Quick Guide to Reducing Bruising
Most cosmetic treatments, whether it is a surgical procedure or injections of Botox, will have some bruising as a side effect. But there are ways to help shorten the duration of bruising during recovery from either surgical or non-invasive cosmetic treatments.
Why bruising occurs
When an incision or injection is made, much more is going on than you can see with your eyes. Aside from the break in the skin, underlying blood vessels are also encountered, which in turn can create blood pooling in the surrounding tissues. The telltale black or bluish discoloration of a bruise is actually blood that has collected in a certain area near the surgical or injection site.
How to keep bruising to a minimum
The following steps have been proven to reduce bruising during recovery:
- Apply cold compresses consistently to the bruised area for the first 48 hours following the procedure. The cold temperature will constrict the blood vessels and further prevent blood from seeping into neighboring tissue.
- Use compression garments or bandages as instructed. The external pressure provided by the compression garment will help keep the blood from further escaping into the surrounding cells and tissues.
- Avoid alcohol two weeks before and after the procedure. Alcohol mimics the action of blood thinners and can also reduce the vitamin C levels that are crucial to maintaining optimal vein health.
- Avoid blood thinners such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) two weeks before and after your scheduled procedure. Talk to your doctor about alternatives.
- Take vitamin K supplements that help thicken the blood. Supplements with similar effects include bromelain and arnica montana to help minimize the bruising and inflammation.
For a more detailed talk on how to accelerate healing after cosmetic treatments, call 702.732.9600 to schedule an appointment today!