Pre and Post Instructions

Recommended Pre & Post Care for Dermal Filler

Before your treatment:

Avoid taking aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen, Advil®, Motrin®, Nuprin®,
Aleve®, Celebrex®, Fish oil, Gingko Biloba , St. John’s Wort and high doses of vitamin E for at least 7-10 days before
your appointment, unless medically necessary.
• You may take Tylenol® (if not contraindicated) one hour before your appointment to prevent any discomfort you
may experience. If you have concerns about discomfort.
• If you are taking prescription blood thinners such as Coumadin or Plavix, you should check with the prescribing
doctor to see if you are able to stop these medicines for 7-10 days before your appointment and at least 2 days
after the procedure has been done.
• If you have any history of Herpes Simplex (cold sores) on your face, make sure you inform the doctor that you
have made your appointment with, one week prior to your appointment; this will allow us adequate time to
prescribe a medication to prevent an outbreak.
• Avoid dental procedures (including cleaning) 2 weeks pre filler and 2 weeks post filler
• Come to your appointment with a clean face. **This means NO MAKEUP or MOISTURIZER**
• Eat a small meal or a snack before your appointment.
• Bruising and swelling will be worse for the first 24-48 hours after you receive your dermal filler injections. Refrain
from exercising for the remainder of the day following your injection(s). You may want to refrain from going to any
special events during this time.

• Avoid vaccines for 2 weeks before and after treatment (flu, covid, etc.)

After your treatment:

TIMING: It takes 2-3 weeks for full results of dermal fillers to become apparent. Please be patient. Not only are swelling and bruising common after treatment, but dermal filler takes time to rehydrate and attract water molecules to create a soft, natural result.

DURATION: Dermal fillers typically last anywhere between 6 months and 2 years. The duration of effect depends

on the type of dermal filler used, where on your face it was injected, how expressive your face is, and your metabolic rate. After repeated use of dermal fillers, many of our patients find that they have nice results that lasts even longer than expected.

POSITION: The night of your treatment, sleep with your head elevated on 2 pillows, lying on your back if possible. Do not rub or massage the treated areas after your treatment unless your injector has instructed you to do so.

EXERCISE: Do not perform strenuous exercise on the day of your treatment. You can resume all normal activities the next day. Avoid facials or saunas for 4 hours after your treatment. Feel free to shower and go about most other regular daily activities.

SWELLING/ BRUISING: Any tiny bumps or needle marks will go away within a few hours. Bruises or residual marks

are common and may be covered with makeup, but please wait for 2 hours and use a gentle touch to avoid rubbing the treated area. Please know that our Injectors take great care to ensure meticulous symmetry with microdroplet injection. Even still, it is common for temporary bruising and swelling to appear asymmetric in the initial period after injection. This is temporary and will go away on its own.

ICE: Use of ice or over the counter hydrocortisone 1% cream will reduce the risk of bruising and swelling. Icing is recommended immediately following treatment and for the first 2 days after treatment.

ALCOHOL/ BLOOD THINNERS: Drinking excessive alcohol within 2 days of treatment or using blood thinners such as Advil and Aspirin can increase your risk of bruising.

COLD SORES: If you have had cold sores or oral herpetic infection in the past, any treatment to your face can trigger reactivation. We recommend taking an antiviral medication such as Valacylovir in advance of your treatment and for several days afterward to reduce this risk.

Accidental injection into a blood vessel may block the vessel and cause damage to the surrounding tissues. If you notice the injected area turning dark blue/black (not like a bruise) or have intense pain in the injected area call the office immediately. This is a medical emergency.

Recommended Pre & Post Care for Neurotoxin

Before your treatment:

Avoid taking aspirin or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen, Advil®, Motrin®, Nuprin®, Aleve®, Celebrex®, Fish oil, Ginko Biloba, St. John’s Wort and high doses of vitamin E for 7-10 days prior to procedure, as these may cause increase risk of bleeding and bruising at the treated site(s). Regular multi-vitamin and Tylenol® is permitted (If not contraindicated).

• Avoid alcoholic beverages for 24 hours prior to procedure as this can increase the risk for bleeding and bruising at the treated site(s).

• Take Tylenol® (if not contraindicated) 1 hour prior to your appointment to help with any discomfort you may have, if you have concerns about discomfort.

• If you have any history of Herpes Simplex (cold sores) on your face, make sure you inform the doctor that you have made your appointment with, one week prior to your appointment; this will allow us adequate time to prescribe a medication to prevent an outbreak.

• Sunburn skin is difficult to treat so avoid exposure to the sun.

• Eat a small meal or a snack before your appointment.

• Always inform your doctor of all medications, including supplements you may be taking as well as your medical history.

• Avoid vaccines for 2 weeks before and after treatment (flu, covid, etc.)

PRECAUTIONS
You would not be considered a candidate for Botox® if you have any of the following:
• Myasthenia Gravis

• Allergy to Botulinum Toxin
• Neuromuscular disorder

• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Allergy to human albumin.

After your treatment:

Try to exercise your treated muscles for the first hour after treatment (e.g. practice frowning, raising your eyebrows or squinting). This helps to work the treatment into your muscles. Although this may help your procedure outcome, it will NOT impact your treatment negatively if you forget to do this.

·Do NOT have a facial, nor rub or massage the treated area for first 24 hours after your treatment.

·Do NOT lie down or do strenuous exercise for four hours after treatment. Also, avoid any exposure to a sauna, hot tub or tanning for at least 4 days after treatment. Use SPF30-50.

·Avoid exercise for the first 24 hours after treatment. This will prevent your blood pressure from rising and thus minimize the risk of bruising after treatment.

·AVOID alcohol for 24 hours after treatment.

·Please be aware that some, though very few patients, experience a mild headache. You may take Tylenol to help with this for pain relief. Avoid aspirin-based products, no Excedrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, or Advil for the first 3- 4 days.

·Be assured that tiny bumps or marks will go away within a few hours after your treatment. There is a risk of bruising. If this occurs, do not worry since it will only be temporary and can easily be covered up with makeup. Any little bit of bruising may last up to one week.

·You may apply cold compresses for 5-10 minutes every 2 hours if swelling to the affected areas for Botox.

·After Botox is place into the targeted muscles, the weakening effect gradually begins anywhere from 3-7 days and is not complete for two weeks. Therefore, optimal results are not seen for at least two weeks.

·Botox will last approximately 10-12 weeks. However, if you maintain your treatment appointments with the frequency recommended, the duration of each treatment result may last longer.

Recommended Pre & Post Care for Laser Hair Reduction Treatments

Before your treatment:

Hair should be cleanly shaven
Do not wear makeup on the treated area the day of treatment
No sun-tanning or self-tanners 4 weeks prior to treatment
- Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun exposure, etc.
Some medications or supplements may increase the risk bruising. Consult with your physician
No waxing, plucking or tweezing at least 4 weeks prior to treatment
- Some body parts may require a longer wait time
Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (depilatories, harsh chemicals, etc.)
Notify clinic with any changes to your health history or medications since your last appointment
History of herpes or cold sores may require an anti-viral prescription prior to treatment
Avoid vaccines for 2 weeks before and after treatment (flu, covid, etc.)

After your treatment:

Avoid sun exposure and use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen
Redness and perifollicular edema (looks like a rash/bug bites) are common and resolve with time
Bruising and swelling are less common but may occur and will resolve with time
Hair may take up to 2 weeks to fall out
Avoid heat – hot tubs, saunas, etc. for 1-2 days
Avoid skin irritants (examples below) a few days post-treatment
- Products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic/salicylic acids, astringents, etc.
Do not wax or pluck between treatments
Notify clinic of any concerns (blistering, excessive redness/swelling, etc.)
Hair removal requires a series of treatments. The number of treatments depends on body location and type of hair.
Consult with clinic about when to resume skin care regime.

Recommended Pre & Post Care for Laser Genesis Treatments

Before your treatment:

Do not wear makeup on the day of treatment
Excess hair may need to be shaved. Men should be cleanly shaved
No sun-tanning or self-tanners 4 weeks prior to treatment
- Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun exposure, etc.
Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)
Notify clinic with any changes to your health history or medications since your last appointment
History of herpes or cold sores may require an anti-viral prescription prior to treatment
Avoid vaccines for 2 weeks before and after treatment (flu, covid, etc.)

After your treatment:

Avoid sun exposure and use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen to prevent further sun damage
Bruising, redness and swelling may occur and resolve with time
Avoid heat – hot tubs, saunas, etc. for 1-2 days
Avoid skin irritants (examples below) a few days post-treatment
- Products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic/salicylic acids, astringents, etc.
Multiple treatments are required
Notify clinic of any concerns (blistering, excessive redness/swelling, etc.)
Consult with clinic about when to resume skin care regime.

Recommended Pre & Post Care for Pigmented Lesion Treatments

Before your treatment:

Do not wear makeup on the day of treatment
No sun-tanning or self-tanners 4 weeks prior to treatment
- Includes spray tans, tanning lotions, tanning beds, sun exposure, etc.
Some medications or supplements may increase the risk bruising. Consult with your physician.
Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)
Notify clinic with any changes to your health history or medications since your last appointment
History of herpes or cold sores may require an anti-viral prescription prior to treatment
Avoid vaccines for 2 weeks before and after treatment (flu, covid, etc.)

After your treatment:

Avoid sun exposure and use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen to prevent further sun damage
Bruising, redness and swelling are common and resolve with time
Treated pigment will turn darker (brown to black) within 24-48 hours
- Do not pick at treated areas
- Treated pigment will exfoliate off the face in approximately 1 week
- Treated pigment will exfoliate off the body in approximately 2-3 weeks
Avoid heat – hot tubs, saunas, etc. for 1-2 days
Avoid skin irritants (examples below) a few days post-treatment
- Products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic/salicylic acids, astringents, etc.
Notify clinic of any concerns (blistering, excessive redness/swelling, etc.)
Consult with clinic about when to resume skin care regime.

Recommended Pre & Post Care for RF Microneedling

Before treatment communicate with your healthcare provider or clinician about the following:

• If you are pregnant, nursing, or attempting to become pregnant.

• If you have an allergy or sensitivity to metals (including gold, chromium, and nickel) this treatment might not be for you. Please schedule a consultation prior to your appointment to discuss with our medical professionals.

• If you have a history of an autoimmune disorder.

• If you have permanent makeup, tattoos or have had micro-blading.

• If you are currently or have recently been on Accutane, anticoagulants, had Gold Therapy for arthritis or taking photosensitizing medications.

• History of skin disorders, keloids, abnormal wound healing, as well as very dry and fragile skin

• If you have been treated with or are taking any antibiotics.

• If you have any allergies or sensitivity to any topical numbing medications.

• If you have an active cold sore you may want to postpone treatment. If you are prone to developing cold sores, contact our office at (412) 744-9400 and we will discuss the option of prescription prophylactic treatment.

• If you have a Cardiac devices such as AICD’s (auxiliary internal cardiac devices), Defibrillator,
mechanical valves, pacemakers, or neurological stimulating device.

• If you have metal implants in the treatment area, including a Paragard/Copper IUD.

• If you have had filler within 30 days or have been treated with a neurotoxin within 14 days before treatment you may want to postpone treatment.

Avoid vaccines for 2 weeks before and after treatment (flu, covid, etc.)

Before treatment:
1. Avoid any known skin irritants such as retinoids and alpha and/or beta hydroxy acids for 3-5 days prior to treatment unless otherwise directed by your clinician.
2. Avoid treatments that may irritate the skin for 1-2 weeks prior to treatment (waxing, depilatories, etc.)
3. Avoid direct sun exposure, self-tanners, tanning beds, and always use sun protection for at least 4 weeks prior to treatment.
4. To minimize the potential for bruising, avoid use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs like aspirin, Motrin, Advil, ibuprofen, or any other non-Tylenol, non-acetaminophen product) for 2 weeks prior to treatment, unless the medications involved are prescribed for the treatment of an existing medical condition.

After your treatment:

Immediately Following and up to 24 hours:
1. After the procedure, the skin will be red and flushed in appearance in a similar way to moderate sunburn. You may also experience skin tightness and mild sensitivity to touch on the area being treated. This will diminish greatly after a few hours following treatment. After 3 days most visible erythema will be resolved.

2. Bruising, redness and swelling may occur and will resolve with time.

3. You may gently cleanse the treated area 12 hours after treatment. *Avoid products containing paraben 48 hours post treatment.

4. Avoid Sun exposure:

Sunscreen (SPF of 30 or greater) may be worn after the majority of your skin has sloughed (usually by day 5). This is very important in reducing post inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Please remember that UVA light passes through the house and car windows.
Absolutely no artificial tanning or sun exposure without sun protection, in the 4 weeks following the treatment.

5. Contact us if you have any concerns (blistering, excessive redness/swelling, etc.)

6. Avoid skin irritants for 7 days post-treatment, for example; products containing tretinoin, retinol, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic/salicylic acids, astringents, exfoliants etc.

7. No shaving with a razor blade in the treatment area for 5 days following treatment. You may use an electric razor after 3 days if desired.
8. You may use a Vinegar soak:
You can use a vinegar soak 3-4 times daily beginning the day of your treatment to promote healing and provide antiseptic benefits.
Mix 1 teaspoon of plain white vinegar to 2 cups of cool water. This solution may be mixed up ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator.
After 48 hours:
Makeup may be applied 48 hours post treatment as long as the skin is not broken. If the skin is broken, apply antibiotic ointment and contact our office. Mineral makeup is preferred.
After 72 hours:
Some patients may experience flaking 3-5 days post treatment. If this occurs do not pull or pick flaking skin and continue using gentle cleanser a moisturizer until flaking resolves.
You may begin to use an electric razor in the treatment area as desired.
After 7 days:
Resume your normal prescribed skin care regimen as instructed by your clinician. You may find that you are sensitive to products that you usually use and tolerate well. If your skin feels more sensitive than usual, cleanse with a gentle, non-acidic cleanser.
Retinol can be resumed and should be applied around the frame of the face and blended inward. You may resume exercise and any activities involving heat, for example; hot tubs, saunas, etc.
You should always wear an SPF of 15 or greater when exposed to any sunlight. Do not touch your face. Clean hands thoroughly before applying product. Keep your hair off your face.

Recommended Pre & Post Care for Sculptra

Sculptra Pre-Care Instructions:

Do NOT take aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen, Naproxen, Aleve, Vitamin E, Gingko Biloba, fish oil,
St. John’s Wort, garlic pills, or other anti-inflammatory medications for 1-2 weeks if okay with
your primary physician. These medications can increase the risk of bruising. For mild pain or
headaches Tylenol is preferred.
DO consider taking over the counter Arnica supplements (available at The Derm Institute, most
supplement stores, Whole Foods, etc) starting 3-5 days before your treatment as they have
been shown to decrease bruising.
DO inform your nurse or physician if you have a history of medication allergies, history of
anaphylaxis, and any other medical problems.
The ideal time to schedule this procedure is at LEAST 2 weeks before a big event
Avoid excess sun exposure. Protecting your skin from the sun is always important, but after treatment, excessive sunlight and UV lamp exposure should be avoided until any initial swelling and redness go away.
Remember, Sculptra Aesthetic works by gradually replacing lost collagen. It provides improvements subtly without making it look like you’ve had work done.

Sculptra Post-Care Instructions:

Massage the treated areas five times a day for about 5 minutes for five days after treatment.
Hold ice packs on the treated areas gently for about 3-5 minutes a few times that day. Feel free to wear makeup a few hours after. Treated areas may be red, swollen, and bruised for the first 2-7 days and this is normal.
Do NOT get a facial or massage for two weeks after your Sculptra procedure.
Avoid strenuous workouts and alcohol for 24 hours.
A few days after treatment, you will look as you did before treatment. This is normal; over time, Sculptra will replace lost collagen.
Follow up treatments should be scheduled about every 4-6 weeks. Visible results may not be seen until three sessions have been completed. Results can last more than two years.