Dermal Fillers and Injectables in Dedham

Pre-Treatment Instructions

• To minimize swelling and bruising and ultimately achieve the best results, you should avoid all medications, supplements, and substances that may thin your blood for a minimum of one week before treatment. This includes over-the-counter NSAIDs such as Motrin, ibuprofen, aspirin, and Aleve. Herbal supplements that may promote bruising and swelling include garlic, Ginkgo Biloba, St. John's Wort, garlic, and omega-3 capsules. You should also avoid smoking. If you have any known cardiovascular problems, you should consult your doctor before discontinuing aspirin.
• Let your provider know if you have a history of Perioral Herpes, as you may need to take antiviral medication. They may prescribe Valtrex 500 mg BID to take for a total of five days, beginning two days before your treatment.
• For at least two days before treatment, you will need to avoid topical "anti-aging" products such as Tretinoin retinol, retinoids, alpha hydroxy acid, or glycolic acid.
• You should not drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before your treatment to minimize bruising.
• If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to any of your treatment's ingredients, or suffer from any neurological disorders, you should not receive dermal fillers.

Post-Treatment Instructions

• Avoid massaging, moving, or applying pressure to the treated area unless your provider has specifically instructed you to do so.
• Skip strenuous workouts for at least 24 hours.
• Avoid sun and heat exposure for a minimum of 72 hours.
• Limit alcohol and salt intake to avoid excessive swelling.
• If swelling does occur, you may apply a cool compress to the treated area for 15 minutes every hour.
• You can alleviate discomfort with acetaminophen (Tylenol).
• Try to avoid sleeping with your face in contact with your pillow. Also, sleeping with your head slightly elevated can help to reduce swelling.
• Take Arnica (commonly found in health food stores) to help the bruising and swelling. You can begin taking Arnica two days prior to injections or earlier for maximum benefits.
• Wait a minimum of four weeks before undergoing skincare or laser treatments.