Preparing for your injectable cosmetic treatment

Any injectable treatment carries a small risk of temporary swelling, bruising or redness. Some patients are more prone than others. As well, patients with a history of cold sores around the lips may find that treatment in this area can lead to a new outbreak.

The following suggestions may help minimise these risks:

• Avoid or minimise alcohol consumption for at least 48 hours prior to your treatment. Alcohol dilates blood vessels and can increase the risk of bruising.
• Avoid strenuous exercise on the day of your treatment, as this increases the heart rate and quickens blood-flow, thus increasing the risk of bruising.
• Avoid green tea, antioxidant tablets, multivitamin tablets, fish oil, herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wart or ginko 1 week prior to your treatment.
• Avoid taking blood-thinning medicines, such as Aspirin/Dispirin, Nurofen, Ibuprofen or any anti-inflammatory medications 1 week prior to your treatment. If taking these medications for medical reasons, always check with your doctor before interrupting your regime. If you need to take a pain medication Panadol or Panadeine will not increase bruising.
• Arnica taken one or two days before and after treatment may help reduce bruising.
• If you are prone to frequent bouts of cold sores, a preventative medication can be prescribed by one of our doctors. When commenced one day prior to your treatment this medication should almost eliminate the risk of cold sores developing. Please contact the practice on 9552 6277 if you develop a cold sore in the area to be treated on the day of your injectable treatment. Your appointment may need to be rescheduled to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
• If you have sunburn, infection, active eczema or psoriasis on the day of your treatment, it is better to let the skin heal before proceeding.
• A good sleep the night before treatment and minimising stress helps with the perception of pain. Remaining calm and relaxed means the procedure will usually proceed with relative comfort.
• If possible avoid make-up for 12 hours after treatment, but subsequently makeup can be used to camouflage bruising should it occur. Dermablend camouflage makeup is available from the practice.
• Spend some quiet time in our lounge after your treatment as advised by your practitioner. Application of ice will minimise your risk of bruising. Post care instructions will be explained and mineral make up may be applied if absolutely necessary so that you can leave Heber Davis feeling confident.

Please contact the clinic if you have any further questions.