Dermal fillers are a painless and non-surgical process, but it may feel uncomfortable when you are going to have it done for the first time. You aren’t alone, according to the Aesthetic Society, over the past five years, the use of injectable procedures has increased by 39 percent. The best way to prepare for your appointment is to educate yourself about the process to have an understanding of what to expect.
What are Dermal Fillers?
A dermal filler can help diminish fine facial lines while restoring fullness and volume in your face. Dermal fillers can soften creases in the face, enhance contours, and plump thin lips. In addition, a dermal filler can help improve the way scars look and decrease the shadow caused by the lower eyelid.
Before Your Dermal Filler, You Should
There are some steps you should take before your dermal filler appointment to reduce the swelling and bruising at the site.
One Week Prior
It would be best if you avoided a blood thinner like Motrin, Alive, Aspirin, and Ibuprofen. You should also avoid taking supplements like garlic, Vitamin E, St John’s Wort, and Gingko Blob.
Two Days Prior
You should avoid products you put on your skin like Glycolic Acid, Tretinoin (Retin-A), Retinol, Retinoids, and anti-aging products. You should avoid tweezing, bleaching, waxing, or hair removal cream on the area that will be treated. It is recommended that you do not take Arnica to help decrease the chance of bruising.
Twenty-Four Hours Prior
You should not drink alcohol.
Day of Treatment
You should come to the office with your face washed and free of makeup. You may receive a topical anesthetic to numb the area during the procedure.
General Recommendations to Follow
If you have experienced a cold sore in the past, there is a risk that the puncture of the needle could cause another cold sore to erupt. Therefore, you should alert your doctor if you have had them in the past. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, do not get a dermal filler. If you are allergic to any ingredients used, do not get dermal fillers. You should avoid them if you have any neurological disorders. If you have any questions or are interested in getting a dermal filler, you should contact your doctor immediately with any questions.