There’s a first time for everything, and that certainly applies to cosmetic treatments with injectable neurotoxins and dermal fillers. Whether you’re heading to the med spa for the first time to tackle a few wrinkles with the ever-popular Xeomin® or Botox®, or you’re looking to experience the anti-aging benefits of fabulous fillers, it’s important to be well-informed about what to expect, as well as proper dos and don’ts prior to and following your injectable cosmetic treatment. Here we’ll share valuable industry tips for all you first-timers on how to get the best results possible.
1. Two-Week Rule
If you’re aiming to look your best for an upcoming social event, such as a party, vacation, or wedding, you’ll want to make sure you allow at least two full weeks for your best results to shine through from injectables. While instant results are most often noticed with fillers, there could be some mild bruising and swelling associated with injections that might take a couple of weeks to resolve. With neurotoxins, it generally takes about two weeks for full effects to settle after injections. Keeping this two-week timeline in mind will help ensure you put your best face forward in time for your special event.
2. Cold Sore Prone
If you’re prone to getting cold sores on a fairly regular basis, you’ll want to let your injector know ahead of time as you may need some special medication to prevent a flare-up. This is especially true for those looking to enhance their lips with injectable fillers.
3. Sunning & Sleeping
Pay attention to how you sleep and any prolonged sun exposure in the days following your injectable treatment. Some providers recommend sleeping on your back for a few nights to allow the product to distribute properly and to prevent any further creasing on your sleeping side. Also, daily sunscreen after treatment is essential for preventing any further signs of aging.
4. Vaccines & Injectables
If you have plans for getting any vaccinations, it’s recommended you hold off getting injectables like fillers or neurotoxins for several weeks as vaccines may temporarily weaken your immune system and interfere with treatment.
5. Take A Little Break From Exercise
Feel free to skip the gym for a day or two after your injections. While some small blood vessels may experience slight trauma with injections, it’s usually not enough to cause a sizeable bruise. Exercising, on the other hand, could lead to a more noticeable bruise. So don’t plan on doing anything that involves heavy movement, straining, or excessive pressure until at least 24 hours after your treatment.
6. Preventing Bruising
Though mild, temporary bruising can be a common side effect of injectable treatments, there are steps you can take to minimize it. Stop taking multivitamins, fish oil, non-medical aspirin, or NSAIDS a week before your injectable appointment. Also, be sure to avoid alcohol 24 hours prior to your appointment. Doing so will help to prevent the development of those unsightly purple patches. Your provider will go over all details about what to avoid prior to your procedure.
7. Leave It To The Experts
Above all else, before diving into the wonderful world of aesthetic injectables, be sure to seek your treatment from a licensed, reputable provider who has a proven track record of experience. By far, the biggest risk for experiencing problems with injectables comes with electing treatment from providers who don’t have a firm grasp of facial anatomy or the intricate knowledge of how to use neurotoxins and fillers to achieve the best results. Even minor side effects, such as bruising and swelling, are less likely to occur in the hands of a highly trained professional injector. That said, be sure to do your research and find a provider in your area who fits this crucial criterion.
In the Atlanta area, Elizabeth Whitaker, M.D., F.A.C.S., is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and skilled injector who is known as the “Queen of Faces” by many of her patients. She and her staff at Atlanta Face & Body have all the knowledge and expertise to help you plan your treatment to produce the most desired outcome. If you’re new to injectables, we invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation at our practice by calling (678) 888-3223 today.
