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By Maren Stratte, and Andrew Copeland MD
Fillers, those magical little enhancements that help smooth out wrinkles and revitalize the skin, have always been a staple in the world of medical aesthetics, but continue to gain in popularity every day. Whether you're looking to turn back the clock or simply enhance your natural beauty, dermal fillers offer a non-surgical solution. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, it's important to know the dos and don'ts to achieve the best results and avoid potential pitfalls. In this blog post, we'll explore the essential dos and don'ts of fillers to help you make informed decisions about your aesthetic journey.
The Dos:
Consult with a Qualified Practitioner
Selecting a skilled and experienced practitioner is paramount. At Renew, all of our injectors are Registered Nurses and have years of experience administering filler. During your consultation, discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. Many times during consultation, we find that filler may not even be the best course of action to help reach your goals; taking the time to discuss this leads to better results and happier patients.
Set Realistic Expectations
Dermal fillers can work wonders, but they won't perform miracles. Set realistic expectations for what you want to achieve. Your practitioner will help you understand what is feasible and recommend the best treatment plan for your unique situation.
Follow Aftercare Instructions
After your filler treatment, your practitioner will provide specific aftercare instructions. It's essential to follow these guidelines to maximize the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize side effects. This often includes avoiding strenuous exercise, excessive sun exposure, and heat such as hot tubs, saunas, and overly hot showers immediately after the procedure.
Give The Filler Time to Heal
It can take up to two weeks to see the full results of a filler treatment. During this time filler can swell and tend to look uneven. This doesn’t necessarily mean that your filler is “lumpy or bumpy” it’s just healing! Be patient and at the two-week mark after your treatment if you still have concerns, we’re happy to bring you in for a check.
The Don'ts:
Don’t Drink This or Take That
It’s important to avoid alcohol 24 hours before and 24 hours after your injections. As well as taking any ibuprofen or supplements with St. John’s Wort and Ginko Biloba. All of these can thin the blood and make bruising more common or worse.
Don’t Massage The Area
It’s important to let filler heal and settle in its own way. For the first 24-48 hours the filler can still be malleable, so avoid massaging the area, sleeping on your face, or putting any sort of pressure on the area.
Don't Overdo It
Less is often more when it comes to fillers. Overfilling or getting too many treatments at once can result in an unnatural appearance. Your practitioner will guide you on the right amount to achieve a balanced, youthful look.
Don't Ignore Side Effects
Minor swelling, bruising, or redness are common side effects after a filler procedure. If you are ever concerned or confused about what’s normal post-filler, don’t hesitate to contact our office for guidance. In rare cases, complications may occur, so it's important to address them promptly.
Dermal fillers can be a fantastic tool for rejuvenation and enhancement, but like any cosmetic procedure, they require thoughtful consideration and informed decision-making. By following these dos and don'ts, you can navigate your filler journey with confidence and achieve the natural, youthful look you desire. Always remember that your safety and satisfaction should be at the forefront of your aesthetic choices.