Dermal fillers are one of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic treatments sought after by women and men who want to look younger. The success of these injections depends mainly on the care you give to your face through pre- and post-care treatment tips and instructions. Discuss any concerns regarding the application and care of dermal fillers at a pre-treatment appointment.
Who is not a Candidate for Dermal Fillers?
Dermal fillers are contraindicated for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your provider may also recommend other cosmetic treatments if you take blood thinners like Warfarin, Coumadin, Heparin, Plavix, and similar anticoagulants. Some neurological disorders may also prevent you from getting these injections. Always discuss any medications you take or medical conditions you have to ensure that you are a candidate for dermal filler treatment. Having a previous surgical facelift may also result in denial of treatment.
What Type of Pre-Treatment Instructions Can I Expect?
If you take any medications or over-the-counter supplements, some of these can interfere with your dermal filler and may even cause complications. Your doctor may advise you to discontinue the following for anywhere from 2 weeks to 24 hours prior to your injection appointment, as these can increase the risk of bruising and swelling after your dermal fillers:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and blood thinning medications
- NSAIDs like aspirin, ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, and Aleve
- Supplements such as vitamin E, ginkgo Biloba, genseng, St. John’s wort and omega 3/fish oil
- Discontinue Retin-A two days prior to and two days after treatment
Avoid Procedures and Vaccines
For two weeks before your injections, you should avoid getting any vaccines, including those for Covid and influenza, or having any dental procedures performed, including cleanings. Other procedures to avoid are:
- Biopsies or lesion excisions
- Surgery of any kind
- Internal device placement
- Tattoos or permanent makeup
Other General Instructions
For the best results, most providers also recommend the following:
- Avoid alcoholic beverages and smoking for at least 24 hours
- Avoid waxing, bleaching, or using hair removal cream on the treatment area
- Use sunscreen, so you do not develop sunburn
Scheduling Your Dermal Filler Appointment
Schedule your dermal filler appointment at least four weeks before a special event so you can heal fully. Let your provider know if you have a history of cold sores, as they may put you on an anti-viral medication. Injections can also increase the risk of developing cold sores after treatment. Reschedule your injection appointment if a rash, cold sore, or blemish develops in the treatment area.
On the Day of Your Appointment
Have a good breakfast and drink adequate water before your dermal filler injections to decrease the chance of becoming lightheaded during your treatment. Arrive with a clean face and wearing no cosmetics. Your provider may allow you to take Tylenol or generic acetaminophen one hour prior to your appointment to help with any discomfort you may experience.
What Type of Post-Treatment Instructions Can I Expect?
Most post-treatment instructions involve easing any discomfort in the treated areas or ensuring that your actions allow each injection to work on its intended area and not migrate to other areas of your face. During this time, you should also be aware of any possible complications.
Immediately After Treatment
In the first few hours after treatment, you may begin to notice redness, bruising and swelling, and tenderness in the treated areas. These are normal reactions, which usually subside within a few days but can last up to a week. If symptoms last longer than a week or become severe, contact your doctor. Use cold compresses or ice packs for 20 minutes each hour on treated areas to reduce swelling and decrease soreness. You may use Tylenol every four to six hours after treatment to help alleviate discomfort.
24 Hours Post-Treatment
Continue to avoid alcoholic beverages for another 24 hours, as well as excessive salt intake. Avoid touching or massaging the treated area for at least six hours to ensure the dermal fillers stay in place. You should also avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours, although your doctor may ask you to refrain from doing so for up to 48 hours. Try to sleep face up and slightly elevated during your first night to reduce swelling.
Other General Post-Treatment Tips
As you did before your dermal filler appointment, avoid non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications for the time your provider specifies. Limit extensive sun exposure for up to a week after your appointment, especially if you experience significant bruising and swelling. If sun exposure is unavoidable, use an SPF 30 or higher sunblock. Many providers also recommend using oral or topical arnica, an over-the-counter herbal treatment, to reduce swelling. Do not take arnica if you have liver or kidney problems.
Some patients may see immediate results. However, as a rule, about four to seven days will pass before you start seeing results from your dermal filler injections. You may need additional treatments if you don’t see the desired results.
Finally, if you notice signs and symptoms of infection, including warmth in the treated area, discharge or pus, excessive pain, or if you develop a fever, immediately contact a medical professional at Chicago Aesthetics Surgery & Med Spa or your healthcare provider.
Author’s BIO: Lori Wade is a journalist from Louisville. She is a content writer who has experience in small editions. Lori is currently engaged in news and conceptual articles on the health and beauty industry. You can find her on LinkedIn. Hope you appreciate Lori’s useful insights!
