Dr. Romain Lรฉger, a cosmetic doctor at the Entourage Clinic in Lausanne, appeared on the RTS program *ร Bon Entendeur* to discuss a sensitive topic: the rise in illegal hyaluronic acid injections. Behind the promise of a rejuvenated face at a low cost lies a real health risk. Here are the key points to understand.
Coming up on RTS: Hyaluronic Acid: The Dangers of Illegal Injections (ABE)
A rapidly growing phenomenon
The figures cited by the program highlight the scale of the problem. Of the 57 facilities inspected by the cantons in 2024, more than half were administering hyaluronic acid without the necessary qualifications. In other words, a significant portion of these procedures are being performed outside the medical framework.
The market attracts opportunistic operators. Quacks, crash courses lasting just a few days, injections administered at salons or in peopleโs homes: the industry is growing mainly because of rock-bottom prices that appeal to customers who are largely unaware of the risks.
Why a low price should raise a red flag
An injection administered by a doctor has a justified cost: the consultation, the approved medication, the technical facilities, and the ability to manage complications. When a price seems abnormally low, it is often because one of these safeguards is missing. The savings could end up costing a lot.
The risks of a non-medical injection
Damage that is sometimes irreversible
An improperly administered injection can block a blood vessel and cause skin necrosis or even vision loss. The product can also migrate and lead to an embolism. In addition, there is a risk of infection and permanent facial deformities.
The trap of counterfeit products
Some victims believe they are receiving hyaluronic acid, a dissolvable product, when in fact they are being injected with a permanent substance not approved by Swissmedic. One woman was disfigured after a serious infection and must undergo reconstructive surgery. There has even been one reported death in France following an illegal injection.
Dr. Romain Lรฉger’s Reminder
In his remarks, Dr. Romain Lรฉger explains that these incidents are rarely reported. The doctor who treats a patient with complications often avoids making her feel guilty by asking who administered the injection. This discretion, while understandable from a human perspective, contributes to making the phenomenon invisible and allowing illegal practices to flourish.
His message is clear: a cosmetic injection is a medical procedure in its own right, which must be performed by a doctor and nowhere else.
A checklist before getting a shot
A few simple checks can help you weed out invalid addresses.
1. Is the practitioner a doctor? In Switzerland, only doctors are permitted to administer hyaluronic acid injections.
2. Is the location a doctor’s office? A beauty salon is not a legal setting for this type of procedure.
3. Is the product approved? The physician must be able to name the brand and present a product approved by Swissmedic.
4. Is a consultation planned? No serious treatment without first discussing your medical history and expectations.
Why is this black market thriving?
The popularity of injections, amplified by social media, has created massive demand. Many people are looking for quick results at the lowest price, without realizing that an injection is a medical procedure. Untrained practitioners are exploiting this demand, taking advantage of a procedure that seems harmless but is not. The line between cosmetic care and medical procedures has thus become blurred in the publicโs mind.
The ABE report reminds us that this normalization comes at a human cost. Behind every scarred face is a person who thought they were making a safe choice.
What should you do if you’ve already received an injection outside of a medical setting?
If you received an injection outside of a medical setting and notice unusual pain, skin discoloration, abnormal swelling, or vision problems, donโt delay. Vascular complications are much easier to treat when addressed early. Contact a cosmetic doctor or an emergency department immediately, without waiting for the situation to worsen.
Why should you be wary of injections at beauty salons?
Because they are illegal unless performed by a doctor, and the clinic is not equipped to handle serious complications.
Is hyaluronic acid injected by a doctor safe?
Yes. The product is biodegradable and well tolerated when administered in a medical setting, using a proven technique and with proper follow-up care.
I got a shot somewhere else and I’m not sureโwhat should I do?
See a cosmetic doctor right away. Early treatment can minimize the consequences of any complications.
See a doctor at the Entourage Clinic
At Entourage Clinic, all hyaluronic acid injections are performed exclusively by medical professionals. Whether youโre interested in treatment or have concerns following an injection performed elsewhere, Dr. Romain Lรฉger and our team are here to provide you with a consultation and a reliable assessment.
