How To Prepare for Your FIller Appointment & What To Expect

You’ve been looking forward to your Rhode Island Med Spa appointment and today’s the day for filler! We want you to be well-prepared and know what to expect so you enjoy your experience and love the results.

Every one of our clients receives a careful assessment and our undivided attention. There are also a few simple steps you can take to get ready and we appreciate it! First, please arrive on time so you’re relaxed and not feeling rushed while you’re here. Some procedures require a 10-minute numbing period, and we’ll let you know if that pertains to you.

Making the filler decision

It is totally okay to come in without knowledge about fillers, results, cost, or expectations. We’re here to listen to your ideas or concerns and make recommendations for you to consider. If you have done some research and have photos of yourself or of a look you like, bring those with you.

Before your appointment

• Try to avoid alcohol, fish oil, flax seed oil, multivitamins, NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen and aspirin for 24-72 hours before your appointment to prevent the likelihood of bruising.
• To help prevent bruising, you can use the naturopathic supplements Arnica Montana or Bromelain up to three days before your filler appointment and up to seven days after to help break down bruises.
• Allow yourself time to enjoy doing this for yourself. Put your day aside for just a while so you can look forward to your procedure and results.

During

During your dermal filler appointment, we’ll take before photos, ask questions that guide the assessment, then explain each procedure’s risks, benefits, and possible side effects. Next, we’ll discuss the plan for the day and for future appointments. Once we’re in agreement about the plan and we’ve answered any of your questions, it’s time for the procedure!

Sometimes there are unpleasant reactions including localized pain, mild swelling, tenderness, redness, and/or bleeding or bruising. Needle-related pain or anxiety may result in vasovagal responses (i.e., syncope, hypotension) which may require medical attention from your injector. However, most filler appointments are quick, easy, and almost painless.

After

With dermal filler such as Voluma and Juvederm, bruising is quite common. For 24-48 hours after your procedure, you can reduce the chances of bruising by avoiding alcohol and these activities that cause blood vessels to enlarge: exposure to direct sunlight, steam rooms, saunas, and strenuous exercise.

The best makeup for covering bruises is Dermablend.

For 7-10 days after your appointment, you can use Arnica Montana and Bromelain, naturopathic supplements that help break down bruises faster.

Because most dermal filler is made up of hyaluronic acid, swelling is also common. Sleep slightly elevated if you’d like to avoid additional swelling.

You can also apply a cool compress on the skin but avoid direct skin contact with ice. It is also okay to use a warm washcloth to massage the area gently.

Any lumps, bumps, or small needle marks should subside within a few days.

Do not receive dermal filler if you:

• You have an active skin condition, including cold sores.
• Are pregnant or breast-feeding.
• Have had reactions to Juvéderm in the past.
• Have an allergy to lidocaine.
• Have a history of keloid scarring.
• Have had vaccines or dental work within two weeks.
• Have a current skin infection.
• Sinusitis, dental disease, ear/nose/throat infections.
• History of HIV, lupus, RA (immunosuppression).

Please tell your injector if you are taking one of the following medications:

• Aminoglycoside antibiotics (may increase effects of botulinum toxin)
• Chloroquine and hydroxychloroquine (may reduce effect)
• Blood thinning agents like warfarin or aspirin (may result in bruising)