How to Prevent Bruising After BOTOX or Dermal Fillers

Getting Botox or dermal fillers is a safe, effective way to temporarily reduce or eliminate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But while these injectable cosmetic products are known for delivering beautiful, natural looking results that begin to take full effect in just a few days or weeks, it is not uncommon to experience some bruising immediately after treatment. The good news is that in many cases, this can either be prevented or greatly minimized. Here are a few ways you can reduce your risk of bruising after receiving Botox or dermal fillers, so you can focus on your results instead of unwanted side effects!

Avoid Exercise

One of the most important aftercare instructions following any injectable cosmetic product is to avoid exercise for a day or two following your treatment. That’s because although one of the goals of working out is to get your blood pumping, this can work against you following injections by increasing your risk of bruising. Thus, give yourself a few days off after treatment so your body has a chance to heal.

Temporarily Discontinue Certain Medications

Certain medications that contain blood thinners will increase your risk of bruising, including:

• Heparin
• Aspirin
• NSAIDs such as naproxen or ibuprofen
• Warfarin
• Clopidogrel
• Non-Vitamin K-dependent oral anticoagulants

If you take these as a prescription from your physician, please be sure to discuss your options prior to getting Botox or dermal fillers, as temporarily stopping use may not be recommended.

Abstain from Alcohol

Drinking an occasional glass of alcohol is harmless for many people, but it can increase your risk of bruising following Botox or dermal fillers because it thins the blood and decreases clotting time. Thus, be sure to abstain from consuming it 24 hours prior to and following your injections for best results.

Try an Arnica Supplement

Arnica is a supplement derived from a perennial flowering plan which is found in sunny locations at high elevations. For centuries, it has been used as a homeopathic treatment for a variety of ailments such as bruising and inflammation. It is commercially available online, as well as at many pharmacies and vitamin stores in the form of swallowable pills or sublingual tablets (pills that dissolve under the tongue). For best results, begin using it four to five days before your injections.

Apply Ice Packs

Finally, one of the easiest and most effective ways to reduce pain, swelling, and bruising following injections is to apply a cold pack or ice pack directly to the treated area. This will constrict the blood vessels, slowing the flow of blood to your injection sites.

Remember, cosmetic injectables like Botox and dermal fillers are a safe, effective way to improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and volume loss in the face, but they can sometimes cause minor bruising immediately following treatment. To reduce your risk of this uncomfortable side effect occurring, be sure to follow the above tips for best results!

About Our Practice

At Gerome & Patrice Family Dentistry, Dr. Mark Gerome and Dr. Gina Patrice are proud to offer Botox and dermal fillers for patients looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles in the face. To learn more about these incredible, long-lasting products and how they can give you a more youthful, streamlined appearance, schedule a consultation on our website or call us today at 513-677-1349.