Dermal fillers are hyaluronic acid-based injections used to replace lost volume in the face due to aging or enhance areas of the face non-surgically. They involve minimally-invasive injections of very small amounts and require little downtime. Moderate results can be seen immediately but because injections improve hydration, full results are not seen until approximately 14-30 days depending on the area treated and individual healing. Commonly treated areas include cheeks, chin, lips, jawline, hands and nasolabial folds with results lasting between 4 -24 months and beyond. We carry Teoxane, Belotero and Revanesse brands. To enhance patient safety and outcomes, our clinic nurses routinely conduct ultrasound injections.
Before Your Treatment
Provide a detailed and accurate medical history including medications and previous aesthetic treatments/complications. You cannot undergo aesthetic treatments aside from some skin care options while pregnant or breastfeeding.
Consider the aftercare instructions/downtime as well as timeline for expected results prior to scheduling your treatment. Do not undergo aesthetic treatments right before a vacation or special event.
Avoid anti-inflammatory and over-the-counter blood thinning medications/supplements for 1-2 weeks before your treatment as they increase the risk of bruising and swelling. These include, but are not limited to, the following: , aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, St. John’s wort, omega 3/fish oils. Ensure you seek advice from your prescriber before holding or discontinuing any medications. Also avoid tanning, hair removal, sunburn, and alcohol prior to treatment.
Be sure to eat a good meal and drink plenty of fluids prior to your procedure to reduce the chances of becoming lightheaded.
Cancel your appointment if you are acutely ill or have a rash or cold sore in the treatment area. Those with a history of cold sores (Herpes Simplex 1) should take a course of antiviral medication in advance of procedures in the perioral area.
If possible, please come to your appointment with your face make-up free and freshly washed.
What To Expect At Your Treatment
Your provider will begin with ‘before’ photos and will then map out your treatment area. Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed before injections are initiated. Handheld ultrasound may be used to assess the underlying structures to determine the safest method of injection. Dermal filler will then be injected with either a needle or blunt tipped cannula.
Most clients report the sensation as pressure rather than discomfort but topical and/or injectable anesthesia may be used.
The treatment time depends on the location, technique and amount of filler being placed. Typically, 1-3 syringes are injected at one appointment and additional filler is reserved for subsequent appointments after 2 weeks of healing time.
Immediately following treatment, you may have redness, swelling and possible soreness or bruising which is managed with ice in-office and at home.
Since initial results can be seen immediately, ‘after’ photos are taken and clients can expect further developing results as the hyaluronic acid filler attracts hydration to the injected area.
After Your Treatment
No vigorous massage or movement of treated area
Avoid excess alcohol, sun, and heat for 72 hours
No straining, lifting or vigorous exercise for 24 hours
Bruising and swelling can occur up to 72 hours after treatment. Use arnica cream/tablets and ice to treat
Use acetaminophen and/or ice for 10 min max per hour for any discomfort
Avoid wearing make-up for 6 hours
Sleep upright for 72 hours