It’s impossible to miss the irony of getting a dermal filler or Botox® procedure to improve your looks, only to end up with a big bruise from the treatment. While no reputable doctor will promise “no bruising,” as reactions can be unpredictable, there are things you can do both before and after to help reduce the chances that it will happen to you.
Here at DERMABARE in Laguna Niguel, California, Dr. Ramin Tayani and our experienced team are committed to giving you the best experience possible when it comes to Botox and fillers. Here’s what you need to know about these procedures, and how you can prevent bruising afterward.
Botox and dermal fillers 101
Both Botox and dermal fillers are cosmetic injections that can help you achieve your beauty goals. Botox can decrease the visibility of moderate-to-severe frown lines, forehead creases, and crow’s feet for a period of up to four months. Created from a gel-like substance, fillers can help smooth lines and wrinkles, enhance facial contours, plump up thin lips, and more.
Ways to prevent bruising
Bruising or swelling around the injection site is possible after the procedure, and there are things you can do to make it less likely to happen.
Before treatment
Do your homework
You want to make sure that your provider is not only properly credentialed, but preferably has years of experience using different types of injectables. With the team here at DERMABARE, you can feel confident that you’re in good hands.
In addition, be sure to discuss what type of injectable is best for you. Some may be more likely to cause bruising than others, based on their viscosity and how deeply they are injected.
Stop blood thinning medications, supplements, and alcohol
Many medications and supplements, such as NSAIDs, anticoagulants, St. John’s Wort, vitamin E, fish oil/omega-3 fatty acids, and more can thin the blood and/or reduce its ability to clot properly — both of which could increase the chance of bruising. These should be stopped before the procedure. (However, if you take an anticoagulant for a pre-existing medical condition, be sure to discuss this with your doctor first.)
Also, keep in mind that alcohol can act as a blood thinner, so do not imbibe the night before, as well as the night of the procedure.
After treatment
Give your body a boost
The supplements arnica and bromelain may be able to help lessen the chances of bruising and swelling. Your provider can advise you on the best time to begin taking one or both. Also, enzymes found in pineapple may help prevent bruising as well, so add some of the tropical fruit to your diet during the first two days after treatment.
Don’t overdo physical activity
Rigorous aerobic exercise or weight training can cause an increase in your heart rate and blood flow, which can hamper quick healing of the capillaries at the injection site. Avoiding strenuous physical activity for two to three days post-treatment is best.
Avoid pressure
Don’t touch the treated area for at least 6 hours. Also, don’t put pressure on it or massage it, as that can cause additional damage to the blood vessels. Stay awake for at least 3 to 4 hours after the procedure, so you don’t accidentally rub or press on the injection sites. Elevating your head with extra pillows when you sleep the first night can also be helpful, as can using a cold compress within the first 8 hours of treatment (applying very lightly for 5 to 10 minutes every hour).
Get ready for a brand new you
At DERMABARE, we offer the most advanced array of spa and medical aesthetic treatments to help you look and feel your best. Whether you’re looking for laser skin rejuvenation, dermal fillers or Botox, body sculpting, cosmetic surgery procedures, or a professionally-designed skin care regimen, we have the treatment that’s just right for you. Our luxurious, high-end practice combines the spa experience with medical aesthetic treatments, all in a relaxed and friendly environment.
If you’re ready to turn back the clock and enhance your appearance, book an appointment with DERMABARE today.