Ultrasound imaging in aesthetic medicine: safety and precision in injectable procedures

Injectable procedures for aesthetic purposes are on the rise in recent years, and, with them, the number of related complications. Ultrasound (US) imaging is a reliable tool that can be used in conjunction with such procedures to minimize adverse outcomes. US may be used prior to the actual injection procedure to identify anatomical anomalies and for vascular mapping. US-guided injections allow to improve precision, prevent complications, reduce the injectable volume, and to treat complications. At follow-up, US imaging allows assessment of treatment success by visualizing filler placement but is also essential for diagnosing complications and carefully planning their treatment. However, a lack of standardized protocols persists, forcing practitioners to determine US use on an individual basis. This review examines the application of US before, during, and after injectable procedures, highlighting its benefits in preventing and managing complications. We focus on the literature published since 2020, thereby providing a snapshot of current clinical practice. US imaging at different stages of injectable procedures allows precise treatments, tailored to individual patients' needs, minimizes complications, enhances practitioner confidence and patient' trust, and ultimately achieves optimal aesthetic outcomes and high patient satisfaction. Ultimately, this review highlights the need to develop standardized protocols for the implementation of US in routine clinical practice, supporting practitioners in their decision-making processes.