Anti-wrinkle injections, commonly known as Botox®, are used to reduce wrinkles and create a smoother appearance on the face. Although anti-wrinkle injections can be an effective way to reduce the signs of ageing, there is some risk involved in using anti-wrinkle injections. One potential complication that may arise from anti-wrinkle injections is bruising at the injection site.
Most anti-wrinkle injection treatments involve injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin into various muscles of the face which causes temporary muscle paralysis resulting in a smoother facial appearance. However, when needles penetrate through the skin at the injection sites, this can cause blood vessels underneath to break producing bruises or haematomas at those locations. Bruises usually appear as dark red or purple marks that can take up to two weeks or more to heal, although they are generally small – and I tend to have a pretty good track record with not causing too many bruises!
In most cases, anti-wrinkle injection side effects are mild and temporary. Other complications associated with anti-wrinkle injections may include swelling, redness, itching, headaches, nausea and flu-like symptoms – all of which are very rare and highly unusual. It is important to select a qualified practitioner when considering anti-wrinkle injection treatments to reduce the risk of potential complications such as bruising. The practitioner should be well-versed in facial anatomy and injectable techniques to minimise unwanted side effects.
It is also recommended that patients avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen) before and after anti-wrinkle injection procedures as this may increase the likelihood of bruising at the injection sites. In addition, it is essential to follow post-injection instructions as directed by the physician in order to ensure the best anti-wrinkle injection results while minimising any potential complications. This includes avoiding alcohol for at least 24 hours and keeping caffeine to a minimum – and also avoiding getting overheated or working out strenuously.
Overall, anti-wrinkle injections can be an effective way to reduce signs of ageing on the face but there are some risks involved. Bruising may occur at the injection sites and other complications including swelling, redness, itching and headaches can occur as well. To reduce these risks, it is important to select a qualified practitioner and follow all pre-and post-injection instructions carefully. No one is ever treated for any skin treatment without a full and thorough skin consultation before treatment.
There are other skin treatments available for smoothing lines and wrinkles, and injectables such as Profhilo and Skin boosters can be really helpful alongside other treatments. Sally offers a range of treatments from her Lichfield clinic to help support skin and reduce signs of ageing such as chemical peels, skin tightening and microneedling – contact her for more information.
Sally from Sally Wagstaff Aesthetics, Lichfield has been the owner and Director of Sally Wagstaff Aesthetics since 2013, and is an experienced Registered Nurse and Independent Nurse Prescriber. With a previous career history including over 18 years as a Nursing Officer in the Royal Navy!
Contact Sally Wagstaff today for professional aesthetic treatments.
References:
1. Gulati A (2018). Botox Injections: Side Effects & Complications | Cleveland
