Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Filler Aftercare Instructions

Congratulations on your recent treatment! Below are detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal results and minimize potential side effects following dermal filler injections.

Immediate Aftercare (First 24 Hours):

1. Initial Reactions: Swelling, bruising, red needle marks, asymmetry, tenderness, or itching in the treated area are common. These should resolve in a few days to weeks.
2. Post-Treatment Care: Your face will be cleaned immediately after injections. Avoid touching your face for 6 hours, after which you may gently cleanse with water and a mild cleanser.
3. Makeup: If necessary, makeup can be applied after 6 hours. Brands like Oxygenetix are designed for post-treatment use, but it’s ideal to avoid makeup on the day of the procedure.

Things to Avoid:

• Heat Exposure: Avoid intense heat (e.g., solarium, sauna).
• Pressure: Avoid sleeping on the treated areas for the first few nights.
• Exercise: Skip strenuous exercise for 48 hours.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol for 24 hours.
• Skincare Products: Avoid AHA, Retinols/Vitamin C, or oil-based makeup for 24 hours.
• Other Facial Treatments: Avoid facials, waxing, peels, IPL, or microdermabrasion for two weeks.

Pain and Swelling Relief:

• Pain: Mild to moderate pain is normal. Paracetamol can be taken as directed.
• Swelling: Use a cool compress for 10 minutes every hour on the day of treatment. Arnica may help with bruising.

Bruising Relief:

• Increased Risk: Aspirin or fish oil use may increase bruising. Bromelaine or Arnica gel may help.
• Other Options: Vascular laser and Bromelaine can be used for bruising.

Massage:

• Follow your doctor’s advice regarding massage of the treated areas. Generally, avoid massaging unless specifically instructed.

Cold Sores:

• Treatments can trigger cold sores in those with a history. Preventative antivirals can be taken. Discuss with your doctor before treatment.

Aesthetic Review:

• Review the results at 4 weeks, except for emergencies like infection or vascular occlusions. Do not assess symmetry before 4 weeks.

Retreatment:

• Retreatment is typically between 1-6 months after the first treatment. Maintenance injections may occur yearly.

Complications:

• Vascular Occlusion: Watch for pain, whitening of the skin, skin discoloration, or blistering. Contact your doctor immediately if these occur. Contact us immediately if you have symptoms like dusky skin that looks like a fishnet stocking. 
• Infection: If you notice increasing redness, swelling, pain, heat, nodules, or pus, see your doctor.

Specific Area Care:

• Lips: Upper lips may swell more and seem overfilled. This usually balances as swelling subsides.
• Temples: Headaches are common; use Panadol as needed. Veins in the temples may appear swollen for 1-2 days following treatment.
• Dark Circles: Under-eye area complications, including lumpiness. If related to swelling, it will resolve in the first two weeks. If it persists, you may need a correction with hyaluronidase.
• Jawline: Lumpiness may occur but usually resolves over weeks.
• Forehead: Lumpiness is common; multiple treatments may be needed.

Concerns: If you have concerns post-treatment, please contact our clinic. (03) 5241 6129. In emergencies, visit your local hospital’s emergency department.