The use of fillers has sky-rocketed in popularity–because they work. But we continue to attempt to reduce discomfort, swelling, and bruising.

Typically, when injecting fillers or Botox, we will use a topical anesthetic cream and ice to reduce any discomfort.

With fillers, we suggest the use of Arnica Montana, commonly called Arnica, sublingual tablets and a topical Arnica cream to diminish bruising and swelling, and it helps.

We also suggest to patients that they eliminate supplements and foods that prolong bleeding time such as: fish oil, Omega-3, Advil, Aleve, aspirin (even baby aspirin), garlic, and vitamin E products for at least two weeks prior to injections. The down side of not complying is more bruising, swelling and longer recovery. Many diet drinks contain vitamin E. Check the labels.

At the recent American Society of Aesthetic plastic Surgery (ASAPS) meeting, I came across a product called SinEcch. SinEcch is a homeopathic Arnica Montana tablet that has been demonstrated to dramatically reduce swelling, visible bruising, and the usual associated discomfort.

The mechanism is really unknown, but the hypothesis is that it aids the body to remove any remains of blood and swelling. Most importantly, it has been clinically proven to be effective in a double blind study. So fillers (Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm, Voluma, and Sculptra) can truly be lunchtime facial rejuvenation, and the effects can last up to two years.

Upon our return to Savannah on May 6, we will be incorporating SinEcch in our filler regimen at no cost to the patient.

Happy patients are always our goal.