Dermal fillers have become one of the most popular non-surgical anti-aging treatment. The downtime is minimal and the recovery (when you follow your cosmetic surgeon’s guidelines) are amazing.
We already discussed what you should and what you shouldn’t do before and after your dermal filler treatment. But let’s add a bit more to the “DON’T” list and answer some of the most frequently asked questions about dermal fillers.
What definitely not to do before dermal filler treatment?
Before your dermal filler treatment (or basically any cosmetic procedure, whether it’s surgical or non-surgical) you should avoid:
- Consuming alcohol
- Taking over-the-counter painkillers
- Taking herbal supplements
- Blood-thinning medication (you run a risk of bleeding)
- Vigorous exercise the day before and after the procedure
Dermal fillers FAQ
What’s it like to get fillers?
Before your cosmetic surgeon injects you with the fillers, he will apply a thin layer of numbing cream in order to reduce any pain or discomfort you might feel during the procedure.
Furthermore, dermal fillers also contain a numbing component which makes the treatment more comfortable. So you don’t need to worry about extensive pain or discomfort!
Some minor discomfort or swelling is a perfectly normal response and it’s to be expected. In order to lessen both, you can apply ice to the treated area. However, as we mentioned before, don’t apply ice directly to your skin. Instead, wrap it in a towel.
Can dermal fillers ruin your face?
The main goal of fillers is to enhance your face. They do this by improving the contouring of your face and replace the lost volume. Of course, in order to achieve great results, you also need to have a skilled, experienced and licensed injector. So make sure that you invest time and effort in finding the right one.
Can drinking water help fillers?
Staying well hydrated is beneficial for your overall health. Drinking water is the best and simplest way to stay hydrated. If your injector has injected you with hyaluronic filler, drinking water can only enhance the effects. So make sure that you drink plenty of water!
When will the fillers settle?
There is no specific rule or timeframe when the fillers will settle. It all depends from patient to patient and of course the area that has been treated. However, in most cases, dermal fillers settle in about two weeks
Can I still sleep on my side after the treatment?
In the first few days after having your dermal filler treatment, we highly recommend that you don’t sleep on your side. It’s best if you lay on your back and keep your head slightly elevated. The slight elevation will provide just enough comfort that you can sleep, but it won’t put any kind of pressure on the treatment site. Plus, this will help reduce the swelling faster.
What should I avoid after the fillers treatment?
For the next 2-3 days you should avoid exercise, makeup, alcohol and blood-thinning medication. If you need to take some medication, make sure that you consult with your treating injector first.
Will massaging the treated areas help?
Under no circumstance should you massage the treated area, at least for a week. Dermal fillers will need some time to settle and massing the area too early might ruin the end results. After a week though, you can gently massage the area to mould the fillers but before doing so, make sure that you check with your injector first.
We understand that in the first few days after the treatment might feel some discomfort, swelling and you’d think that massaging will make things better. It won’t. Instead try using ice packets (again, don’t put the ice directly on your skin) to lessen the discomfort and swelling.
Is the dermal filler treatment painful?
This depends from patient to patient. Some people have a higher pain threshold and don’t feel any discomfort at all. But the majority of patients usually report some minimal discomfort during the treatment.
How can I wash my face after dermal filler treatment?
Keeping your face nice and clean is essential for good recovery. You can of course wash your face and you should do so gently. Use non-active face cleansers and avoid intense rubbing or massaging the face.
How much fillers will I need?
There’s no precise scale or ration on how much dermal fillers will you need. Each patient is individual and unique and will require a different amount of fillers. It all depends on the amount of volume that you want to replace and the area you want to treat. This will all be determined during your consultation.
What’s the ideal age for the treatment?
The is no right age when you can start with dermal fillers. The perfect time is when there is noticeable volume loss OR you wish to enhance a certain feature. Some patients want to improve their looks at a younger age and have a more contoured look, while others simply want to turn back the clock and look younger.
How long does the effect last?
The effects of fillers aren’t permanent. Depending on the type that was used and on the treated area, the effects can last between 6 months and 2 years.
