Side Effects of Endolift Laser Treatment: What You Need to Know

Endolift is a popular non-surgical laser treatment designed to improve skin firmness, reduce unwanted fat, and stimulate collagen. At Skinoza Clinic, we specialise in offering advanced aesthetic treatments like Endolift to help clients achieve visible results with minimal downtime.

But while Endolift has gained popularity for being quick and effective, it's important to understand that complications can happen if it’s not done properly. This article explains the possible side effects of Endolift, how to avoid them, and why choosing an experienced provider like Skinoza Clinic can make all the difference.

What Is Endolift and How Does It Work?

Endolift is a minimally invasive laser treatment using a thin optical fibre inserted under the skin. It delivers laser energy (usually 1470 nm or 980 nm wavelength) to melt fat and tighten the skin. The procedure is often used on the:

• Face (cheeks, jawline, nasolabial folds)

• Neck and chin

• Abdomen and flanks

• Arms and thighs

The laser energy generates heat, which breaks down fat and stimulates collagen for a lifting effect. It’s often nicknamed a “lunchtime facelift” due to its short recovery time.

Is Endolift Safe?

Endolift is generally safe when performed by qualified professionals with the right equipment. But a recent case series in Brazil has highlighted a rising number of complications, often linked to poor technique, lack of temperature control, or insufficient hygiene standards.

Some issues were also linked to a lack of knowledge about how much energy should be used in specific treatment areas, especially on the face.

Common Side Effects of Endolift

Here are some side effects you might experience after the treatment:

1. Swelling and Redness

Mild swelling and redness are expected and usually go away in a few hours or days. Using cool compresses or anti-inflammatory creams can help soothe the area.

2. Bruising

Small bruises may appear where the fibre is inserted. These are harmless and typically heal in under a week.

3. Numbness or Tingling

Some people notice temporary numbness or tingling. This is due to minor nerve irritation and usually disappears within a few days.

More Serious Complications to Know About

Although rare, more serious side effects can occur if Endolift is not performed carefully.

4. Nerve Damage (Peripheral Neuropathy)

The marginal mandibular nerve, which controls lower facial movement, can be affected. This may lead to:

• Asymmetrical smile

• Facial weakness

• Difficulty speaking or chewing

These symptoms usually improve with time and proper treatment like physiotherapy, ozone therapy, or vitamin B12 supplementation.

5. Skin Burns

Burns happen when the laser overheats the skin, especially if no thermal monitoring is used. Signs of burns include:

• Blistering

• Red, painful skin

• Scarring or hyperpigmentation

Burns should be treated quickly with creams like silver sulfadiazine, sterile dressings, or ozone therapy, which has been shown to speed up healing and reduce infection risk.

6. Infections

Poor hygiene or reusing equipment can cause infections. Symptoms may include:

• Redness and heat

• Pus or discharge

• Fever or pain

Infections are usually treated with antibiotics, drainage, and ozone therapy to kill bacteria. At Skinoza Clinic, we follow strict hygiene protocols to minimise these risks.

7. Steatonecrosis (Fat Necrosis)

This occurs when fat tissue dies after being overheated. It can cause:

• Hard lumps under the skin

• Pain or tenderness

• Visible nodules

Fat necrosis can be treated with ultrasound therapy, fluid drainage, and in some cases, minor surgery. It is one of the more common complications reported in clinical practice in Brazil.

Other Reported Side Effects

8. Hyperpigmentation

Dark spots may appear after bruising or burns, especially in darker skin types. This is usually temporary and fades with creams or peels.

9. Haematomas

These are larger bruises or blood clots under the skin, sometimes requiring drainage.

10. Laser Fibre Breakage

Occasionally, the optical fibre may snap inside the skin if it is of poor quality or mishandled. This may require minor surgery to remove.

How to Minimise Risks

To stay safe during Endolift, choose a reputable clinic and ask the right questions:

• Does the practitioner have experience with Endolift?

• Do they use proper temperature monitoring tools?

• Is the clinic using sterile, single-use fibres?

• What power settings will be used?

At Skinoza Clinic, we use pulsed energy settings, thermal monitoring, and follow UK hygiene standards to ensure a safe and effective treatment.

What to Expect After Treatment

After your Endolift session, you might feel a bit sore or swollen. This is normal. Here’s a short recovery guide:

• Redness and swelling: 1–3 days

• Minor discomfort: Up to a week

• Results: Begin to show in a few weeks, improve over 2–3 months

You should avoid sun exposure and intense exercise for a few days. Use SPF daily to protect the treated area.

Why Choose Skinoza Clinic for Endolift?

At Skinoza Clinic, we are trained in the latest laser and skin rejuvenation techniques. Our expert practitioners use medical-grade devices and follow international safety protocols. We believe in:

• Personalised treatment plans

• Advanced thermal control

• Post-procedure support

We also help manage any side effects quickly and effectively using a combination of ozone therapy, LED therapy, ultrasound, and skincare products tailored to your skin type.

Conclusion

Endolift is a powerful cosmetic treatment that can firm the skin, reduce fat, and enhance facial contours — all without surgery. But it’s essential to understand the potential side effects and how to avoid them.

Complications like burns, nerve injury, or fat necrosis are rare but real, especially when the procedure is not performed correctly. Choosing a clinic like Skinoza Clinic, with trained professionals and strict protocols, can help you achieve safe and effective results.

Find Endolift face lift London near you:

Skinoza Orpington, Bromley near Chislehurst, Bickley, Beckenham, West Wickham, Sidcup & Swanley.

Skinoza Greenwich near Canary Wharf, Deptford, Surrey Quays & Kidbrooke Village.

Skinoza Blackhorse Road, Walthamstow near Tottenham Hale & Seven Sisters.

References:

1. Borges, F. S., et al. (2023). Complications from laser Endolift use: Case series and literature review. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 16(03), 23–41. DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/wjbphs.2023.16.3.0496

2. Kamamoto, F. et al. (2021). Technique for thermally guided laser lipolysis with a 980 nm diode laser. Revista Brasileira de Cirurgia Plástica, 36(1): 2–8.