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Dermal fillers have been around for 16 years, but they’ve had quite a renaissance in the last five. This is due largely in part to celebs like Kylie Jenner who are open about their use of filler to accentuate their features. And can you really argue with the results? If it ain’t broke, then keep using it! But here’s the thing about results: if you want the desired effect, you need to follow a certain protocol. You can’t just walk out into the blistering heat and go tanning! There is also swelling and bruising that you need to consider. While swelling and bruising can totally cramp your style, it’s a normal part of the process, and will fade just as it comes along with proper aftercare: filler edition.
That’s the tricky thing about minimally invasive procedures that have minimal downtime. You just want to get right back to it… and to some extent you can, but not without following some of our best practices. Taking a couple days off from your usual routine will be beneficial to your early recovery. Whether you’re using Restylane, Belotero, or Juvederm, the aftercare is pretty much the same across the board, so if you’re using a combination of these treatments, this blog will function as a “catch all” for your aftercare. So let’s get right to it!
Fillers work naturally, much like the hyaluronic acid your body already produces. Because of this, it takes two to three weeks to fully settle into your skin. No facial treatments or dermal filler touch-ups should be performed after the 14 days, because you need to wait and let the original treatment distribute itself naturally. There is such a thing as overdoing it, and the two week window is a safe one.
Dermal Fillers commonly cause swelling and sometimes even bruising. The injection process disturbs the skin and soft tissue, causing minor trauma to the area, and swelling is a natural bodily response whilst the area heals. If this is your first time, you might be alarmed, but swelling is a “by the numbers” after effect of your treatment, and totally natural within this timeframe.
For one to three days after your treatment, regular application of a cold compress can reduce pain, swelling, and bruising that may result from dermal fillers. If you’re liking the feel of an ice pack for a little longer, you’re more than welcome to. You’ll just be adding extra cool comfort to your skin. We recommend that patients rinse a washcloth in ice water or wrap an ice pack with a thin cloth.
The application of Arnica will help reduce inflammation and provide an extra layer of comfort in your healing process. There are also over the counter Arnica supplements that you could take to limit bruising before and after treatment. When trying out a new supplement, it’s always a best practice to consult your physician to make sure you’re going to have a good reaction, especially if it’s your first time getting Dermal Filler treatments.
These blood vessels can heal and recover quickly, but if you exercise and get your heart rate up, they could become more visible and result in delayed bruising after your treatment. If you’re really worried about missing out on your cardio or strength training, then it’s a good idea to get your filler treatment done on your cheat or rest day!
Lucky for you, autumn is approaching. If you’re going to be walking/biking to work, or exposed to sunlight in other ways, we strongly recommend using SPF 30 or higher.
Many patients do not realize these common over the counter medications increase your chance of bruising: Aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Aleve, Advil, and NSAID-containing products (Midol, Excedrin, cold medicine). These should be stopped 2 weeks prior to your treatment, and 2 days after. This may seem like a long list, but we’re including all categories of medications that may cause issues. When in doubt, always check with your doctor, and they will steer you in the right direction.
While not a requirement, a follow-up visit two weeks after treatment is a great way to evaluate your final result. This is especially true if it’s your first treatment. The guiding hand of an expert is always a good idea so you can properly evaluate your results. Plus, two weeks is a long time, and we can’t wait to see you again!
If you’re intrigued, but think you may have needs aside from our Filler Treatment, please feel inclined to take a look at the rest of our services suite. Our team is ready to help you achieve your dreams, and look and feel the way you deserve. For further information, reviews, happenings, and promotions check us out on Instagram and Facebook. We’re always glad to hear from regular customers and new faces alike!
And we didn’t even tell you the best part. You can get ANY of our Classic Treatments for FREE when you sign up for a membership. We know that memberships come in different shapes and sizes, so take a look at our website to see what membership level works best for you!
Beauty is not defined by the eye of the beholder. Our clients and their personal experience define it. We founded our medical spa on this principle. We believe that committing our resources, medical knowledge, and experience to listening to our patients first, results in what it means to live a full life, be comfortable in their skin, aware of their body, and be connected to their soul.
All of our services start with an in-person consultation to discuss your aesthetic goals and help you decide what’s right for you. We talk through:
9350 University Ave #132, West Des Moines, IA 50266