge. She was on the verge of developing sepsis, a dangerous complication where bacteria enter the bloodstream.

To save the patient, the medical team administered the strongest broad-spectrum antibiotics and performed five surgeries to debride, insert drains, and remove as much filler as possible. After more than three weeks of intensive treatment, the woman's overall health improved, and her wounds were clean. Doctors continue to monitor her closely to prevent recurrence.

According to Dr. Hai, cosmetic facilities often inject non-homogeneous, long-lasting fillers, described as "artificial fat," which makes removal difficult. He advises people to use fillers only for small areas like the nose, chin, cheeks, and lips. For larger areas such as the breasts or buttocks, filler injections carry a very high risk of complications.

To ensure safety, clients should choose medical facilities licensed by regulatory agencies, where aesthetic plastic surgeons perform the procedures directly and use products with clear origins. If pain, swelling, redness, or fluid accumulation appears in the injected area, individuals must seek immediate intervention at a reputable hospital to prevent necrosis, sepsis, or death.

Thuy Quynh