One of the most frequently asked questions about injectable treatments is, Will I bruise?
Unfortunately, the answer is, You might or you might not.
What contributes to bruising?
So many variables go in to whether a person will bruise after having injections: are you prone to bruising? Did you drink alcohol the day before? Do you take medicine that thins the blood? What area is being treated?
Bruising is generally more common with filler treatments than with Botox/Dysport injections, but any time a needle goes into skin, there’s a chance of bruising. A bruise can result any time soft tissue is “damaged” in some way.
Pre-treatment considerations
- Limit non-essential medications that thin the blood
- Limit alcohol
- Consider your schedule of important events
- Consider your treatment area
Blood thinners
Common medications and supplements that can thin the blood and thus contribute to bruising are: oral steroids, Ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin), aspirin, Aleve, fish oil, turmeric, and Vitamin E. If possible, these should be avoided for about one week prior to treatment. For prescription medications you take, check with your provider to see if they may thin the blood. And put the drinks down! No alcohol for at least 48 hours before your appointment.
Injection site
Certain treatment areas are more prone to bruising than others, due to the delicate skin or vascularity of the area: mainly lips, perioral, and the tear trough area.
Timing
Give yourself time after your injectable appointment to heal from any potential bruising or swelling. If you have an event or meeting where you don’t want anyone to know you’ve had anything enhanced, make your appointment 1-2 weeks before the event. If you are having injectable treatments prior to your wedding, schedule your treatments well in advance. This will give you time to do any touch ups you may require and will allow time for any bruises to fade before all the pre-wedding events (pictures, bachelorette party, etc).
Supplements
Take oral Arnica Montana or bromelain supplements, both of which minimize swelling and bruising. You can start taking them a few days before your appointment.
Post-treatment tips
The first 24 hours
Gently apply an ice pack intermittently to areas where filler has been injected.
24-48 hours post-injection
Avoid exercise or vigorous activity that increases blood flow.
Stay out of the heat and sun as heat can dilate blood vessels.
Continue with your Arnica or bromelain supplements as directed.
