Cheek Filler Bruising : Beat Bruising with These Tips!

Cheek Fillers

Cheek filler is a non-invasive cosmetic treatment that enhances the volume and definition of your cheeks by injecting safe substances known as dermal fillers around and above your cheekbones. There are various types of cheek fillers available, and your healthcare provider will recommend the most suitable one based on your desired outcome. The procedure typically takes less than 30 minutes, and results can last up to a year or longer depending on the filler used. However, like any cosmetic procedure, there are potential risks such as bleeding and bruising.

Cheek Filler Types

Various kinds of dermal fillers are capable of improving the look of your cheekbones. The effectiveness of cheek fillers depends on the specific type employed by your provider.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a commonly used filler due to its natural presence in the skin. As we age, HA levels decrease, leading to wrinkles and volume loss. Providers use HA injections to restore volume and hydration to the skin, with results typically lasting around one year.
Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) is a naturally found substance in bones, utilized by providers to enhance cheekbone fullness and minimize deep lines and wrinkles through injections. Results from CaHA fillers typically endure for approximately 15 months.
Poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) is a synthetic compound that stimulates your body’s collagen production, commonly employed by providers to address deep wrinkles on the cheeks. Results from PLLA fillers typically endure for two years or longer.
Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) consists of small collagen beads utilized by providers to enhance cheek firmness and fullness. While results from PMMA injections can last for several years, multiple treatments may be necessary.

Causes of Cheek Filler Bruising

Bruising after cheek fillers is caused by the needle puncturing blood vessels during injection.
Expect some bruising and bleeding with any injectable treatment, including medical or cosmetic procedures.
Lips and tear troughs are particularly prone to bruising due to their high vascularity.
Filler-induced bruising is similar to bruises from other procedures like blood tests or immunizations and typically fades within 5-7 days.
Injections carry inherent risks of bruising or swelling due to the insertion of a needle into the skin.
Aestheticians may use a ‘cannula,’ a blunt-tipped needle, to minimize bruising by creating a single entry point on each side of the face, reducing the number of injection sites and containing bruising to specific areas.

Symptoms of Cheek Filler Bruising

Bruising frequently occurs as a typical outcome of injectable procedures and may differ in intensity depending on the individual. Common indications of cheek filler bruising resulting from filler treatments encompass:

Bruising typically causes skin discoloration, ranging from red, purple, blue, to black.
Swelling around the injection site is common and can worsen bruising’s appearance.
The injected area may feel tender or sensitive to touch, especially immediately after the procedure.
Some individuals may experience mild to moderate pain or discomfort at the injection site.
An itching or a tingling sensation may occur as the bruise begins to heal.
A palpable lump or bump may develop at the injection site, possibly due to filler material or localized swelling.
Cheek filler bruising gradually resolves over time as the body absorbs the trapped blood beneath the skin. The duration of bruising varies based on factors like individual healing capacity, procedural technique, and filler type.

Cheek Filler Bruising Treatments and Prevention

PREVENTION OF NSAID USE BEFORE YOUR PROCEDURE

Avoid NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) before cheek filler injections to reduce the risk of bruising.
NSAIDs diminish blood flow, impeding the body’s healing process following dermal filler treatments.
Examples of NSAIDs to avoid include Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Prednisone, and Naproxen.
Patients taking blood thinners like warfarin or heparin should inform their cosmetic provider and consult a physician before undergoing cheek filler treatment.

UTILIZATION OF COLD THERAPY

Cold therapy effectively manages post-treatment bruising after cheek filler injections.
It can be administered at home or immediately after the procedure.
Cold therapy reduces blood flow in the treated area, minimizing blood leakage and swelling.
It may help the injected filler settle.
Apply a cold compress for 5 to 10 minutes, twice daily, without applying pressure.
Use a barrier between the skin and compress to avoid filler displacement.
Seek specific guidance from the provider regarding cold therapy techniques.

CONSIDERATION OF CANNULA TREATMENT

Consider using a microcannula instead of a hypodermic needle for cheek filler injections.
Cannulas, being blunt needles, decrease the risk of blood vessel puncture during treatment.
The procedure involves creating a small incision and gently maneuvering the cannula to deposit filler.
Utilizing a blunt cannula can reduce treatment discomfort, shorten post-procedure recovery, and improve filler treatment precision.
Ensure the provider administering cheek filler with a cannula has the required training and certification.

How long will cheek filler bruising last after filler injection?

Ordinary cheek filler bruising typically persists for 5 to 7 days, with the most noticeable effects occurring within 72 hours post-treatment and gradually diminishing within a few days. In most instances, the cheek filler bruising naturally resolves within 1 to 2 weeks, although in rare cases, it may persist for up to 4 weeks.

HOW TO PREVENT BRUISING AFTER CHEEK FILLERS?

Different aestheticians offer varied suggestions to prevent or lessen cheek filler bruising after injections.
It’s important to heed the guidance of your own injector as their techniques and products are customized to their approach.
Refrain from using blood-thinning medications such as aspirin for approximately a week before injections, unless advised otherwise by a physician.
Applying Lasonil or Hirudoid creams to bruised areas can diminish bruise severity and hasten fading, but do so cautiously to avoid disturbing filler placement.
Aestheticians may provide cold dressings or ice packs after injections to constrict blood vessels, mitigating cheek filler bruising and reducing its severity.
Apply these gently for up to 8 hours following the injection for optimal effectiveness.

Cheek filler Aftercare

For optimal post-care following cheek dermal fillers, we recommend:

Refraining from wearing makeup immediately after cheek filler injections. Makeup application can resume the following day.
Avoiding strenuous exercise.
Steering clear of spa visits, saunas, or hot yoga classes for a week following cheek dermal filler treatment.
Abstaining from facial products containing lactic or glycolic acid for at least 24 hours.

In conclusion, by following these tips and treatments, you can navigate your cheek filler journey with confidence, minimizing bruising and maximizing your desired results.