A Beginner’s Guide to Injectable Treatments

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Anti-wrinkle injections and dermal fillers are the two most popular non-invasive cosmetic treatments in Australia (and the world) right now. Last year in the USA, 7 million anti-wrinkle injections and 2.5 million filler injections where performed. But there’s a few things your should know before you take the plunge.

1. Expectations
It is important to have realistic expectations of what can be achieve. Bringing a photo of your favourite celebrity to your appointment isn’t particularly helpful. Although you may love Angelina’s jawline, or Kylie’s lips, this may not be achievable for you. Instead, bring a photo of yourself where you love the way you look. A photo of yourself in your early 20’s, where your face is fullest may give a realistic reference point on how to enhance your natural features and restore youthfulness. Also, listen to the recommendations of your injector. People see you in a completely different way to how you see yourself and they may suggest something that you may not have thought of.

2. Who’s performing your treatment?
The success of a cosmetic treatment mostly depends on the person performing the treatment. If you know someone who looks amazing, ask them where they got their treatment. If you are unsure of the injectors credentials, ask them; ask where they got their training, how long they have been injecting and to see some before and after photos to make sure their aesthetic aligns with yours.

3. Price
The price of cosmetic injectables varies widely depending on the exact product used and even where you live. In your consultation discuss your budget to make sure it is in line with what your injector suggests. Groupon deals advertising anti wrinkle injections and lip fillers for $50 should be a red flag.

4. Before and after care
Anti-wrinkle injections are quite literally a walk-in, walk-out treatment. There’s nothing you need to do beforehand. Afterwards you need to avoid vigorous exercise and laying down for 4 hours.

Fillers are a bit more involved. Fillers can cause swelling and bruising that can last up to a week, so definitely don’t plan to have any filler treatment right before an important event. Also, if possible, you should stop taking fish oil, aspirin and other medication that may increase the likelihood of bruising leading up to and after your appointment.

5. How long will the results last?
The longevity of a treatment depends on a few factors; the product injected, how much was injected and where it was injected. As a general rule, anti wrinkle injections last about 3-4 months and dermal fillers last 6-18 months.

Author: Felicity West, Cosmetic Nurse

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