A dermal filler treatment is a highly effective, non-invasive solution for targeting a wide range of concerns. That said, no matter how excited you may be to see the results, you may be feeling a little bit nervous before your first filler appointment. Don’t worry – it’s completely natural!
In order to calm your nerves and get you ready for your session, let’s equip you with all the information you should know about dermal fillers. Below, we’ll talk about what you should expect before, during, and after your filler treatment!
What Do Dermal Fillers Do?
First things first: let’s talk about exactly how fillers work!
As you might know, the body produces less collagen as we age, which results in thinner, less elastic skin and loss of volume. Dermal fillers are injected beneath the surface of the skin to plump and address the reduction of volume and elasticity. Facial fillers can be used to fill in wrinkles and soften lines (like marionette lines and nasolabial folds), and can also target sagging and bring a more youthful fullness to the face. For the lips, fillers plump, hydrate, smooth lines, and help with symmetry.
Beyond these specific concerns, fillers can also help with other aesthetic needs. This includes softening recessed scars and helping to balance asymmetry in the face.
What to do Before Your Appointment
There isn’t too much you need to do to prepare for your first filler treatment. Simply read up on what to expect (you’re already one step ahead!), and try to drink plenty of water and maintain a healthy diet so that your body is best prepared for the session.
That said, there are a few things to avoid in the days leading up. In order to minimize your risk of bruising, a few days before, don’t take any blood thinning medications (like ibuprofen and aspirin) or drink any alcohol.
A couple of days before, you’ll also want to steer clear of strong topical skincare products, such as retinoids and chemical exfoliants. These types of products may cause irritation at the injection site. On the same note, avoid doing any facial hair removal treatments in the days before your session.
On the day of your appointment, feel free to come in with a bare face. Your skin will be cleaned prior to the injections to reduce risk of infection, so any makeup will be removed.
What to Expect During the Session
Now that you know what you need to do before your appointment, let’s talk about the key things to expect once you arrive for your treatment.
How Long is a Dermal Filler Session?
This will depend on how many areas of the face are being treated, but on average, it’s a pretty quick session. The treatment itself is typically only about 15 to 30 minutes, so you’ll be in and out in no time!
Do Dermal Fillers Hurt?
Naturally, this is one of the most asked questions of first-time filler patients! The injections are done using a thin needle, which causes a slight pinch or sting. That said, there are a few pain-reducing techniques used to help you feel as comfortable as possible during the quick treatment!
A topical numbing cream is applied before all lip filler treatments and can be used for other fillers by request. You may also choose to squeeze on a stress ball, or hold a vibrational tool on your face to redirect the pain. We can also do deep breathing exercises to help calm any nerves!
What are the Side Effects of Dermal Fillers?
Some normal filler side effects you might experience after the injections include swelling, tenderness, and mild bruising. These side effects will typically resolve within a few days. You might also feel bumps or lumps at the sites of the injections, which should subside within four weeks.
When Will I See Results?
The final results won’t be instantaneous, but you may see some improvements soon after your session. That said, don’t expect the filler to fully kick in until about 4 to 6 weeks after your appointment! This is the amount of time needed for the filler to completely integrate into the body.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
While fillers aren’t permanent, the results do hold for an impressive amount of time. How long fillers last will depend on where they are injected and the specific solution used. That said, on average, you can expect the results to last for at least 6 to 12 months after your session. To maintain your results, you’ll want to schedule a follow-up appointment every 6 months.
Taking Care After Your Appointment
Since fillers are non-invasive, there isn’t any downtime involved. For the most part, you’ll be able to return to your typical routine right after your appointment! In order to minimize any swelling and tenderness and allow your body to heal as quickly as possible, apply ice and stay hydrated in the days after the injections, and continue to pass on any alcoholic drinks. You’ll also want to avoid touching or putting pressure on the area for a few days afterwards.
For at least 24 hours, take it easy and skip any exercise or strenuous activity to allow the filler to settle and prevent any further swelling. For the same reason, it’s best to avoid exposure to the heat (such as through hot showers, saunas, or hot tubs).
During this time, keep in mind that your skin will be sensitive, so do your best to avoid sun exposure to prevent any damage. It’s also best to skip stronger skincare products or treatments (like chemical exfoliants, retinoids, and peels) for at least a day after your appointment so that your skin can heal.
While this covers some of the most common concerns of patients scheduling their first filler treatment, you may have additional questions pop up. Please feel free to ask any and all questions you may have before, during, or after your appointment. This is the best way to ensure you leave the session feeling calm and confident with your results!
Stay Beautiful,
Nurse Sheena
