Considering dermal filler? Below are answers to some of the most common questions about treatment, results, recovery, and what to expect at Rammos Plastic Surgery & MedSpa.
Does Dermal Filler Hurt?
Most patients tolerate filler treatments very well. Depending on the area being treated, topical numbing or local anesthetic may be used to help keep you comfortable.
Many hyaluronic acid fillers also contain lidocaine for additional comfort during treatment. You may feel pressure, pinching, or tenderness during the injections.
How Long Does a Filler Appointment Take?
Treatment time varies depending on the area or number of areas being treated. Most filler appointments take approximately 30–60 minutes, including assessment and treatment.
If it is your first appointment, additional time may be spent discussing your goals and developing your treatment plan.
When Will I See My Results?
You’ll usually notice a difference immediately after filler is placed, but what you see right after your appointment isn’t necessarily your final result.
Swelling, tenderness, and occasionally bruising can temporarily affect the appearance of the treated area. As these resolve and the filler settles, your result will continue to refine.
Depending on the area treated and product used, we generally recommend allowing approximately 2 weeks to evaluate your result.
How Long Does Dermal Filler Last?
The longevity of filler varies depending on the product used, area treated, amount placed, and individual patient factors.
Some fillers may last several months, while others can last a year or longer. Areas with more movement, such as the lips, may metabolize filler differently than areas where the product provides more structural support.
Your injector can give you a more specific expectation based on the filler and area being treated.
How Much Swelling or Bruising Should I Expect?
Some degree of swelling, tenderness, redness, or bruising is normal after filler injections.
Swelling can vary considerably depending on the treatment area and the individual. The lips, in particular, may experience more noticeable swelling during the first few days.
If you have an important event coming up, we recommend scheduling your filler appointment with enough time for swelling or bruising to resolve.
What Should I Do After Dermal Filler?
Your injector will provide specific instructions based on your treatment, but general aftercare may include:
- Avoid rubbing, massaging, or applying significant pressure to the treated area unless instructed otherwise.
- Avoid excessive heat, such as saunas or hot tubs, immediately after treatment.
- Avoid alcohol immediately following treatment if advised by your injector.
- Keep the area clean and follow your normal gentle skincare routine.
- Follow any additional instructions provided by your injector.
If your injector recommends massage for a particular product or treatment area, follow those specific instructions.
When Can I Exercise After Filler?
We generally recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for approximately 24 hours after filler treatment, as increased blood flow and heat may contribute to swelling or bruising.
Light, normal daily activity is generally fine unless your injector advises otherwise.
Can I Wear Makeup After Filler?
Your injector will give you instructions based on the area treated. In general, it’s best to avoid applying makeup directly over injection sites immediately following treatment.
When you do resume makeup, apply it gently and avoid significant pressure or rubbing over the treated areas.
How Should I Prepare for My Filler Appointment?
Let us know about any medications, supplements, allergies, medical conditions, previous filler treatments, or history of cold sores before treatment.
Certain medications and supplements may increase the likelihood of bruising. Your injector can review these with you before your appointment.
Do not stop a prescribed medication unless instructed to do so by the healthcare professional who prescribed it.
If you have a history of cold sores and are having treatment around the lips or mouth, be sure to tell us before your appointment.
Can Dermal Filler Be Dissolved?
Many commonly used hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase when medically appropriate.
However, not every injectable filler is dissolvable. Your injector can explain the type of product being used and what options are available if adjustment or reversal is ever necessary.
What Are the Risks of Dermal Filler?
Temporary swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness, and firmness around the injection sites are among the more common effects after treatment.
Less common complications can also occur. One of the most important, although rare, risks is unintentional injection of filler into a blood vessel, which can cause serious complications and requires immediate treatment.
This is one reason why choosing an injector with a strong understanding of facial anatomy and the ability to recognize and manage complications is so important.
Your injector will review the risks and benefits with you before treatment and explain when you should contact the office after your procedure.
What Is the Difference Between BOTOX® and Dermal Filler?
BOTOX and dermal fillers are both injectable treatments, but they work in very different ways.
BOTOX temporarily reduces muscle activity that contributes to expression lines, such as forehead lines, frown lines, and crow’s feet.
Dermal filler adds volume or structural support and can be used to enhance facial contours, restore lost volume, or soften certain folds and hollows.
Many patients benefit from one or the other, while some treatment plans incorporate both.
