PRE & POST-CARE INSTRUCTIONS: DERMAL FILLER INJECTIONS

To ensure the best possible experience and results, please review and follow these pre-care and post-care instructions.

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PRE-CARE INSTRUCTIONS

1. Complete Patient Intake Form

Ensure you provide a detailed medical history, including allergies, medications, and previous cosmetic procedures. Your injector will discuss your goals and create a treatment plan at your appointment.

Note: Inform the provider/aesthetic clinic immediately if you have a history of cold sores, as the tox or filler injection process, especially for treatments to the lips may trigger a recurrence. To minimize the risk of an outbreak, please notify your aesthetic provider at least one week before your appointment so that antiviral medication can be prescribed if needed.
 

There is no fee for follow-ups with aesthetic treatments, BUT missed appointments ("no shows") for the follow-up will incur a $100 "no show" fee.

 

2. Consultation

Schedule a consultation to discuss your aesthetic goals, medical history, and any concerns regarding dermal fillers.

 

3. Medications & Supplements

Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) for at least 8 days before your appointment. If

you take prescription blood thinners, consult your provider before discontinuation.

 

4. Cold Sore Prevention

If you have a history of cold sores and the treatment involves the lips, inform your provider at least one week prior to receive antiviral medication.

 

5. Alcohol & Smoking

Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 48 hours before treatment, as they can increase bruising and impact healing.

 

6. Hydration & Skincare

Drink plenty of water and maintain a gentle skincare routine. Avoid harsh exfoliants or chemical peels for one week before treatment.

 

7. Sun Protection

Avoid excessive sun exposure and tanning beds. Sunburn can increase the risk of complications such as hyperpigmentation.

 

8. Day of Treatment

• Do not apply numbing creams or topical products unless instructed.

• Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) one hour before your appointment if needed for comfort.

• Ensure your skin is clean and makeup-free before arrival.

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POST-CARE INSTRUCTIONS

1. Immediate Healing (First 24-48 Hours)

• Expect mild swelling, redness, and tenderness at injection sites.

• Apply a cool compress (15 minutes on, 15 minutes off) as tolerated.

• Avoid touching, pressing, or massaging treated areas unless instructed.

• Avoid alcohol, blood thinners, and strenuous exercise to minimize bruising.

• Sleep with your head elevated to reduce swelling.

 

2. Days 3-7

• Swelling and bruising will gradually subside.

• Some areas may feel firm or uneven as the filler settles.

• Continue gentle skincare and avoid excessive sun exposure.

 

3. Week 1-2

• Most swelling and bruising resolve.

• Any minor asymmetry or lumpiness should even out.

• If needed, schedule a follow-up visit for touch-ups or dissolving.

 

4. Week 3-4 (Final Results)

• The filler is fully integrated, revealing natural-looking results.

• Maintain results with hydration, skincare, and follow-up treatments as needed.

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POST CARE CHECKLIST
 

DO NOT APPLY ANYTHING TO THE SKIN UNTIL THE DAY AFTER TREATMENT:

• No cleanser, moisturizer, or makeup!

• DO NOT massage, touch, or manipulate the injection site.

• Avoid heavy exercise the day of your treatment.

• Ice packs may be used to the treated area during the first 24 hours.

• Ice for 15 minutes on then 15 minutes off as tolerated every hour while awake.

• Avoid dental work for 30 days after filler injections.

• Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach for 4 weeks post-treatment to prevent dispersing the product.

• We recommend you sleep elevated on your back and use pillows to stabilize yourself.

• Sleep with head elevated for 2-3 days to minimize swelling.

• You may take Acetaminophen/Tylenol as directed if you experience any mild tenderness or discomfort.

• Wait a minimum of at least two weeks (or as directed by your provider) before receiving any skin care or laser treatments.

• Facials can be done as long as there is no pressure on the areas filled to prevent the risk of migration. A light touch facial is recommended two weeks after treatment.

• For most patients, the benefits of dermal fillers can be enhanced by using a professional medical-grade skincare system. Fillers add volume but do not address skin pigmentation issues. Skin care may be required to address skin concerns.

• Please contact your provider or a member of the staff for product recommendations.

• If you experience bruising, Arnica Montana natural supplement can be taken as directed to help resolve bruising at a faster rate.

 

Avoid Touching or Pressing:

• Refrain from touching or pressing on the treated areas for the first few hours. This helps prevent the filler from moving or spreading.

 

Gentle Facial Massage:

• If recommended by your provider, perform gentle facial massages on the treated areas as advised. This helps distribute the filler evenly.

 

Cool Compress for Swelling:

• Apply a cool compress to reduce swelling (15 minutes on and 15 minutes off every hour as tolerated while awake). Use a clean cloth or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth.

 

Avoid Strenuous Exercise:

• Similar to toxin injections, avoid intense physical activities and workouts for at least 24 hours post-treatment to minimize bruising and swelling.

 

Avoid Sun Exposure:

• Protect your treated areas from direct sunlight. If going outdoors, use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 50.

 

No Saunas or Hot Baths:

• Avoid saunas, hot baths, or exposure to excessive heat for at least 48 hours post-treatment.

 

No Alcohol or Blood Thinners:

• Refrain from consuming alcohol and blood-thinning medications for the first 24-48 hours, as they can increase the risk of bruising.

• Alcohol can alter the metabolic effects of the medication as it settles.

 

Gentle Cleansing:

• Cleanse your face gently, and avoid harsh skincare products for the first 24 hours.

 

Attend Follow-Up Appointments:

• Schedule and attend any recommended follow-up appointments with your provider to assess your results and address any concerns.

• A four week follow up is essential to determine if the treatment is satisfactory.

• Additional fees apply for re-dosing.

• There is no fee for follow-ups with aesthetic injections, BUT missed appointments ("no shows") for the follow-up will incur a $100 NO SHOW fee charged to the credit card on file.

 

Please note: Individual results and experience vary.

By following these post-care guidelines, you can support your body's recovery after aesthetics injection treatments. It's essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider throughout the post-treatment period.

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POST-TREATMENT RESTRICTIONS

• No makeup, cleanser, or moisturizer on treated areas until the next day.

• Avoid saunas, steam rooms, and hot showers for 48 hours.

• Avoid dental work for 30 days post-filler treatment.

• Do not sleep on your side or stomach for 4 weeks post-treatment.

• Avoid facials, skin treatments, or laser procedures for 2 weeks unless advised otherwise.

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FOLLOW-UP & MAINTENANCE

• A follow-up appointment is expected 2-4 weeks after treatment.

• Additional touch-ups may require an extra fee.

• Missed follow-ups will incur a $100 no-show fee.

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WHEN TO CONTACT US

Seek immediate medical attention and contact us if you experience:

• Severe pain, discoloration, or unusual bruising

• Gray discoloration, skin mottling

• Increasing redness, tingling, or swelling

• Blisters, difficulty swallowing, or facial asymmetry

• Fever or chills

 

For concerns, contact our office immediately:

📞 Arawan MedSpa: 847-383-6217

📱 Text Portal: 424-403-2758

📞 Off Hours, Call Nurse Sunshine's Cell Directly. 
***Contact by Calling Only at 847-421-7400 From the Number Saved In Your Profile***

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Dermal Filler: Patient Expectations & What to Know

 

1. Immediate but Not Final Results

• Some volume enhancement is visible right away, but swelling and minor bruising may occur.

• It takes about 1-2 weeks for fillers to fully settle and show final results.

• Treatment follow up is expected after 2-4 weeks.

 

2. Mild Swelling & Bruising is Normal

• Expect some redness, tenderness, or slight bruising at the injection sites.

• Ice packs and arnica gel can help minimize swelling.

• Avoid alcohol, blood thinners, and intense exercise for 24-48 hours to reduce bruising.

 

3. Natural Look vs. Dramatic Changes

• Fillers enhance and restore lost volume but should not be expected to completely alter facial features.

• A gradual approach may be best for subtle, natural-looking results.

 

4. Longevity Varies

• Hyaluronic acid fillers (e.g., Juvederm, Restylane) last 6-18 months, depending on the area treated.

• Deeper fillers or collagen-stimulating fillers (e.g., Sculptra, Radiesse) can last up to 2 years with maintenance.

 

5. Possible Asymmetry or Unevenness Initially

• Swelling may cause temporary unevenness, which resolves as the filler settles.

• A touch-up may be needed after 2-4 weeks if adjustments are necessary.

 

6. Regular Maintenance is Key

• Fillers are not permanent, and periodic treatments help maintain results.

• Proper skin care, hydration, and avoiding excessive sun exposure help prolong the effects.

• If adjustments are needed, dissolving a hyaluronic acid-based filler (using hyaluronidase) is an option, but this comes at an additional cost.

 

7. Choosing the Right Provider Matters

• An experienced injector understands facial anatomy and can customize treatment for balanced, youthful results.

• At Arawan MedSpa + Wellness, we focus on natural-looking enhancements to restore volume while preserving facial harmony.

 

8. Healing Process After Dermal Fillers

Immediately After Treatment (First 24-48 Hours)

• Mild swelling, redness, and tenderness at injection sites are normal.

• Bruising may occur, especially in delicate areas (e.g., lips, under eyes).

• Apply cold compresses gently to reduce swelling.

• Avoid alcohol, blood thinners, and vigorous exercise to minimize bruising.

 

Days 3-7

• Swelling and bruising gradually subside.

• Some areas may feel slightly firm or uneven as the filler integrates.

• Continue gentle skin care and avoid excessive sun exposure.

 

Week 1-2

• Most swelling and bruising resolve, and the filler settles into place.

• Any minor asymmetry or lumpiness usually evens out.

• If needed, a follow-up visit can be scheduled for touch-ups or dissolving.

 

Week 3-4 (Final Results)

• The filler is fully integrated, revealing the final, natural-looking results.

• Maintain results with proper skin care, hydration, and follow-up treatments as needed.

 

Your comfort and safety are our top priorities. Thank you for trusting Arawan MedSpa + Wellness for your aesthetic care.

 

Warm regards,

Arawan MedSpa Providers
Nurse Sunshine and Dr. Eric de la Cruz MD FACS