Dermal Fillers Do’s and Don’ts
As people get older, the skin and substructure of the face experience a litany of changes. Bones start to atrophy, and the skin loses its vital moisture and collagen, resulting in volume loss and fine lines. Thankfully, there are ways for patients to retain their vitality without resorting to surgery.
Dermal fillers add volume and support the structures of the face, restoring youthfulness to the skin and eliminating wrinkles. These powerful injectables have the ability to wind the clock back several years, leaving patients looking as radiant as they did in their youth.
The risks of using dermal fillers
It is important for patients to understand that injectables, such as dermal fillers, come with certain risks. The risks associated with these treatments can be managed by taking the proper preventative measures and care. Here is a list of some criteria to keep in mind when going about receiving this treatment.
What to do before receiving treatment
- Understand the details of the treatment you are receiving and all of the associated risks and potential complications
- Have antivirals and supplements, such as Lysine, on hand if you suffer from cold sores
- Disclose all medications and supplements that you take regularly to your practitioner
- Stay hydrated, as this procedure saps a lot of energy from the body. The body needs ample amounts of water.
- If you are a person that bruises easily, take an Arnica supplement prior to the treatment. It has been shown to both reduce bruising and promote stronger blood flow (a vital part of the recovery process).
What NOT to do before treatment
- DO NOT put on makeup on the day of your treatment. The face will be cleansed, removing it all from your face.
- DO NOT receive dermal filler injections if you are pregnant or recently had a child. Patients should wait until after they have stopped breastfeeding.
- Over-the-counter medications like Ibuprofen, Aleve, Aspirin, and other pain medications should be avoided for at least a few days leading up to the treatment. These and other blood thinners can cause complications during the procedure.
- Avoid all herbal supplements, such as St. John’s Wort, for at least a week before the appointment. Your practitioner will provide you with a list of supplements to avoid.
- Refrain from drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to the procedure. Drinking can increase the likelihood of bruising.
- Avoid heavy exercise for at least a day prior to the treatment.
What to do following treatment
- Be prepared to experience some form of swelling and bruising. These effects can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. Patients should plan their schedules with the recovery period in mind.
- Make sure to notify your doctor about any extensive pain, irregular bruising, profuse swelling, or any other abnormalities, if they occur.
- Apply ice to the treated area on and off throughout the day. Doing this helps with mitigating issues such as swelling and discomfort. However, it is important to avoid letting the ice make direct contact with the treated area. Make sure to cover any ice cubes with a towel or tissue.
What NOT to do after receiving treatment
- Make sure to avoid touching the treated area at all costs.
- Refrain from drinking alcohol for at least 48 hours following the procedure. Consuming alcohol can increase your chances of bruising.
- Patients should avoid exercise for at least 48 hours after receiving the treatment. Strenuous exercise increases blood flow and causes slight tissue movements, both of which can increase the probability of bruising.
- Avoid any and all forms of massage on the face for at least one week.
- Refrain from wearing makeup for at least 24 hours after the procedure. Patients who cannot go without makeup should choose a product formulated with lighter minerals.
- Do not leave the house without sunscreen.
What is the takeaway?
Having been in use for decades, dermal fillers are a powerful treatment option that can attain incredibly remarkable results. Following pre and post-procedural directions helps patients ensure that they attain the best results possible from their treatment. As mentioned before, choosing a skilled, experienced practitioner is vital for satisfactory results. Make sure to do extensive research before making your choice.