At MI Skin Dermatology Center, we know that looking your best is important, and injectable treatments such as BOTOX Cosmetic® and dermal fillers help you achieve that. Still, bruising after injectable treatments is a common concern for many patients.
In this post, I’ll answer your most pressing questions about bruising after BOTOX and dermal fillers, including how to help prevent it and what to do if it occurs.
1. How Common Is Bruising After BOTOX and Dermal Fillers?
Bruising after BOTOX or dermal fillers is quite common. These treatments involve tiny injections that can occasionally break small blood vessels under the skin, leading to mild bruising. However, this is typically minor and temporary, usually resolving within a few days.
2. How Long Does BOTOX & Filler Bruising Last?
Bruising after BOTOX or another neuromodulator usually lasts between 3 and 7 days, but it is typically subtle and can be covered with makeup. You can learn how different neuromodulators compare in my related blog post.
Bruising after dermal fillers, especially in more delicate areas such as the lips, can last longer but generally follows a similar timeline.
3. Is Bruising After BOTOX Dangerous?
Bruising after BOTOX isn’t dangerous—it’s simply a side effect of the injection process and doesn’t affect the outcome of your treatment.
4. How Can I Prevent Bruising Before My BOTOX or Filler Treatment?
You can take several steps to minimize the chances of bruising after your injectable treatment:
- Avoid supplements or medications known as blood thinners: Blood-thinning medications and supplements include aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, omega-3 supplements or fish oil, and even vitamin E can increase the likelihood of bruising. Try to avoid them for at least 7 days before your treatment.
- Choose a skilled injector: At MI Skin Dermatology Center, we pride ourselves on precise, expert injections to reduce the risk of bruising. A careful injection technique makes a significant difference.
- Don’t drink alcoholic beverages: Alcohol thins your blood, increasing your risk for bruising. For at least 24 hours before your injection appointment, don’t drink alcohol.
- DO take arnica and bromelain supplements: Start at least 3 days prior to your treatment.
By preparing in advance, you’ll be ready to enjoy your refreshed look without unnecessary concerns.
5. How Can I Reduce Bruising After Dermal Fillers & BOTOX?
If bruising does occur, you can do a few things to help it fade faster:
- Apply ice: Gently apply ice to the treated area for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and minimize bruising.
- Arnica: Using arnica gel or supplements may help speed healing. Arnica is a natural remedy known to reduce bruising. (You can also use arnica before treatment to get a head start.)
- Avoid strenuous activity: For the first 24 hours post-treatment, avoid strenuous exercise, which can increase blood flow to the treated areas and worsen bruising.
By following these aftercare tips, you can help your bruising fade more quickly and enjoy your results sooner.
6. Is Swelling and Bruising After Lip Fillers Normal?
Yes, it’s very normal to experience bruising and swelling after lip fillers. The lips are a delicate area, so it’s common for patients to experience some bruising after injections. Swelling may last a few days to a couple of weeks, and bruising can last around the same time. Don’t worry—this is part of the healing process, and the final results will be worth the wait.
Remember – Dr. Isaac, Dr. Yanes, and the MI Skin Team can also offer complementary laser treatments to speed up the resolution of any significant bruise.
Ready To Take the Next Step?
With the right preparation and aftercare, you can minimize bruising from injectables. If you’re ready to enhance your look with BOTOX or dermal fillers, take the next step and request a consultation using the online form or by calling us at (202) 393-7546.
Are BOTOX injections or dermal fillers better for your needs? Find out by taking our quiz.
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