Pre/Post Care

Pre Care Instructions

  • What to Avoid

    If approved by your primary care provider, avoid all blood thinners 48-72hrs before having your injection. This may include NSAIDs such as; Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Motrin, etc., Supplements such as; Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Garlic, Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Ginkgo Biloba, and Primrose oil.

    Alcohol is also consider a blood thinner and should be avoided 1 week pre/post treatment.

    Avoid any micro-blading at least 2 weeks pre treatment.

    Pre Care

    Arnica is optional pre/post treatment to minimize bruising, swelling, and redness.

    Remember

    If possible, come to your appointment with a clean face, free of make-up.

    Contraindications for Treatment

    We will not treat you with neurotoxins if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have an active infection. You must get clearance from your primary care physician if you have a bleeding/clotting or autoimmune/neurological disorder.

  • What to Avoid

    If approved by your primary care provider, avoid all blood thinners one 48-72hrs before having your injections. This may include Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Garlic, Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Ginkgo Biloba, and Primrose oil.

    Avoid alcohol 1-2 days prior to treatment tothe risk of bruising. or swelling.

    Avoid antibiotics for at least 2 weeks prior to your treatment.

    Avoid dental work 2 weeks pre/post treatment.

    Pre Care

    Oral Arnica is optional prior to treatment to help minimize bruising.

    Remember

    Plan procedures 2-3 weeks before any important events.

    If possible, come to your appointment with a clean face, free of make-up.

    Contraindications for Treatment

    We will not treat you with dermal fillers/injectables if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have a bleeding/clotting disorder, or plan on leaving town within 48 hours.

  • What to Avoid

    If approved by your prescribing provider, avoid all blood thinners one 48-72hrs before having your injections. This may include Ibuprofen, Aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Garlic, Ginseng, St. John’s Wort, Ginkgo Biloba, and Primrose oil.

    Avoid alcohol 1-2 days prior to treatment to minimize the risk of bruising and swelling.

    Plan procedure 2-3 weeks before important events.

    Oral Arnica is optional prior to treatment to help minimize bruising.

    If possible, come to your appointment with a clean face, free of make-up.

    Contraindications for Treatment

    We will not treat you with Sculptra if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a bleeding/clotting disorder.

  • Pre-Care (1-2 Weeks Before):

    • Avoid Sun Exposure: Minimize direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks. Sunburned skin cannot be treated.

    • Discontinue Irritating Topicals: Stop using retinoids (Retin-A, Retinol), AHAs, BHAs, Vitamin C (low pH formulas), exfoliants, and topical antibiotics for 5-7 days prior.

    • Medications: Consult your physician about discontinuing blood-thinning medications (e.g., Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, Naproxen) for at least 3-7 days prior, as these can increase bruising and interfere with the inflammatory response crucial for results. Avoid anti-inflammatory medications for at least 3 days prior.

    • Cold Sores: If you have a history of cold sores, inform your provider and take an antiviral medication as prescribed, starting 2 days before your treatment.

    • Other Treatments: Avoid IPL/Laser procedures for at least 2 weeks prior.

    • Hair Removal: Avoid waxing, depilatory creams, or electrolysis on the treatment area for 5-7 days prior. Shave the area the day before, not the day of, to avoid irritation.

  • Pre-Care (1-2 Weeks Before):

    • Hydration: Drink plenty of water (at least 64 oz/day) for 3-5 days leading up to your appointment to ensure easy blood draw and optimal plasma quality.

    • Avoid Blood Thinners: Consult your physician about discontinuing blood-thinning medications (e.g., Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Advil, Motrin, Aleve, Naproxen) and supplements (e.g., Vitamin E, Fish Oil, Omega 3/6, Ginkgo Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil) for at least 1 week prior to minimize bruising and bleeding.

    • Steroids: Discontinue oral corticosteroids (e.g., Prednisone) at least 2 weeks prior, as they can impede the effectiveness of PRP/PRF.

    • Alcohol & Caffeine: Avoid alcohol, excessive caffeine, and spicy foods for at least 3-5 days before treatment, as they may increase bruising and reduce treatment efficacy.

    • Smoking: Avoid smoking for at least 3-5 days prior, as it can impair healing.

    • Cold Sores: If you have a history of cold sores, inform your provider and consider starting an antiviral medication (e.g., Valtrex) as prescribed, on the day of or the day before treatment.

    • Meal: Eat a healthy meal before your appointment to maintain stable blood sugar.

  • Pre-Care (Ongoing):

    • Consultation: Ensure you have had a thorough consultation with your Ruma provider to determine if Semaglutide or Tirzepatide is appropriate for you.

    • Medical History: Provide a complete medical history, including all medications, supplements, and any existing health conditions.

    • Diet & Exercise Plan: Begin to incorporate a balanced diet and light physical activity as advised by your provider, as these medications work best when paired with lifestyle changes.

    • Hydration: Maintain good hydration daily.

    • Injection Site Rotation: If self-administering, familiarize yourself with proper injection techniques and plan to rotate injection sites (abdomen, thigh, back of upper arm) with each dose to prevent irritation.

Post Care Instructions

  • What to Avoid

    Avoid wearing a tight hat or headband for at least 4 hours post treatment. Additionally, refrain from massaging or applying pressure to the treated area during this time.

    Avoid strenuous exercise/activity for 24-48 hours post treatment.

    For 4 hours after your treatment, it’s important to avoid lying flat. This helps ensure that the Botox or Dysport remains in place and doesn’t migrate.

    Avoid makeup application for at least 24 hours after treatment.

    Avoid any micro-blading at least 2 weeks post treatment.

    Avoid blood thinning agents if approved by your primary care physician and alcohol for 48-72hrs. Alcohol can increase swelling and bruising, so skipping it will help speed up the recovery process.

    Remember

    Remember to always be patient with results which can take up to 2-3 weeks to appear. It’s important to give your body time to adjust. We will not administer any additional injections until after this period has passed.

    Follow-Up Appointment

    After 2 weeks, if you feel the need for any adjustments or a dosage increase, schedule a follow-up with your injector. This will give us time to assess the results and make any needed tweaks.

    Longevity and Movement

    Botox and Dysport typically last for 3-4 months, but it's normal to see some movement return gradually between 6-10 weeks as the treatment starts to wear off.

    Treatment Area Monitoring

    Call our office immediately if the treated areas become red or hot to the touch days after your treatment. This could indicate an issue that requires attention.

    Arnica for Bruising

    You may continue taking Arnica to help accelerate the healing of any bruising and reduce swelling.

  • What to Avoid

    Refrain from any strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after treatment. Intense physical activity can increase circulation and potentially cause swelling or bruising.

    Avoid applying makeup for at least 4 hours after your filler treatment, though waiting 24 hours is ideal.

    Avoid alcohol for 48-72hrs. Alcohol can increase swelling and bruising, slowing down the healing process.

    If approved by your primary care provider, avoid blood-thinning medications and alcohol for up to 48-72hrs after your treatment to help prevent bruising.

    Arnica for Bruising

    Continue taking Arnica after your treatment to help reduce bruising and speed up recovery. It can be especially helpful if bruising is present.

    No Dental Work for 2 Weeks

    Avoid any dental procedures for 2 weeks following your treatment. Dental work can increase the risk of bruising and disrupt the filler placement.

    No Massaging the Treated Area

    Do not massage or press on the treated area. Dermal fillers naturally settle and soften over time, so there’s no need for manual manipulation.

    Avoid IPL/BBL and Microneedling

    For 1-2 weeks post-treatment, avoid IPL/BBL or microneedling treatments to prevent unnecessary irritation to the treated areas.

    Monitoring for Issues

    If the treated area becomes red or hot to the touch several days after your treatment, or if you notice unusual bruising or any signs of poor blood flow, contact me immediately.

    Immediate Attention for Concerns

    If you experience patchy, red, or hot patches in the treated or surrounding areas, severe or increasing pain, or if the area becomes unusually red or hot to the touch, please me right away.

    Arnica for Bruising

    You may continue taking Arnica to help accelerate the healing of any bruising and reduce swelling.

  • What to Avoid

    Avoid strenuous activity, sauna use, hot tubs, or other high heat activity for 48 hours after treatment.

    Avoid applying makeup for at least 24 hours to minimize the risk of infection.

    If approved by your primary care provider, avoid blood-thinning medications and alcohol for up to 48-72hrs after your treatment to help prevent bruising.

    Bruising, swelling, and other side effects are usually mild and often subside within a few days.

    Massage Rule

    The 5-5-5 Rule: massage the treated areas 5 minutes at a time, 5 times a day, for 5 days.

    Results

    Results from Sculptra are typically best seen between 60-90 days after final vial from initial treatment plan. Very normal to have "lackluster" effects during the early stages of your Sculptra treatment plan.

    Monitoring for Issues

    If the treated area becomes red or hot to the touch several days after your treatment, or if you notice unusual bruising or any signs of poor blood flow, contact me immediately.

    Immediate Attention for Concerns

    If you experience patchy, red, or hot patches in the treated or surrounding areas, severe or increasing pain, or if the area becomes unusually red or hot to the touch, please me right away.

    Arnica for Bruising

    You may continue taking Arnica to help accelerate the healing of any bruising and reduce swelling.

  • Post-Care (Immediate to 1 Week After):

    • Gentle Cleansing: For the first 24 hours, rinse the treated area with tepid water. After 24 hours, use only a gentle cleanser for the next 3 days, patting dry with clean hands.

    • Moisturize: Apply only the recommended post-treatment balm or moisturizer frequently (every 2-3 hours) for the first few days.

    • Avoid Active Ingredients: Do NOT use any Alpha Hydroxy Acids, Beta Hydroxy Acids, Retinoids (Vitamin A), or anything perceived as "active" skincare for at least 3-7 days.

    • Sun Protection: Avoid direct sun exposure and tanning beds for at least 2 weeks. After 24 hours, apply a broad-spectrum mineral-based sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily and reapply every 60-90 minutes when outdoors.

    • Makeup: Avoid makeup for at least 24 hours after treatment. If applying makeup after 24 hours, use mineral makeup and ensure brushes are clean.

    • Exercise & Heat: Avoid strenuous exercise, excessive sweating, jacuzzis, saunas, and steam baths for at least 24-48 hours (or longer if skin is still irritated).

    • Picking/Peeling: Do NOT pick, scratch, or scrub at any flaking or peeling skin. Allow it to shed naturally.

    • Hydration & Nutrition: Stay well-hydrated and focus on nutrient-rich foods to support skin healing.

    • Pain Relief: If needed, Tylenol is acceptable for discomfort. Avoid NSAIDs (Motrin, Ibuprofen) for at least 2 weeks post-treatment as they can interfere with the beneficial inflammatory process.

  • Post-Care (Immediate to 1 Week After):

    • No Touching/Rubbing: Do NOT touch, press, rub, or manipulate the treated area(s) for at least 8 hours after your treatment.

    • Avoid Active Ingredients & Makeup: Do not apply any lotions, creams, or makeup to the treated area for at least 6-8 hours.

    • Avoid Anti-Inflammatories: Continue to AVOID NSAIDs (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aleve, etc.) for at least 1-2 weeks after your procedure, as these can interfere with the essential inflammatory response that PRP/PRF relies on for regeneration.

    • Pain Relief: If you experience discomfort, Tylenol (Acetaminophen) is acceptable.

    • Ice/Heat: Avoid applying ice or heat directly to the injection site for the first 24-72 hours, as this can limit the necessary inflammatory process.

    • Exercise & Heat: Avoid vigorous exercise, sun exposure, and excessive heat (saunas, hot baths, steam rooms) for at least 24-48 hours.

    • Alcohol & Smoking: Continue to avoid alcohol and smoking for at least 3-5 days (ideally longer) post-procedure, as they can hinder the healing process and reduce effectiveness.

    • Hydration & Diet: Maintain a healthy diet and continue to drink plenty of water (at least 64 oz/day) to support healing.

    • Expected Side Effects: It is normal to experience some bruising, redness, mild swelling, itching, and soreness at the injection sites. These typically resolve within a few days to a week.

    • Sleeping: Consider sleeping with your head elevated (for facial treatments) to minimize swelling.

  • Post-Care (Ongoing):

    • Monitor Side Effects: Pay close attention to any potential side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, or injection site reactions. These are common, especially when starting or increasing doses.

    • Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you experience digestive side effects like nausea or constipation, as this can help mitigate them.

    • Balanced Diet: Continue to focus on a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Due to reduced appetite, it's vital to ensure you're getting adequate nutrition from a variety of food sources.

    • Light Physical Activity: Maintain regular, light to moderate physical activity. This complements the medication's effects and supports overall health. Do not push through pain.

    • Stress Management: Practice stress-reducing techniques (e.g., deep breathing, mindfulness, adequate sleep), as stress can impact weight management.

    • Follow Dosing Schedule: Adhere strictly to your prescribed dosage and weekly injection schedule. If a dose is missed, follow your provider's specific instructions on when to take it or if to skip it. Do not double dose.

    • Injection Site Care: Keep the injection site clean and dry. Minor redness or swelling is normal; avoid rubbing or scratching the area.

    • Regular Check-ins: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your Ruma provider. These are crucial for monitoring your progress, managing any side effects, and adjusting your treatment plan as needed.

    • Report Concerns: Contact your provider immediately if you experience severe or persistent side effects, or any concerning symptoms (e.g., severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting/diarrhea, vision changes, signs of an allergic reaction).

Book an Appointment

 

Get in Touch