Bruising After Lifting: Duration, Cold Packs, When to Call

How long does bruising last after lifting?

Bruising after lifting depends on the treatment and was reported to settle within 2 days to 2 weeks for Ulthera and generally within 1 to 3 weeks for thread lifts.

In a HIFU meta-analysis, bruising was reported as a common adverse reaction along with redness, edema and tenderness, and it was generally mild to moderate. A thread lift meta-analysis reported bruising in 26%.

The UK NHS advises that ordinary bruises usually get better within 2 to 3 weeks. Duration varies from person to person.

How can I care for a bruise at home?

For a bruise, the usual advice is to repeatedly apply a cloth-wrapped ice pack for about 10 to 20 minutes at a time during the first 1 to 2 days.

It is important not to put ice directly on the skin, and this method is the NHS advice for ordinary bruises. Depending on the type of treatment, the medical team's advice on whether and how long to use a cold compress comes first.

Following CELITA Clinic's general aftercare instructions, do not rub the treated area, and avoid alcohol, smoking, saunas and strenuous exercise for 1 week. Light makeup is possible from 2 to 3 hours after treatment.

What should people who bruise easily mention in advance?

Mention all the medicines and supplements you usually take and any bleeding-related medical history before treatment.

The American Academy of Dermatology explains that some blood-thinning medicines increase the risk of bleeding and bruising after injection treatments, and that aspirin, unless prescribed, can make bruising worse. Warfarin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and garlic and ginger supplements are also listed as things to mention.

It is safer not to stop any medicine on your own but to discuss it with the prescribing doctor and the medical team.

When should I contact the clinic right away?

If a bruise has not gone after 3 weeks, or if the skin turns white or bluish and the pain gets worse, contact the clinic right away.

After injection treatments, skin turning pale, a net-like red mottled pattern, or dark red or bluish discoloration can, though rarely, be a sign of a blood vessel problem, so prompt checking is described as important. Changes in vision or unusual pain are also symptoms that need immediate medical attention.

You can contact CELITA Clinic through the main number, 051-928-0409, or the messenger channel you used to book.

Step by step

1. From the day of treatment, do not rub or massage the treated area.
2. For the first 1 to 2 days, apply a cloth-wrapped ice pack for about 10 to 20 minutes at a time.
3. Avoid alcohol, smoking, saunas and strenuous exercise for 1 week.
4. When going out, apply sunscreen and use light makeup if needed.
5. If a bruise remains after 3 weeks or its color looks unusual, contact the clinic.