Cheek filler guide - restore volume
So you are doing it! Congratulations. This is a guide for first time cheek filler treatment, what to expect, and how to keep them looking good!
First and foremost, everyone is different, different aesthetic goals, different metabolism, different genetics, different risk factors, etc. Do NOT compare yourself to someone else, everyone is different.
How long does it take?
- 10 minutes of topical numbing
- 15 minutes of procedure
Is it painful?
- Most clients have minimal pain, on a scale of 1-10, they are a 2-3.
How swollen will I be?
- Again, everyone is different, but most people do not swell much from this procedure. Just because you didn't swell one time, does not mean you will not swell the next time you do a treatment. Sometimes an "anti-swelling medication" will be given after your injection. We can address this at the time of the visit. Major swelling typically lasts less than 4 days, while minor residual swelling can last 14-21 days.
What about bruises?
- Some people are pre-disposed to bruise, avoiding vitamins, alcohol, and ibuprofen type products can decrease the chances of a bruise. Bruising comes in three sizes: Small (like the tip of a needle), medium (like the back of pencil or two pencils), and large (gumball sized). Depending on the type of bruise they can last 2-3 days or up to 2 weeks respectively. Arnika pills ($25) can be purchased during your visit that can help heal bruises. From time to time a laser can be used to speed up the process if warranted. Bruising is usually minor with this procedure.
How long does it last?
- Typically cheek injections last 12 - 18 months depending on multiple factors including product used.
I don't know what product to use.
- I typically recommend the juvederm voluma for this procedure.
I've heard about people having bumps...
- Unfortunately bumps do happen! If a doctor tells you that bumps never happen, be cautious, they do happen but it is not VERY common. Most bumps are small resolving bruises or some of the product. Usually you can massage them out after 2 weeks time, otherwise small droplet injections of a dissolver can be used in rare-instances to help get rid of these bumps.
When can I go back to normal activities?
- After about 24hrs you can resume normal activities
Can I fly after the procedure?
- Yes, but keep in mind that flying makes you dehydrated so try to avoid salty foods and drink tons of water.
When Can I work out?
- You can return to normal activities the next morning.
What can I do to keep them looking great?
- I recommend a topical vitamin C based cream from skinceuticals for adequate hydration ($110), drink 8 glasses of water a day, and consider a micro-needle home device to help stimulate more collagen ($80).