Over time, the aging process takes its toll. As early as your late twenties, you can begin to notice wrinkles and lines that didn’t used to be there. In a society that is becoming increasingly focused on looks, this can damage your self esteem and make it difficult for you to succeed in your business and personal life. With so many products on the market, it can be difficult to decide what treatment option is best.
Many people have found the answer in dermal fillers. These mid to deep injections are designed to treat facial folds and wrinkles, and the time necessary to receive treatments is minimal. If you are considering utilizing fillers to restore your youthful appearance, it is important that you do your homework, and there are five possible side effects you should understand prior to treatment.
1. Reactions at Injection Site
Fillers are administered using needles, and it is common for swelling to develop following a treatment. While it normally doesn’t last for more than a few days, it can be uncomfortable. Ice packs applied to the area with firm pressure can help ease the discomfort and reduce swelling more quickly. Following treatment, you should avoid:
- Alcohol
- Anti-coagulant medications
- High energy workout sessions
- Excessive sunlight exposure
2. Nodule Formation
There are various types of fillers on the market, and, depending on the type you are given, there is a risk of the formation of nodules that can leave a bluish tint to the skin. Normally a result of an injection that is not deep enough, this side effect is most commonly reported when using hyaluronic acid fillers. While this condition can often be corrected with massage therapy, in some cases it is necessary for incision and draining of the product.
3. Allergic Reactions
In rare circumstances, bovine collagen has been known to cause allergic reactions when injected. As early as a week and a half following injection, you may begin to notice a slight fever, and this could indicate an allergic reaction. Dermal injections are given in a series, and it is highly recommended that clients wait for a period of three to four weeks in between treatments to determine if an allergy exists.
4. Blood Vessel Obstruction
Although it does not occur often, some clients have experienced blood vessel obstructions and skin necrosis as a result of the administration of fillers. If you are preparing to receive injections, speak with your doctor about the possibility of receiving lower volumes over a longer period of time as opposed to high volume fillers administered in a single session. This can help you determine if you are one of the few who will experience this potential side effect.
5. Infection
Following injections, it is also possible to develop infections at the injection site. If this occurs, the best course of action is to procure proper antibiotics. While rare, there are some indicators that you may be at risk including:
- ·Current intraoral, mucosal or dental infection
- ·Herpes
- ·History of the development of cold sores
A Little Homework Goes a Long Way
Fillers can provide a viable solution to the effects of aging. However, these side effects are possible. By doing a little homework, you will have a better idea of what lies ahead, and it will help you make the most out of your initial consultation so you can decide if this is the best solution for your unique situation.