Did you know that more than 30% of patients report regret after undergoing aesthetic procedures without proper medical guidance?
Não perca a dica do Dr. Szerman ao final do artigo!
According to data from the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, the number of complications resulting from poorly indicated treatments has been growing year after year. That’s why it’s essential to know which procedures to avoid and to understand the risks behind “miracle” promises before undergoing any intervention.
Recent studies show that over 65% of patients who undergo poorly indicated aesthetic procedures report at least one long-term side effect, which highlights why being selective is essential. When it comes to the “3 Aesthetic Procedures I Would Never Do (and Why You Should Avoid Them Too)”, the concern isn’t just preference — it’s safety. Many of these high-risk treatments have complication rates that are often underestimated, making informed decision-making crucial before choosing any cosmetic intervention.
Whenever I recommend an aesthetic procedure, it’s because I trust it — and would perform it on myself or on any member of my family.
But there are three procedures I would never do and don’t recommend. Want to know which ones they are? I’m Dr. Ronaldo Szerman, and in this article, I’ll explain three aesthetic procedures I would never perform — and, more importantly, share safe alternatives for those who seek beauty with responsibility.
1. Aesthetic procedures I’d never do: PMMA (Polymethyl Methacrylate) filler

PMMA filler, also known as metacrylate, is a permanent filler that was used years ago to fill facial lines and other areas of the face.
The main issue is that, being permanent, it stays in the same spot forever, even though our face continues to age and lose volume. Over time, PMMA can shift and accumulate in other areas.
What are the risks of using PMMA?
There are several. First, it cannot be removed, not even surgically, because it integrates into the local tissues. Second, even after 10 or 20 years, it can cause problems — such as nodules or inflammation — especially if the patient undergoes other aesthetic procedures later, such as hyaluronic acid fillers.
In short, it’s a ticking time bomb that can cause serious issues. A safe, effective, and versatile alternative is hyaluronic acid filler, as long as it’s properly indicated, performed by a qualified physician, and made with high-quality products.
2. Aesthetic procedures I’d never do: Tattooing to camouflage dark circles and stretch marks
The second procedure I don’t recommend is tattooing to camouflage dark circles or stretch marks. Although it may seem like a quick fix, it carries important risks and limitations.
Reasons to avoid camouflage tattooing:
- Color changes over time: pigments may oxidize and alter the original tone.
- Uneven skin tone: skin changes color with sun exposure, but the tattoo doesn’t adapt.
- Prevents future treatments: tattooing creates a barrier that makes it difficult to apply lasers or other future procedures.
Moreover, if the patient regrets it, removal is complex and painful, often requiring multiple laser sessions — and still without a guarantee of complete elimination.
3. Aesthetic procedures I’d never do: Buccal fat removal (bichectomy) for purely aesthetic reasons
This is the third and final procedure I wouldn’t perform solely for aesthetic purposes. Bichectomy is a surgery that removes the buccal fat pads to slim the face.
The danger of undergoing bichectomy only for aesthetics
If a person constantly bites the inside of their cheeks and has a true indication, the surgery can be appropriate. But if the goal is just to slim the face, it can accelerate facial aging. Facial fat is essential for support, and removing it can make the face sag faster. Instead of looking younger, a 25-year-old woman might end up looking over 40.
Not every aesthetic procedure is safe — and true beauty should always go hand in hand with medical responsibility.
Before undergoing any intervention, seek reliable information, qualified professionals, and proven-quality products.
If you want to enhance your appearance safely and achieve natural results, always consult a specialized dermatologist.
Contact:
A Clínica de Pele has specialized in dermatological treatments in Rio de Janeiro for over 60 years, since 1969.
Dr. Szerman has more than 20 years of experience and also teaches other physicians.


