Teen Left with Swollen and Bruised Lips After Underage Lip Filler Procedure

A 17-year-old girl, Evie-Grace Keeler, experienced a traumatic ordeal after undergoing a lip filler procedure with a beautician she found on Facebook. Despite the beautician's poor reviews, Keeler decided to proceed with the £65 treatment as no one else would perform it on an underage client. Shortly after the injections, her lips swelled up, turned purple, and continued to grow for two days. The swelling lasted for two weeks, causing embarrassment and difficulty in normal daily activities such as drinking. Six months later, her lips remain uneven, requiring her to use lipstick to camouflage the botched results.

According to Keeler, the beautician was aware of her age and charged her a reduced price. The teenager had previously seen the same beautician for a similar procedure without any adverse effects. However, this time, her lips bruised instantly and became quite painful. The swelling left her lips resembling those of a 'pufferfish.' Keeler refrained from going out as she felt self-conscious, fearing that the damage might be permanent.

Underage lip filler injections are illegal under the Botulinum Toxin and Cosmetic Fillers (Children) Act 2021. Violators can face unlimited fines. In rare cases, dermal fillers can lead to severe complications such as blindness or tissue death if improperly administered. Keeler's experience highlights the need to enforce regulations and ensure that only qualified professionals perform such procedures.

Keeler claims that the beautician informed her she was fully qualified after only a one-day course. The beautician advised her to take antihistamines after the procedure, but they did not alleviate the swelling. Keeler has decided not to pursue a formal complaint, but she urges others to exercise caution when considering lip fillers and thoroughly verify the qualifications of the practitioner. Her mother, Lisa, also discourages parents from allowing their children to undergo such treatments, emphasizing the potential long-term consequences.

To ensure the safety of lip filler procedures, the NHS advises individuals to check that the practitioner is registered on a reputable training and insurance register. Competent practitioners operate in clean clinical environments and prioritize aftercare and follow-up appointments. Lip fillers made of hyaluronic acid may cause temporary side effects such as redness, swelling, and tenderness at the injection site. Individuals with cold sores or a risk of keloid scarring should consult specialists before undergoing the procedure.

Keeler's story serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the risks associated with underage lip filler procedures and the necessity of choosing qualified and reputable practitioners.