How to Deal With Cosmetic Complications in Dermatology, With Michael H. Gold, MD

In dermatology practice, cosmetic procedures have become an increasingly central element, with energy-based devices and other aesthetic interventions now being used routinely in a wide array of clinical settings.1

However, dermatology clinicians know complications occur, even in the most experienced hands. A session, titled ‘Complications of Cosmetic Procedures,' was presented at the 2026 American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting by several speakers, including Michael H. Gold, MD, the founder and medical director of Gold Skin Care Center, Advanced Aesthetics Medical Spa, & The Laser & Rejuvenation Center.2 Gold spoke with HCPLive about the key takeaways.

“Everybody will see a complication,” Gold explained. “If you don't, the old adage is you haven't done enough. The issue is understanding that it is a complication early, working with the patient to make sure they understand you know what you're doing, and coming up with a solution that makes it get better fast.”

Gold described complications as not a matter of if, but when. His core message throughout his session was that the ability to recognize a complication early, communicate openly with those involved, and to move quickly toward a solution is what separates a manageable setback from a lasting problem. He described the vast majority of complications are reversible when approached properly.

Throughout his talk, Gold drew on his 35-plus years of experience, sharing a variety of examples from cases in both his own practice and colleagues with whom he runs complication panels throughout the year. Intense pulsed light (IPL) was highlighted as 1 unique focus. Gold described newer machines as having diminished the incidence of burns, blistering, and shifts in pigment, yet he added that the risks have not been eliminated completely.

Additionally, Gold cautioned clinicians in the dermatology space against cutting corners on device quality, describing less expensive machines as often less rigorously assessed. He also touched on the medical-legal dimensions of complication management, noting clinicians should consider informed consent, detailed documentation, and pre-procedure photography as essential.

For any additional information on complications, view the full video interview from AAD 2026 posted above.

The quotes contained in this interview summary were edited for clarity.

Gold reports relationships with multiple companies, including roles as a consultant (honoraria) for Acclaro Medical, Aesthetic Management Partners, Aesthetics Biomedical, Alastin Skincare, Inc., Allergan, Inc., Benev, Galderma, Hugel, InMode, La Mer, Mindera, MTF Biologics, Nutrafol, Pierre Fabre, Prescriber’s Choice, Revision Skincare, Rohrer Aesthetics, Sciton Inc., Sensus Healthcare, Sente Labs, SkinBetter Science, SkinCeuticals LLC, SkinMedica, Inc., Sofwave, Stratapharma, and VIOL. He has served as a speaker (honoraria) for Alma Lasers, Cutera, Inc., EndyMed Medical Inc. USA, Lumenis, Merz Pharmaceuticals, LLC, and Venus Concept. He is an investigator (grants/research funding) for Bausch Health, Leo Pharma Inc., Revance Therapeutics, Inc., Revision Skincare, and SkinBetter Science. He also reports stockholder status with Aerolase and stock options with Venus Concept.

References

1. Perez SM, Kennedy DJ, Landau M, et al. Implications of Dermatologic Disorders in Facial Cosmetic Surgery: A Systematic Review. Ann Plast Surg. 2026 May 1;96(5):404-412. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0000000000004731. Epub 2026 Mar 19. PMID: 41848703.

2. Gold M, et al. S051 Complications of Cosmetic Procedures. Session presented at: 2026 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting; March 27–31, 2026; Denver, CO.