WHAT ARE DERMAL FILLERS?
Dermal fillers are primarily composed of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring sugar molecule found in the human body. There are various kinds of dermal fillers used to address different concerns and areas of the face. Dermal fillers are used to restore the volume loss that come with aging and smooth the appearance of facial lines.
HOW DO DERMAL FILLERS WORK?
As we age, our skin loses its firm, taut quality as we produce less hyaluronic acid, collagen and elastin. Dermal fillers are injected and restore volume loss and create a softening of lines and folds. Our advanced aesthetic injectors will work with you to understand the cause of your concern and build a custom treatment plan to achieve your aesthetic goal.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING MY DERMAL FILLERS APPOINTMENT?
Before your treatment, it is recommended to stop taking over-the-counter medications like Advil, aspirin, alcohol, some vitamins and supplements 2 days before your injections to minimize bruising. There is minimal to no downtime after being treated with filler. The procedure can take 15 to 30 minutes depending on the areas being treated.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER MY DERMAL FILLERS APPOINTMENT?
Depending on the scope of your tailored treatment, you can expect to see results immediately that will improve over following 3-4 weeks. Patients may find they require multiple treatments to achieve their desired result, while others may need less intervention and require minimal treatments to maintain their appearance.
HOW LONG WILL DERMAL FILLERS LAST?
The effects of fillers are quite long lasting, especially with maintenance treatments and can last for approximately 2–3 years.
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF DERMAL FILLERS?
Patients may notice slight swelling and bruising at the treatment site. These side effects usually disappear within the first week after treatment. Patients can resume most activities immediately. Your health care practitioner will review all the rare potential side effects at your complimentary initial consultation.
PRE-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DERMAL FILLERS
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Do not consume alcoholic beverages at least 24 hours prior to treatment (alcohol may thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising)
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Avoid anti-inflammatory/blood thinning medications, if possible, for a period of 2 weeks before treatment. Medications and supplements such as aspirin, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Omega 3/Fish Oil supplements, Ibuprofen and other NSAIDS have a blood thinning effect and can increase the risk of bruising and swelling after injections.
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Schedule your Dermal Filler and Botox appointment at least 2 weeks prior to a special event which you may be attending, such as a wedding or a vacation. Results from the Dermal Filler and Botox injections will take approximately 4 to 7 days to appear. Also bruising and swelling may be apparent in that time period.
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Discontinue Retin-A 2 days before and 2 days following your treatment.
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Reschedule your appointment at least 24 hours in advance if you have a rash, cold sore or blemish on the area.
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Reschedule your appointment for Dermal filler if you have had a viral illness, have taken antibiotics, or have had any kind of dental procedures in the previous two weeks.
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Be sure to have a good breakfast, including food and drink before your procedure. This will decrease the chances of light-headedness during your treatment.
POST-TREATMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DERMAL FILLERS
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Avoid significant movement or massage of the treated area.
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Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
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Avoid extensive sun or heat for 72 hours.
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Avoid consuming excess amounts of alcohol or salts to avoid excess swelling.
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If you have swelling you may apply a cool compress for 15 minutes each hour.
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Use Tylenol for discomfort.
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Try to sleep face up and slightly elevated if you experience swelling.
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Take Arnica tablets to help the bruising and swelling, start at least 2 days prior to injections.
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Please do not hesitate to call our office should you have any questions or concerns regarding your Dermal Filler treatment.