What You Should Know Before Getting Dermal Fillers

Are you considering getting dermal fillers? Not exactly sure what to expect?

Look no further, we’ve come up with a list of frequently asked filler questions to help you get a better understanding of fillers and what to expect.

What are dermal fillers/what do they do?

Dermal fillers are an injectable treatment done by one of our licensed nurses, that can be used to restore volume, smooth out lines, contour, plump lips, and more! 

As we age, we tend to lose facial volume and notice more lines and wrinkles. To combat that, fillers are a great option to restore the youthful appearance that everyone is constantly seeking.

What is the difference between Botox & fillers?

Botox temporarily relaxes the muscle which helps smooth the appearance of wrinkles. Fillers can help with the appearance of wrinkles as well, but it does so by adding a gel like product to fill the lines. In addition to reducing the appearance of wrinkles, fillers can be used to restore volume, contour, and plump, which Botox cannot do.

Different types of fillers:

Here at DermFx, we offer a wide variety of fillers to help achieve your aesthetic goals. Whether it be adding volume to the cheeks, smoothing out your smile lines, or contouring your jawline, we have the perfect filler just for you. We have hyaluronic acid fillers such as Juvederm, Belotero, and Restylane as well as calcium-based fillers such as Radiesse. 

If the variety of different fillers seem overwhelming to you, don’t worry! Your provider will help you determine the best dermal filler for you during your free consultation.

Things to do/avoid before fillers:

If you have a special event coming up, make sure that you schedule your treatment at least 2-3 weeks in advance to allow adequate time for any bruising or swelling to go down.

Avoid blood thinning medications such as Advil, Aspirin, Motrin and Aleve. Also avoid vitamins that can thin the blood such as omega 3 fish oil, ginseng, vitamin E, St. John’s Wort, and Flax Seed oil at least 3-5 days prior to treatment.

Alcohol may thin the blood and may increase the risk of bruising, so it’s best to avoid any alcohol 24 hours before your treatment.

If you have a history of bruising, we recommend taking Arnica pills 4 days before and after your treatment. These can easily be found at your local pharmacy, Whole Foods, or Sprouts.

What should I expect during my filler appointment?

First, you will discuss your aesthetic goals with your provider, and they will come up with the best treatment plan for you. Once your provider decides the best filler option for you, they will then apply numbing cream to the area to make the treatment more comfortable. After 15 minutes, the provider will remove the numbing cream, cleanse the area, and start the treatment. Your entire appointment time should take no more than 45 minutes.

What should I expect after my filler treatment?

You will experience redness, swelling, and possible bruising which is completely normal after getting filler.

It takes up to 14 days for the filler to completely settle, so it is not uncommon for lips to look uneven or lumpy while the swelling is still present.

What are the post-care instructions?

You can apply ice to the area for 10 minutes every hour to reduce swelling and bruising. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours after treatment because this could cause more inflammation. Avoid intense heat such as lasers, saunas, and tanning beds for 48 hours after treatment. 

How long do dermal fillers last?

Fillers typically last anywhere from 5-18 months, depending on the type of filler you choose, your body’s metabolism, and the area being treated. We also offer Bellafill which lasts up to 5 years!

Still unsure if fillers can help you achieve your aesthetic goals? Schedule your FREE consultation with one of our licensed nurses today!