DERMAL FILLERS

• Please arrive with clean, makeup-free, skin so that we may complete proper assessment & determine where to make injections.

• Avoid NSAIDS (i.e. Ibuprofen®, Advil®, Motrin®, Aleve®, Celebrex®), Fish oil, Gingko Biloba, St. John’s Wort and high doses of Vitamin E for one week prior to injection.

• Avoid Retin-A, Tretinoin, and Retinoids for three days prior to injection.

• Avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours prior to injection.

• If bruise easily, may start Arnica tablets one day prior to treatment.

• No dental appointments two weeks prior or two weeks following injectable treatment.

• Clients who are pregnant or nursing are not eligible for neurotoxin treatment.

Dermal fillers contain lidocaine, a common anesthetic, which helps patients tolerate the minor pinching feeling associated with injections. Topical numbing agents can be utilized to lesson discomfort.

One of the things that makes dermal fillers so great is there's little downtime. Immediately after the treatment, there may be redness, bruising, swelling, tenderness and / or itching at or near the injection site. These symptoms are normal and should resolve within a few days. But for this reason we do not recommend scheduling your appointment right before a big event.

Results can be seen immediately after treatment and will get better over the course of 2-3 weeks as the filler integrates with your own tissue. Filler can last anywhere from 6-24 months depending on the filler used and the injection area.

We carry a range of dermal fillers. Our nurse injector will discuss best options to meet your goals during your consultation.

• No makeup immediately following treatment.

• No lying down for four hours.

• Try to sleep on back for 24-48 hours post treatment. Do your best to avoid pushing face into pillow or surface, during this time, to prevent filler migration.

• Avoid touching your face for 24 hours post treatment, except to apply any topicals advised by provider.

• No exercise for 24 hours. Walking is okay.

• Avoid extreme heat or cold for 24 hours.

• No facials for two weeks.

• For lip injections only: no straws, smoking, heavy kissing, or oral sex for two weeks post treatment.

Dermal fillers are a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment used to restore volume, enhance facial contours, and soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. While fillers are generally considered safe when administered by trained medical professionals, it’s important to understand the possible side effects and risks before treatment.

Common Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and temporary, resolving within a few days to two weeks:

• Swelling at the injection site

• Redness

• Bruising

• Tenderness or soreness

• Mild itching or firmness

These reactions are a normal part of the body’s healing process.

Less Common Side Effects

In some cases, patients may experience:

• Small lumps or uneven texture under the skin

• Prolonged swelling

• Temporary asymmetry

Many of these issues improve over time or can be corrected by your provider.

Rare but Serious Risks

Although uncommon, serious complications can occur:

• Vascular occlusion (filler entering a blood vessel)

• Skin necrosis (tissue damage due to reduced blood flow)

• Vision impairment or blindness

• Infection

• Severe allergic reactions

Prompt medical attention is critical if symptoms such as severe pain, skin discoloration, or vision changes occur after treatment.

High-Risk Injection Areas

Certain facial regions have a higher risk due to complex blood vessel anatomy:

• Nose

• Forehead

• Glabella (area between the eyebrows)

• Tear troughs (under-eye area)

For these areas, injector expertise and advanced anatomical knowledge are essential.

How to Reduce Risk

• Choose a licensed and experienced medical provider

• Use FDA-approved dermal fillers

• Follow all pre- and post-treatment instructions

• Attend follow-up appointments as recommended

Final Thoughts

Dermal fillers can offer beautiful, natural-looking results when performed safely. Understanding potential side effects and risks allows patients to make informed decisions and set realistic expectations. Always consult with a qualified medical professional to determine if dermal fillers are right for you.