Northwest Face & Body

Tips & Tricks: Botox And Facial Filler

Dr. Ludwig Allegra

March 13, 2024

Non-invasive cosmetic treatments retain a top position among aesthetic procedures across the world. Botox and dermal fillers are the most popular options for these facial rejuvenation treatments. Dermal fillers can create lift and add volume to almost any feature. Botox smooths wrinkles and lines, leaving patients with a softer, younger-looking appearance.

Botox and dermal fillers require significantly less preparation and recovery than surgical procedures. However, a few tips and tricks can help you see the best possible outcome from your injections.

Before Botox And Dermal Filler Injections: Preparation Tips & Tricks

The most common side effect with injections of dermal fillers and Botox is bruising. Fortunately, you can take a few simple steps before and after surgery to prevent excess swelling, bruising, and other side effects.

Avoid Blood Thinners

Both prescription and some over-the-counter pain medicines cause bruising after injections. If possible, refrain from taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) for a day or two before and after your session of Botox or dermal fillers.

Don’t Drink Alcohol

The reason you should avoid blood thinners is the same reason you should stop drinking one to two days before your injections. Alcohol can have a similar effect on the blood, leading to an increased chance of bruising.

Apply Ice Packs

Some practices encourage patients to use ice packs before their session. Cold compresses can help prevent bruising and swelling, leading to a smoother recovery.

Clean Your Skin

When you get Botox or facial filler injections, a freshly washed face can make all the difference. Clean and sanitary skin helps prevent bacteria from entering an injection site and causing an infection. If you are coming from work or errands, bring a makeup-removing wipe, though don’t worry if you forget. Most practices will have a supply on hand for patients to use.

Eat A Snack

Grab lunch or a light snack before you head into your appointment. Some patients may have an adverse reaction to needles and may feel light-headed after getting injections, just as they would if they had their blood drawn. Eating before your appointment can help prevent this effect.

After Facial Filler And Botox Injections: Tips & Tricks For Maximum Results

Proper post-treatment care will ensure you see good results and avoid adverse reactions after your session.

Don’t Reapply Makeup

To prevent infection, don’t touch up your makeup for the remainder of the day. Keeping your face clean can also help avoid irritation after your injections.

Avoid Touching Your Face

Touching or rubbing your face after your session can irritate the injection sites and expose them to bacteria. Refrain from touching your face for at least four hours.

Relax

A session of injections may not be as taxing as a surgical procedure, but you should still take it easy after your appointment. Don’t lie down for several hours following the injections since this can cause the medicine to shift out of the target area and become less effective. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least a day after your injections to prevent bruising and swelling.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is always good for your skin; however, you can increase the effectiveness of most injectables by drinking adequate amounts of water after your session.

More Ice

You can use ice packs again after treatment to help with swelling or bruising. Applying ice will help your face heal so you can see your maximum results

Conclusion

Whether you are searching for a treatment for wrinkles or a way to plump up your cheeks or lips, Botox and dermal fillers are viable options. With some simple before and after tips and tricks, you can ensure you will see the best results from your injection session.

Northwest Face & Body provides the best patient care and non-invasive cosmetic treatments. Schedule a consultation today by calling (425) 576-1700 or book an appointment online.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Ludwig Allegra

Dr. Ludwig Allegra has provided Bellevue, Kirkland, and the surrounding areas with premier plastic surgery procedures for over two decades.