If you suspect an emergency, please refer to the “Allergic Reaction Risk: When to Visit the ER After Dermal Fillers” section at the end of this page.
Basic Care Recommendations
Skin filler treatments are used to reduce fine lines, restore lost volume, and achieve a more youthful appearance. Post-treatment care is essential for the treated areas to heal quickly and to minimize the risk of complications.
First 24 Hours
- Facial Expressions: Avoid excessive facial expressions, as these may interfere with the settling of the fillers and affect the results.
- Cold Compress: Unless advised otherwise, you can apply a cold compress to reduce swelling in the treated area. Place the ice pack over a cloth rather than directly on the skin.
- Makeup and Skincare Products: Avoid applying makeup and using irritating skincare products. Wait until your skin has fully healed.
- Water Contact and Swimming: Avoid washing your face or swimming. During this time, handle your skin with care.
First Week
- Alcohol and Smoking: Limit alcohol and smoking to help speed up the healing process and reduce swelling.
- Heat Exposure and Sunlight: Avoid saunas, hot showers, and direct sunlight, as high temperatures may cause the fillers to break down prematurely.
- Avoid Touching and Massaging: Unless advised otherwise by your doctor, avoid prolonged pressure or massaging the treated areas. This may disrupt the placement of the fillers.
Diet and Hydration
- Fluid Intake: Increase your daily water intake to support the healing process. Adequate hydration is essential for skin health.
- Healthy Eating: Consume foods rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and Omega-3 fatty acids. These nutrients enhance the skin’s ability to repair itself.
Warnings
- Side Effects: If you notice severe pain, excessive swelling, or bruising, contact your doctor immediately.
- Follow-Up Appointment: Approximately two weeks after the procedure, a follow-up appointment is scheduled to assess filler compatibility and any potential side effects, as well as to review and evaluate the treatment results. This appointment is crucial for monitoring the condition of the filler and adjusting if necessary.
Conclusion
Following proper post-treatment care after a filler procedure increases the likelihood of success, reduces complication risks, and promotes healthy results. Adhere to your doctor’s advice throughout the treatment and afterward and contact them without delay if any issues arise.
Cosmetic Fillers and Emergencies: When to Contact Your Doctor
If any of the following symptoms occur after dermal filler/skin filler application, contact your doctor immediately without waiting for the follow-up appointment:
- Sudden Onset of Severe and Persistent Pain: Severe pain in the injection site.
- Skin Color Change: Paleness or bluish, purplish discoloration in the treated area.
- Signs of Tissue Necrosis: Hardening under the skin and symptoms of necrosis (tissue death).
- Open Wounds and Erosions: Formation of open wounds and erosions on the skin.
- Redness, Itching, and Rashes: Redness, itching, and rashes around or near the injection site.
If any of these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is required. Your doctor will provide the necessary treatment and, if needed, perform procedures to dissolve or adjust the filler. Early detection can help reduce the impact of these complications and is crucial in preventing more serious health issues.
Allergic Reaction Risk: When to Visit the ER After Dermal Fillers
In rare cases, severe allergic reactions may occur following dermal filler application. The following symptoms require urgent medical attention:
- Shortness of Breath
- Swelling in the Face, Lips, or Tongue
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Skin Redness or Hives
- Nausea, Vomiting, or Diarrhea
If you experience any of these symptoms, go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Prompt intervention can be lifesaving and may help prevent more severe health complications.