How to Avoid Bruising With Injections
How to Avoid Bruising With Injections
When deciding to get procedures like Botox or Fillers most people want to have little to no bruising post treatment. Even the most experienced and knowledgeable injector can give a client a bruise, redness or bumps after a treatment. However, there are a few pre- and post-treatment tips that can minimize your chances of bruising. Always follow your medical professional's instructions and be sure to ask any questions you have.
Pre-Treatment
Certain vitamins or over-the-counter medications you take can cause the blood to thin, giving you a greater chance at bruing. Always check with your doctor before stopping medications as they may be needed for medical reasons. The following are supplements to discontinue (if applicable) 5-7 days prior to injections.
- Aspirin, Excedrin or Ibuprofen (Aleve, Advil) - Tylenol is ok to use if you need a pain medication.
- St. John’s Wort
- Omega 3 Fatty Acids
- Vitamin E (your multivitamin is ok)
- Ginko Bilboa
- Ginseng
Besides the list above try to avoid garlic, alcohol, and caffeine a couple days before your treatment as well! You can take Arnica 30c pellets orally (found at Hi Health or Whole Foods) 3 days prior to your treatment to help prevent bruising. Be sure to follow instructions on the label. Consuming Pineapple a few times a day for 1-2 days prior to your treatment can lessen side effects. Bromelain is found in pineapple juice and can naturally help with inflammation and swelling. If you are prone to cold sores around the mouth or near the injection site, be sure to discuss with your medical professional about how to prevent an outbreak. Most likely they will give you a script for an antiviral medication.
During the Treatment
When having an injection treatment such as fillers, we at ZONA Med Spa use a topical numbing cream to help you feel more comfortable. Throughout your treatment the medical professional applies pressure followed by ice to any spots that bleed to ensure a lower chance of bruising.
Post-Treatment
After care for your injection treatment is important. Be sure to follow the instructions given to you by the medical professional. Some common injection related reactions may occur including redness, swelling, tenderness, itching and bruising at the injection site. Here are some general post-care instructions for a smooth recovery. Ice as much as you can for the first 48 hours, 15 minutes on and 15 minutes off several times a day. Apply Arnica gel or cream to injection sites and continue taking Arnica orally for 5 days, following instructions on label. Avoid any exercise, saunas, yoga or hot showers for 48 hours or until swelling resolves. Avoid sleeping on your face, getting facials or massages. Do not wear any tight fitting objects to the area injected such as hats, ski or scuba masks. The duration of post treatment reactions can depend on individual healing characteristics and how aggressive the treatment was.
Results
Remember that it takes time to see full results of a treatment. Injectables such as Botox can take up to two weeks to fully kick in. Filler injectables can take a couple days to see a final result as swelling will reduce and the product has settled in. It is important to have realistic expectations with the results of fillers as they do not “get rid of” all your wrinkles. You can expect “significant improvement” not complete wrinkle removal. Having a consultation with your medical professional may be the best place to start.
