Alcohol can indeed worsen bruising after dermal filler treatments, including after filler dissolving procedures, because it dilates blood vessels and thins the blood, increasing the risk and severity of bruising and swelling. This effect applies to the period following filler injections as well as after the use of hyaluronidase, the enzyme used to dissolve hyaluronic acid fillers.
When dermal fillers are dissolved, typically with hyaluronidase, the skin and underlying tissues are still in a sensitive state. The injection process itself can cause minor trauma to blood vessels, leading to bruising and swelling. Alcohol consumption exacerbates this by causing vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and reducing the blood’s ability to clot effectively, which can prolong and intensify bruising and swelling[1][3].
Medical experts and aesthetic practitioners commonly advise avoiding alcohol for at least 24 to 48 hours before and after filler injections or dissolving treatments. This precaution helps minimize bruising and swelling, promoting better healing and more predictable cosmetic outcomes[1][3][4][7].
The physiological reasons behind this include:
– Alcohol causes blood vessels to expand, increasing blood flow to the skin and making capillaries more prone to rupture during injections or dissolving procedures.
– Alcohol acts as a blood thinner, reducing platelet aggregation and clot formation, which delays the cessation of bleeding from small vessel injuries caused by needle punctures.
– Increased blood flow and thinner blood contribute to more extensive bruising and longer-lasting swelling.
Bruising after filler injections or dissolving is common because the needle can damage small blood vessels under the skin, especially in delicate areas like around the eyes or lips. Bruises typically appear as purple or red discolorations and can last from a few days up to a week or more, depending on individual healing and external factors like alcohol consumption[3][6].
Additional factors that can worsen bruising include:
– Use of other blood-thinning substances such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or certain supplements.
– Individual predisposition to bruising due to genetics or medical conditions.
– Injection technique and the skill of the practitioner.
To reduce bruising and swelling after filler dissolving:
– Avoid alcohol for at least 24 to 48 hours before and after the procedure.
– Apply cold compresses intermittently during the first 24 hours to constrict blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
– Avoid strenuous exercise, heat exposure (like saunas or hot showers), and activities that increase blood flow to the face for a few days.
– Stay hydrated and consider consuming foods with natural anti-inflammatory properties, such as pineapple, which contains bromelain[6][8].
– Sleep with your head elevated to help fluid drainage and reduce swelling.
If bruising or swelling worsens or persists beyond the expected healing time, consult your healthcare provider for assessment and possible treatment.
In summary, alcohol consumption after filler dissolving can significantly worsen bruising and swelling due to its blood-thinning and vasodilatory effects. Avoiding alcohol around the time of the procedure is a well-supported recommendation by medical professionals to ensure safer and more comfortable recovery[1][3][4][7].
