Let's talk about fillers! Fillers are a grand invention... when used appropriately. We've all seen the huge "duck" lips, the over-pronounced jawline, the monster cheek bones. These filler trends come and go. Fortunately, the newest "trend" is trying to look balanced and natural. I don't think this is a real "trend." In my opinion, balancing the face and creating a more natural anti-aging look is here to stay. I'll talk about facial balancing more in a different post. Here's some answers to questions to help you decide if fillers are right for you:
What are dermal fillers?
Fillers are a term used when we're talking about a gel we inject under the skin to provide volume, support, balance, or to subtly change the shape of facial features.
What areas of the face are fillers used for?
Most common indications for filler placement:
Volume loss in lips and cheeks
Facial balancing--chin and jawline
Tear troughs
Nasolabial folds
Marionette lines
What is filler made from?
Gel dermal fillers are typically hyaluronic acid particles that are injected under the skin. Hyaluronic acid fillers can be reversed if you have leftovers from last time, if the gel migrates to an area you don't want, or in case of emergency.
What is Hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance already found in our body. It lubricates and hydrates our skin, bony joints, and eyeballs. It pulls water out of your body and holds onto it. Hydration status is important! Ask me about adding on IV Hydration therapy while you are having your filler placed.
Aren't there other types of fillers?
Yes! There is a different type of bio-stimulating filler that we won't talk about here. Be on the lookout for a blog post about these. Ask me if you are interested in Sculptra, Radiesse, or PRF.
Restylane? Juvederm? Revanesse? Which filler is best for me?
There are SO many different brand names and products--it can be confusing! Each product has a different density and length of time before dispersing in your body. Thats my job to decide which filler will be best for different areas of your face and your goals. If you've had success with a product in the past, let me know! If you have filler leftover from last time that is not serving you, I will ask to dissolve this first and then replace filler 2 weeks later.
Will the procedure hurt?
Most of the fillers are mixed with lidocaine so you become more numb during your procedure. However, I will also numb you first with either topical or local anesthetic depending on the area of your face and preference/pain tolerance. I ask that you be open with me about your previous experiences with pain and how I can help to make your time in my chair as comfortable and anxiety free as possible! My room is a safe space.
What should I expect before and after my filler placement?
BEFORE PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS:
Bruising/swelling are the most common side effects. I will offer you Arnica tablets/gel to reduce the length of time related to these side effects
Choose a date that is at least 2 weeks prior to any important event just incase your bruising/swelling persists that long
For 24 hours prior, AVOID things that thin your blood and make you bleed: NSAIDS, aspirin (unless medically necessary--ALWAYS ask your doctor first before stopping medications), ALCOHOL (put the wine glass down, girl!), garlic, ginkgo biloba, ginger, turmeric, dong quai, vitamin E, St. John's wort, Omega-3, niacin
IF you are prone to cold sore outbreaks, please notify me and begin pre-medicating with your antivirals the day before
STOP use of topical retinol or Retin-A products 2 days prior to procedure.
Make sure you have viewed and/or signed consent forms prior to procedure.
POLICIES FOR PROCEDURE DAY:
Arrive 15-20 minutes prior to appointment to complete consent forms if you have not already signed them on your portal
If you are bringing your (well-behaved) kiddos, please bring distractions/entertainment/snacks for 1 hour
Please no animals unless they are registered service animals
Please DO bring support person, if needed
Unfortunately, no call/no shows will result in zero refund of your booking fee
Appointment time is 1 hour but the procedure itself takes 15-20 minutes
AFTER PROCEDURE INSTRUCTIONS:
Don't touch your face for the next 24 hours!!
Avoid dirty makeup brushes for 48 hours (clean your makeup brushes, girl. I'm guilty too)
Try to sleep on your back the night of procedure
Avoid kissing, sucking movements for 24 hours
Try to avoid tight devices around your face for the next week (i.e goggles, N95, CPAP machine)
All of the above actions can displace the filler and make it migrate to areas we don't want it in
One side may heal faster than the other side. It might look funky but text me a picture if you're concerned.
Apply ice for the first hour after treatment for ten minutes on and ten minutes off
You must wait 2 weeks before any enhancements or other types of skin treatments
Please report any redness, blisters, or itching immediately if it occurs after treatment
What should I look for during the healing process?
You will have bruising and swelling and the swelling might heal asymmetrically. IF you have worsening pain, change in your capillary refill, white discoloration, dark purple or black discoloration PLEASE notify me as soon as possible. I will ask you to send me a picture and I might ask to see you in person.
It will take about 2 weeks to get to your new, beautiful normal after swelling subsides.
PLEASE feel free to take a selfie and text it to me during your healing process so we can decide if you need follow up. Even better, send me your beautiful face if you are happy with your outcome!! I love seeing your results. (719) 445-9878
What is capillary refill and how do I check for it?
Capillary refill is the amount of time it takes for your blood to return to an area after compressing it. It is a sign used to evaluate how well your vessels are supplying blood to a specific area. I will ask you to use 2 fingers to press down--1 finger on the discolored area and 1 finger on an area with normal color. Pressing down causes blanching (white discoloration) and we want your skin color to return in about 3 seconds. If it takes longer than 3 seconds to return, please notify my and I will ask for a photo and probably to see you in person.
Can I have MORE filler?
I get it, filler can be addicting. I will be honest with you about how much your face can handle. A marshmallow face will not make you look your best and remember migrated filler can have potential complications. We will create the best INDIVIDUALIZED plan for your face.
Where are you located?
Come see me for filler in downtown Colorado Springs! Find me at:
Honey Salon and Spa
515 S Tejon St.
Call, Text, or Email me with any questions you may have.
Much love and take care!
Amanda, Nurse Practitioner Injector
Owner, The Self-Care Shop
(719) 445-9878
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