Before injecting fillers, the team at Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas will consult with the patient to discuss their concerns and goals regarding their appearance. They will answer any questions the patient may have about injectables, risks, and recovery.
HA fillers can be injected in the office, and the procedure takes less than an hour. Before the injections are given, the provider can administer a topical anesthetic to minimize discomfort or use an injectable local anesthesia (commonly referred to as a block) that will cause large areas of the face to go numb. Additionally, fillers often are mixed with a local anesthetic to lessen the discomfort of multiple injections.
A thin tube called a cannula can be used to inject the filler, which often helps minimize bruising and discomfort.
After the injections are complete, it is common to have some mild bruising that will improve naturally in one to two weeks. Swelling should go down after three to five days. An ice pack can help reduce bruising and swelling. While discontinuing blood thinners can minimize bruising, a patient should get clearance from their primary care physician before stopping any medications.
After getting fillers, patients can resume most activities right away with minimal downtime. It is best to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours, as it can exacerbate bruising. Most patients see results right away. Depending on the injection site, the effects of fillers can last for months or even years.