Dermal fillers typically contain lidocaine, an anesthetic that may help minimize discomfort during the procedure. At Reserve Medicine, injections are performed carefully and conservatively, with patient comfort prioritized throughout the appointment. To reduce any potential discomfort, a topical numbing agent is applied before the procedure. Individual experiences with pain or discomfort can vary.

Dermal fillers usually require minimal downtime, but this can vary from person to person. Common side effects include redness, bruising, swelling, tenderness, or itching around the injection sites, which typically resolve within a few days. To allow time for healing, it’s advisable to avoid scheduling important events for a few days post-treatment.

Results from dermal filler treatments are generally visible immediately and may continue to improve over 2-3 weeks as the filler integrates with your skin. Depending on the type of filler used and the area treated, results can last a minimum of 12 months and often much longer. Individual results will vary, and follow-up treatments may be needed to maintain desired outcomes.

Reserve Medicine has ultrasound technology that may be used when clinically appropriate to visualize blood vessels, tissue structures, previously placed filler, suspected nodules, or areas of concern. Ultrasound may also assist with targeted assessment or treatment planning. However, ultrasound does not eliminate all risks associated with dermal filler injections and is not a substitute for careful anatomical assessment, appropriate injection technique, and prompt recognition of complications.

Common side effects of dermal fillers include redness, swelling, bruising, and tenderness at the injection sites. These symptoms are usually mild and tend to subside within a few days. In rare cases, more serious side effects like infection, filler migration, or vascular complications may occur. It is important to consult with your practitioner for a thorough understanding of all potential risks and to determine if dermal fillers are suitable for you.

Contact Reserve Medicine immediately if you experience:

• Severe or increasing pain

• Blanching, dusky coloring, or unusual skin discoloration

• Cool, mottled, or increasingly tender skin

• Rapidly worsening swelling or asymmetry

• Blisters or skin breakdown

• Any visual disturbance

Before your appointment:

• Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin to facilitate a proper assessment.

• Avoid NSAIDs (e.g., Ibuprofen, Advil), fish oil, Gingko Biloba, St. John’s Wort, and high doses of Vitamin E for one week before treatment, as these can increase the risk of bruising. Discuss aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, anticoagulants, fish oil, vitamin E, and other medications or supplements with your provider.

• Avoid Retin-A, Tretinoin, and other retinoids for three days prior to the procedure.

• Refrain from drinking alcohol for 24 hours before the injection to minimize the risk of bruising.

• If you are prone to bruising, consider taking Arnica tablets one day before treatment, but consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.

• Tell us about previous filler treatments, including the product used, treatment area, approximate date, and any prior complications.

• Inform your provider about allergies, autoimmune conditions, bleeding disorders, pregnancy, breastfeeding, dental concerns, infections, or a history of cold sores. Reserve is happy to provide a prescription for anti-virlas if needed.

• Reschedule if you have an active rash, acne outbreak, cold sore, skin infection, dental infection, fever, or illness near the planned treatment area.

• Discuss any recent or upcoming dental work, vaccinations, facial procedures, surgery, or other injectable treatments.

• Clients who are pregnant or nursing are not eligible for dermal filler treatments.

• Avoid applying makeup immediately after treatment to reduce the risk of infection.

• Avoid lying down for at least four hours post-procedure to help prevent filler migration.

• Sleep on your back for 24-48 hours following the procedure to maintain filler placement.

• Avoid touching your face for 24 hours unless applying topicals as advised by your practitioner.

• Refrain from strenuous exercise for 24 hours; light walking is generally acceptable.

• Avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold for 24 hours, as this may affect the filler.

• No facials or massages on treated areas for two weeks post-treatment to avoid disturbing the filler.

• For lip injections only: avoid using straws, smoking, heavy kissing, or oral activities for two weeks to ensure optimal results.

Our practitioners offer a range of dermal fillers designed to meet various aesthetic needs. During your consultation, they will discuss the options available and help determine the most suitable treatment plan based on your goals and medical history. Whether you’re considering enhancing your lips, contouring your cheeks, defining your jawline, or smoothing nasolabial folds, our team will guide you toward the treatment that aligns with your desired outcomes.

For patients with previous filler, uncertain treatment history, asymmetry, nodules, migration concerns, or suspected residual product, Reserve Medicine may use ultrasound imaging to evaluate the location and distribution of existing filler before recommending additional injections or filler dissolution.