Filler injections are a popular treatment for enhancing facial features, but bruising can sometimes occur due to the injection process. While some bruising is natural, you can take steps before and after your procedure to minimize it and promote faster healing.
Before Your Filler Appointment
- Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications and Supplements
- Why: Medications and supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E can increase the risk of bruising by thinning the blood.
- How: Stop taking these substances 7–10 days before your appointment (with your doctor’s approval). Most on actual blood thinning medicines for cardiac conditions have to keep them on.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption
- Why: Alcohol can dilate blood vessels and increase the risk of bruising.
- How: Avoid alcohol for at least 24–48 hours before your procedure.
- Use Arnica Supplements or Cream, or try Bromelain
- Why: Arnica is a natural remedy that may reduce bruising and swelling.
- How: Begin taking Arnica supplements or applying an Arnica cream 1–2 days before your treatment.
- Plan Around Your Menstrual Cycle
- Why: Some women may bruise more easily during their menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes.
- How: Schedule your filler appointment at a time when you are less likely to be menstruating.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthily
- Why: Proper hydration and a balanced diet support overall skin health and healing.
- How: Drink plenty of water and consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as leafy greens and citrus fruits.
During Your Filler Appointment
- Choose an Experienced Injector
- Why: A skilled injector knows how to minimize trauma to blood vessels, reducing bruising risk.
- How: Select a licensed, experienced provider who specializes in aesthetic treatments. At Hada we are able to use appropriate local anesthetics and when indicated inhalation sedation that can make the process smoother.
- Ask About Cannula Use
- Why: Cannulas (blunt-tipped needles) can reduce bruising by minimizing damage to blood vessels.
- How: Discuss with your injector whether a cannula is an option for your procedure.
After Your Filler Appointment
- Apply Ice or a Cold Compress
- Why: Cold reduces blood flow to the area, minimizing bruising and swelling.
- How: Gently apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for 10–15 minutes at a time in the first 24 hours post-treatment. Be careful to not use ice excessively or it can cause tissue damage.
- Keep Your Head Elevated
- Why: Elevation helps reduce blood flow to the treated area, decreasing the risk of bruising.
- How: Sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights after treatment.
- Avoid Vigorous Activity
- Why: Exercise or other strenuous activities can increase blood pressure, worsening bruising.
- How: Refrain from vigorous physical activity for 24–48 hours after your procedure.
- Skip Heat Exposure
- Why: Heat can dilate blood vessels and increase bruising.
- How: Avoid saunas, hot tubs, hot yoga classes, or hot showers for at least 48 hours.
- Use Arnica or Bromelain Post-Treatment
- Why: These natural remedies may reduce bruising and swelling. Dosage is 500-1000 mg or bromelain daily.
- How: Continue using Arnica cream or taking Bromelain supplements as directed by your provider. Pineapple contains bromelain, but the concentrations are lower than in bromelain supplements. Eating pineapple may not deliver enough bromelain to significantly impact bruising.
- Refrain from Excessive Touching or Massaging the Area
- Why: Manipulating the area can disrupt healing and exacerbate bruising.
- How: Follow your provider’s guidance on when and how to massage (if necessary).
When to Contact Your Provider
- If you notice significant swelling, excessive bruising, or signs of infection (such as redness, warmth, or pain), reach out to your provider immediately for evaluation and advice.
By following these steps, you can minimize the risk of bruising and ensure a smoother recovery after your filler injections.
