AFTER GETTING
INJECTABLE FILLERS

Taking the step to get injectable fillers is certainly exciting, but it’s only one element of achieving your goals to preserve a youthful, refreshed appearance. Because dermal fillers are temporary, you’ll need to maintain your results with routine touch-ups and may wish to consider some additional rejuvenating treatments.

Request a consultation to meet with Dr. Joseph J. Castellano and learn more about what to expect before and after getting injectable dermal fillers. A Tampa Bay native, Dr. Castellano is recognized as one of the best cosmetic surgeons and facial rejuvenation specialists in the Tampa-St. Petersburg area.

During your initial consultation, Dr. Castellano or one of his trained aestheticians will describe the details of what you can expect after your dermal filler appointment. Because injectable fillers do not require surgery, there is no significant recovery period. However, there are a few side effects you should keep in mind when planning your treatment.

Immediately following your appointment, you may experience one or more of the following:

• Pinkness

  Depending on your skin sensitivity and the exact areas treated, you may develop slight temporary pinkness surrounding the injection sites.

• Tenderness

  While there is typically little to no discomfort involved in getting dermal fillers, you may experience some tenderness of the treated areas for the first few days.

• Bruising

  Some people develop minor temporary bruising around the injection sites. This can easily be disguised with makeup until the bruising fades. Taking arnica tablets 1 day prior to your appointment and for 5 days after can help prevent bruising.

Usually, there are no special post-treatment medications or creams for injectable fillers. However, you should avoid consuming alcohol for 24 hours after your appointment. You are also advised to refrain from vigorous aerobic activity for 24 hours following your treatment.

Because each person’s needs are unique, fillers may last longer for some people than for others. In general, however, you can plan on a basic timeline depending on the exact type of filler and the extent of rejuvenation.

• HA Fillers

  Hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restylane® and JUVÉDERM®, typically last from 4 to 6 months. However, some types, such as JUVÉDERM® Ultra Plus, are thicker and may last up to 9 months.

• RADIESSE®

  RADIESSE® can last from 9 to 15 months, making this filler a popular option. However, keep in mind that creating your ideal results may require two or three syringes of product. Choosing a smaller amount of product for economic reasons may actually cost more in the long run, as the results will not last as long.

• Sculptra®

  Sculptra® stimulates your own collagen, meaning the product itself isn’t what maintains your results. Rather, your own boosted collagen production can provide a long-lasting benefit. Many people experience results for up to 2 years following a series of Sculptra® injections. However, this depends on your own age, health and physical makeup. People in overall good health usually see longer-lasting results than those who smoke or have a poor diet.

• Collagen

  Collagen injections usually last from 4 to 6 months. This natural protein is usually harvested from cow, pig or human cadavers, and can be broken down by the body fairly quickly. However, most people are thrilled with their results and feel that they appear completely natural.

While some people choose injectable fillers as a touch-up treatment before a big event like a wedding or reunion, more commonly, men and women incorporate fillers as a regular treatment to maintain their appearance. You may wish to schedule bi-annual or annual appointments to preserve your youthful look. The best way to ensure an optimal outcome from your treatment is to plan your appointments well, including preparing for what to expect before dermal fillers and after your appointment is over.