Our skin and internal structure of our face changes as we age. Bones atrophy, fat pads shrink, skin loses moisture, collages and elasticity. All these result in loss of volume and appearance of wrinkles or fine lines. One of the ways you can get back your youthful look is through various surgical procedures such as face lift. But if you don’t want to opt in for surgery there are alternative non-surgical methods, such as dermal fillers.
With the use of dermal fillers, you can restore the youthful look of your face by adding volume, structure and getting rid of those wrinkles and fine lines. Next to surgical procedures, dermal fillers are next big thing to take off years of your face and to look rested, refreshed and radiant.
It’s important to note that as with all cosmetic procedures (both surgical and non-surgical) dermal fillers also carry certain risks. But with the proper preparation of the patient, the risks can be minimized. Here are some Dos and Don’ts which should help your process.
You should get dermal fillers from a reputable injector
The market is full of different types of dermal fillers. The type and quality of the filler itself matters, of course. But what matters more is the experience and the quality of the injector itself.
People aren’t born the same way and they don’t age the same way. How you age is determined by your lifestyle, how much are you exposing yourself to sunlight, whether you smoke, how healthy is your diet and so on. Even when you take a good look at your face, you will see that one half might look slightly different than the other. For example, your left side could have crow’s feel due to sun exposure (this is the driver’s side of your face) and maybe the other side has droopy eye.
Thorough consultation with an experience dermal filler injector can ensure that you achieve natural and well-balanced results. Using the right type and amount of fillers and injecting them into the right spot might sound easy, but it’s not.
A skilled dermal filler injector with years of experience knows the craft and you can feel more comfortable that you will get the results that you’re looking for.
Dermal filler should be planned ahead
No matter if you’ve been thinking about dermal fillers for a while or you just started to think about them, you should think about your options.
Don’t rush into anything. After all, it’s a medical procedure that has to be done by a licensed medical professional.
With careful planning, you will feel well prepared and can dive in more comfortably. If you want to look radiant and fresh before an important event e.g. wedding, graduation etc. you should start planning a few months before. During that time, the professional will evaluate your case, recommend the best approach and get you the results you want.
Sudden and drastic changes before an event can actually do more harm than good. But if you take it gradually, and you don’t like the results, you can ask for an alteration that will get you there where you want to be.
Treatment care before and after is crucial
Once you’ve reached a decision to move forward with dermal fillers, the practitioner will go over the list of Dos and Don’ts so that you’re well prepared for the treatment and that you know what to do after it. Following these instructions will ensure that you’re prepared, lower the risk of any complications and provide the results that you want!
Do’s before dermal fillers treatment
- Get familiar with the associated risks and understand them
- If you suffer from cold sores, have antivirals handy
- Make sure that you inform your practitioner about any medication you’re taking (regularly or occasionally)
- Hydration is key – both for your overall health and for dermal fillers too
- If you’re prone to bruising, take Arnica supplements. They promote good blood circulation
Do’s after your dermal fillers treatment
- Some swelling and bruising is to be expected. It can last from a day to a week or two
- If you experience pain, abnormal bruising or swelling, contact your practitioner
- After the treatment, ice the area intermittently. This reduces the swelling, lessens the pain and discomfort. And make sure you cover the ice with a wipe or towel
Don’ts BEFORE the treatment
- It’s strongly advised not to wear makeup. If you do, it will be removed anyway
- Dermal filler treatments are not recommended while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding
- Don’t take over-the-counter blood-thinning medication such as Ibuprofen or Aspirin or any pain relief in the first few days after your treatment. It’s best to consult with the practitioner what medication to avoid and if you’re taking some medication regularly, consult your practitioner about it.
- Refrain from consuming any herbal supplements at least for a week before your treatment
- Don’t consume alcohol at least 24-48 hours before your appointment
- Make sure that you wear sunscreen when stepping out of your home
Post treatment Don’ts
- Touching the treated area can lead to infections. So make sure that you don’t touch it
- Don’t consume alcohol in the first 48 hours after your treatment
- Avoid exercising for 48 hours after getting the dermal fillers
- Massaging the treated area e.g. facials or facial waxing is strongly discouraged
- Don’t wear makeup at least foe 24 hours
- Make sure that you wear sunscreen when you step out of your home
When used properly and by an experienced professional, dermal fillers can be an incredible treatment and can provide amazing results. Following the instructions is important in order to achieve the best results. And if you think that surgical alternatives could be a better option for you, contact Dr. Kotoske and schedule a consultation.
