How Can I Minimize Swelling After Radiesse?

Many doctors who are using Radiesse are now adding an anesthetic in the Radiesse (off-label use) which makes it much more comfortable. You might want to ask your doctor if they recommend taking an herb called Arnica Montana that may suppress bruising and swelling.

Stay away from medicines and vitamins that increase bruising for a few weeks prior to your injection. These include but not limited ot Vit E, Fish and Krill Oil, Omega 3 fatty acids, aspirin, alleive, ibuprofen, garlic oil, etc. Cooling with ice (never directly on the skin), head elevation, Arnica, Bromelain and Advil after a few days will tend to help with swelling. As this is a physiologic and not an allergic histimine response, Zyrtec and Benedryl (antihistimines) should not have any benefit.

Hi Mimi,
In addition to other comments listed here, take Bromelain (500-1000 mg per day) for one week before and after your treatment. Bromelain is a pineapple extract that helps keep swelling down. You may also use fresh pineapple.
Ask your injecting physician to use ice. Ice before the injections helps to decrease the chances of bleeding.
Lastly, avoid alcohol for a couple of days before, and a couple after your injections. Do not work out for at least two days following your injections.
Good luck and enjoy the fullness in your face.
Dr. P

Mimi1,
It sounds like you had more bruising and swelling than what typically occurs with Radiesse injections. Most people have moderate swelling and minimal bruising. I am interest to know how much was injected and how many punctures in the skin were used. In most cases we can perform all your injections with only two or three punctures with the needle per side.
Also, it is possible to mix the Radiesse with an anesthetic solution which helps with the pain, but also helps minimize the bruising and swelling afterwards. Good luck with your next injection.

To minimize swelling after Radiesse injections, consider applying a cold compress to the treated area for short intervals, taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication if approved by your healthcare provider, and avoiding strenuous exercise for a day or two. Always follow your healthcare provider’s post-treatment instructions for the best results.

Thank you for your question. Having swelling after injection is common and it can take up to 2 weeks to resolve. Taking Tylenol and icing the area will help reduce the swelling. If you are looking for a more homeopathic remedy than I recommend arnica or bromelain.

Any procedure may cause bruising and swelling, especially in the facial region. I think it is important that you review with your physician any medications, herbs, or nutraceuticals that you are currently taking, as many may cause bleeding. There are steps that your physician can take, such as pre and post-icing, pre-injecting with local anesthetic with epinephrine, and applying gentle pressure to the treated areas after each injection.
Post operatively, it’s important to avoid any strenuous activity and continue to ice. Your physician may choose to use both steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications as this may further reduce your risks of swelling and bruising. Bottom line, talk to your physician injector.
I hope this helps!

I would discuss your concern with your injector. Certain injection techniques such as injecting a bolus rather than linear threading. Nonetheless, consider Arnica (come in pills and gel form) for 1 week after you have your injections to minimize bruising. Vitamin K can also be used (available forms include solution for intramuscular injection, pills and topical formulations).
Good luck.

To mimi1,
Hi! You had a bad and unusual experience. Should not happen again if you go to a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist.
These days, I get very little bruising or swelling. I prefer Juvederm for the cheeks because it is very soft and smooth. It lasts a long time ( over 9 months).
The filler should be injected DEEPLY with a tiny needle, using a few passes. The skin should not be manipulated. Apply cold compresses for an hour after the injections.