Will I bruise

Date: September 26, 2017

One of the most common questions I’m asked during consultation is: Will I bruise?

As shown in the image below the extensive network of veins and arteries in the face along with individual variances between clients means no matter how skilled your injector, it is very difficult to avoid bruising when injecting the skin with anti wrinkle injections and dermal fillers. By observing surface anatomy prior to injecting we are able to avoid vessels that can be seen directly under the skin however this is not always possible. If the needle happens to nick one of these vessels during treatment, blood will leak into the surrounding tissue and cause bruising.

I always try extremely hard to avoid or reduce the amount of bruising that may occur post treatment; however will always give you worst-case scenario prior to any treatment.

Side effects of treatment may include swelling, redness and occasional bruising that can usually be covered with makeup. This will disappear within a couple of days although occasional severe bruising can last up to 10-14 days. For this reason I recommend treatment at least three weeks before a big event such as a wedding.

There are some precautionary measures that patients can take to minimise bruising, these include:

• Avoid taking blood thinning drugs and anti-inflammatories 7-10 days prior to injectables e.g. aspirin, ibuprofen – If taking prescription blood thinners; you will need approval from your prescribing doctor before ceasing medications.
• Avoid vitamins or supplements that may cause bruising of the skin e.g.- Omega 3 fatty acids i.e. fish oil, Ginkgo Biloba, Vitamin E, Garlic, St Johns Wort
• Avoid alcohol 1-2 days prior to injection
• Tell your injector if you have had bad bruising in the past so they can be cautious in that particular area.

Post treatment

• Pressure will be applied to any areas bleeding to reduce bruising
• Ice can be applied on and off for 5-10 minutes every hour or so 24-48 hours post treatment to reduce swelling and bruising
• Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours post treatment
• Avoid alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours
• Massage hirudoid cream to the affected area twice a day to accelerate the absorption of the bruise
• Panadol can be taken for any discomfort, avoid NSAIDs