You’ve done your research, booked your consultation, and are excited about your aesthetic treatment. Whether it’s Anti-Wrinkle Injections, Dermal Fillers, or a Skin Booster like Profhilo, the experience in the clinic is only part of the journey. To ensure you achieve the best possible results, minimise side effects, and enjoy a quick recovery, your preparation and aftercare are just as important as the treatment itself.
As your medical aesthetics provider, I am committed to guiding you through every stage. Use this guide to optimise your results.
Part 1: Your Essential Pre-Treatment Checklist
Proper preparation is primarily about minimising the risk of bruising and swelling. I recommend adhering to these points for at least 7 days before your appointment:
- Avoid Blood Thinners: Stop taking non-essential blood-thinning medications and supplements, as they increase the likelihood of bleeding and bruising. This includes Aspirin, Ibuprofen (Nurofen), and certain dietary supplements like high-dose Vitamin E, Fish Oils (Omega-3s), Gingko Biloba, and Garlic supplements. Always consult with your GP before stopping any prescription medication.
- Limit Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol for at least 24-48 hours before your treatment. Alcohol thins the blood, making you more prone to bruising.
- Arnica and Bromelain: Consider taking Arnica tablets or a Bromelain supplement a few days before and after your treatment. These natural remedies are widely believed to help reduce bruising and swelling.
- Eat and Hydrate: Please ensure you have eaten and are well-hydrated before you arrive. This helps keep your blood sugar stable and minimises the risk of feeling faint during the procedure.
- Clean Skin: Arrive at the clinic with a clean face, free of make-up. We will cleanse the area again, but a clean slate is always helpful.
Part 2: The Golden Rules of Post-Treatment Care
The first 24 to 48 hours are crucial for ensuring the product settles correctly and for preventing infection or displacement.
Immediate Aftercare (First 24 Hours):
- No Touching or Massaging: Resist the urge to touch, rub, or massage the treated area unless specifically instructed by Dr. Noreen. This is vital to ensure the product remains exactly where it was placed.
- Avoid Make-Up: Do not apply make-up for at least 6 hours, or ideally 24 hours, to keep the injection sites clean and minimise the risk of infection.
- Say No to Strenuous Exercise: Avoid activities that significantly increase your heart rate or body temperature, such as intense cardio or weight training, for 24 hours. Increased blood flow can exacerbate bruising and swelling.
- Skip the Heat: Avoid excessive heat exposure, including saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, or sunbeds, for 48 hours.
Longer-Term Aftercare (Beyond 48 Hours):
- Be Patient: While the initial results of dermal fillers are visible immediately, residual swelling and possible bruising mean the final, settled results may not be visible for up to two weeks. For Anti-Wrinkle Injections, the effect typically takes 10–14 days to fully develop.
- Sun Protection: Always apply a broad-spectrum SPF to protect your skin, which is especially important after any aesthetic procedure.
- Follow-Up: If you have been treated with Anti-Wrinkle Injections, we will typically schedule a review appointment at two weeks to ensure you are happy with the results.
