Restylane: Why can't I have a glass of wine? My Doc said "no alcohol!". Why is this? What would happen? (photo)

Question

Had injections at Noon (MDT). What are effects of alcohol, and why did he tell me "no alcohol" Thanks!

Paul S. Nassif, MD · Answer

Each physician has his or her own specific guidelines for patients to follow before and after a procedure. In general, consumption of alcohol may increase the likelihood of bruising after treatment with filler. Other than this, there are no other associated complications with consumption of alcohol and filler injections. I hope this information helps, and I wish you the best of luck.

Sabika Karim, MBBS · Answer

Dear triathlyn,
Many thanks for your question. The most important reason to avoid alcohol both before and after injectable treatments is to prevent your blood becoming too thin. This will make you less likely to have significant swelling or bruising and speed up your recovery. 
The quicker you recover, the quicker you will be able to enjoy your new lips.

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

Alcohol will thin the blood slightly so you are more likely to have a bruise if you drink after Restylane injections. I use cannulas for most of my injections so the chance of bruising is minimized. Supplements, NSAIDS, aspirin, and alcohol will all thin the blood and shouldn't be taken if bruising would interrupt your social calendar.  We use a vascular laser to heal bruising faster. It will resolve a bruise after 1-2 days vs the typical 10-14 days. Arnica orally and topically (Ocumend) will also help resolve bruising.When looking at your picture, I am somewhat concerned about the mottled appearance of your skin. This is called livedo reticularis and is an early sign of vascular occlusion. I know this is a question posted years ago, but I'd be interested if this turned out to be a vascular problem.

Abha Gupta, MBChB, FRCOphth · Answer

Hello
Many thanks for Sharma by your question and also your photos. 
The reason is scientifically alcohol has proven effects to increase likelihood of bruising and also bleeding. This is because of the effects it has at a cellular level. 
We say to avoid alcohol a week before treatments and also a day or two after treatment to try to maximise the effects. You should ask your injector for their personal face to face opinion also.  
Hope this helps.

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

Alcohol is a vasodilator meaning that you would have a greater likelihood of bruising having had a drink. The scientific studies confirm this, although on a much larger scale.  No one wants to have bruising and swelling after investing in fillers so abstaining makes sense. Best wishes.

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The reason some doctors do not recommend alcohol after injection is because it enlarges the blood vessels, thus it can make you more susceptible to bruising, swelling and bleeding. I also advise my patients to avoid any NSAID’s such as ibuprofen before and after treatment as it can lead to increase swelling and bruising. I hope this helps!

Ariel Ostad, MD · Answer

Alcohol increases your chance of bleeding, bruising and swelling post injection. It is important to avoid alcohol use at least one week prior to filler injections to avoid these effects. For optimal results, consult with a board certified dermatologist. Thank you for your question.

Susan M. Stuart, MD · Answer

Hi there, and thanks for your
question. Alcohol enlarges blood vessels, which can make you more susceptible
to bruising, swelling, and bleeding after an injection. In general, it's wise
to abstain from alcohol for around 24 hours before and after an injectable
treatment.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Alcohol can increase the bruising of the facial injections.  I tell patients to avoid alcohol, aspirin, alleve, motrin, and vitamin E for one week before the injections.  For the best cosmetic results please consult a board certified dermatologist with a great deal of experience with facial injections.

Eric Desman, MD · Answer

The recommendation was made because alcohol consumption around the time of a procedure can cause increased bruising. Thus, your doctor is looking out for your best interests and is trying to get you the best outcome. Good luck.

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