Whether you are running in for a quick Botox® or filler treatment at lunch or have scheduled a more involved cosmetic procedure, there is always a risk of bruising and swelling afterward. Some people bruise more than others, so it’s essential to prepare accordingly.

You may need to have that important zoom meeting later that day, so here are some tips to minimize bruising from our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Malena Amato!

Before Treatment

Medications and Supplements to Avoid

As Dr. Amato will emphasize in your consultation, avoid certain blood-thinning medications and supplements before your procedure, since these can actually increase your chances of bruising:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, like Advil® and Motrin® (ibuprofen) and Bayer® (aspirin)—check with your doctor, but plan to stop taking these five days before surgery.
• Supplements like flaxseed, fish oil, Vitamin E, and Omega-3—stop taking these two weeks prior to surgery.

If you take any of these, let Dr. Amato know in advance. She can make recommendations on what you should avoid taking in the days leading up to your procedure to minimize bruising.

Supplements to Take

Vitamin C: Two weeks before surgery, start taking 500 mg of Vitamin C once or twice a day. Vitamin C promotes healing and is a free-radical scavenger. Look for Vitamin C that is time-release and not mixed with other compounds.

Arnica Montana: This supplement is usually available in health food stores. Starting the night before your surgery, take two 30c tablets. Continue taking this same dose three times a day for the first three days following surgery. Place the tablets under your tongue about 15—30 minutes before eating.

Bromelain: This pineapple enzyme, which decreases bruising, is available in many health food stores. Take 500 mg (or 100 GDU) of Bromelain two times on the day before your procedure and continue for five more days after surgery.

After Treatment

Ice therapy: The first step you can take after your treatment is to keep your head elevated higher than your heart and immediately apply ice at regular intervals. Continue this treatment for the first hour after your procedure and then a few times a day for the first 24—48 hours after your appointment.

Head of the bed elevation: Elevate your sleeping position with two pillows for the first two nights after your procedure.

I-Lid Lift goggles: These compression goggles have been shown to significantly reduce the duration and severity of bruising after eyelid surgery.

Warm compresses: On the third day after your surgery, apply warm compresses for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. This could be a washcloth bathed in warm water or a heating pad. Take care not to make the site too warm, and alternate cold and warm compresses.

Avoid vigorous exercise: Avoid any strenuous activity, especially bending or heavy lifting, for two days after your procedure. Dr. Amato will let you know when it is safe to resume these motions.

Learn More!

Plan to look years younger by calling Dr. Malena Amato at her Austin, TX, practice at 512-501-1010, or schedule an appointment today!