The most important thing to consider before the injection is to have open communication with your doctor. Every patient may have different expectations, some which are realistic while some not quite. As long as you and your doctor are both on the same page regarding what can be achieved in terms of an optimal and balanced result, you are set to start.

Before the injection, some measurements may be taken, and some markings may be done to guide your doctor during the procedure. Although social media is a very popular reason to take photographs, often times before and after pictures are taken to determine how well the expected result turned out. Therefore, before the procedure (and after) photographs may be taken. Local anesthetic creams can be used to numb the area, but this is another topic for you talk about with your doctor as some patients have a very high pain threshold and hardly require local anesthetic (at least for certain areas like the cheeks or the chin) or some may be very fearful of pain and can opt for more effective numbing options like nerve blocks.

During the procedure your doctor will clean the area to be injected and go on to inject with either a needle or a cannula. The difference between a needle and cannula is that needles are sharp, and cannulas are blunt. Cannulas are often longer than needles so they can extend quite far from the entrance point, and you may not see any signs of injections on the overlying skin. But for cannulas to enter, a small needle poke is required to allow for access.

After the injection the area will once again be disinfected, and an ice pack will usually be applied to sooth the area. Certain ointments to minimize bruising, swelling or tension can be applied as well. While doctors may offer different recommendations, you will likely receive the following warnings:

• Refrain from washing the treated area for a minimum of 2-3 hours.
• Avoid rubbing the area and refrain from applying makeup on the day of the treatment.
• Abstain from engaging in strenuous activities, including exercise, and avoid consuming alcohol.
• Steer clear of dental treatments and other aesthetic procedures of any kind.
• Avoid extended exposure to the sun, UV rays, and extreme temperatures (intense cold, sauna, hammam, etc.), for the two weeks following the treatment.
•  Refrain from taking high doses of Vitamin E, aspirin, anti-inflammatories, or anti-coagulants during the week prior to the injection session.

You will also be called in for a follow up consultation to see how things settle, usually after 2 weeks. Touch ups may be done at this time if required. And if you feel that anything is not right, considering pain, tingling or the appearance of the area, you will be directed to contact your doctor immediately.

Dr. Billur Sezgin Kizilok

Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgeonon

Turkey

As an accomplished plastic surgeon, she holds the title of "Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery" (FEBOPRAS) and "Fellow" of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)