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Safety & Aftercare · Q47

Why share your medications and past treatments first

Question: Why do I need to share my medications and past treatments before a procedure?

Short answer

You need to share your medications and treatment history because some medicines raise the risk of bleeding and bruising, and previous filler or implants affect the choice of treatment area and method. It is a good idea to share not only prescription medicines but also over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, herbal remedies and supplements. Do not stop any medication on your own; discuss it with the prescribing doctor and the medical team.

Key points

  • Some blood-thinning medicines raise bleeding and bruising risk
  • Share OTC medicines, vitamins, herbal remedies, supplements
  • Do not stop medication yourself; ask your prescribing doctor
  • Device treatment directly over filler or implants: not evaluated
  • Also share allergies, recurring cold sores, heart conditions
Why share your medications and past treatments first
Aspirin may bruiseAI-generated image for illustration; it may differ from actual treatments and results.

Why do I need to share my medications?

Some blood-thinning medicines raise the risk of bleeding and bruising after injections, so tell us about your medications in advance.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) explains that aspirin, unless it has been prescribed for you, can make bruising worse. Knowing this, the medical team can adjust the treatment method or timing and advise you on aftercare.

However, stopping a medication on your own can be dangerous. Whether a medication should be adjusted must be decided together by the doctor who prescribed it and the medical team performing the treatment.

Which medicines and supplements should I mention?

Share not only prescription medicines but also over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and herbal remedies, and it is a good idea to mention ones you stopped a while ago as well.

The AAD advises mentioning the following medicines and supplements in particular. If you cannot remember the names, bringing the medicine packets or photos of the products helps.

If you are taking or have recently taken the acne medication isotretinoin, mention that too. A task force of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery concluded that there is insufficient evidence to postpone some procedures, but decisions about ultrasound, radiofrequency and injectable treatments are made in consultation with the medical team.

  • Warfarin
  • Aspirin
  • Ibuprofen
  • Vitamin E
  • St. John's wort
  • Garlic supplements, ginger supplements

Why does my previous treatment history matter?

Device treatment directly over previous filler or implants has not been evaluated, so your treatment history is needed to decide the treatment area and method.

The Ultherapy PRIME instructions for use do not recommend treating directly over mechanical implants, filler or breast implants, and list metal implants in the treatment area and active implanted devices such as pacemakers and defibrillators as contraindications.

The AAD also advises sharing previous cosmetic procedures, including other injections and implants. Even for treatments you had at another clinic, share the type, area and timing as far as you can remember.

Besides medications, what medical history should I share?

Allergies, bleeding disorders, recurring cold sores (lip blisters), heart conditions and easily irritated skin are part of the medical history to share before treatment.

If you often get cold sores or your skin is easily irritated, your reaction after treatment may differ, so the medical team needs to know in advance. Also mention any allergy to anesthetic ingredients such as lidocaine.

At CELITA Clinic, the Director checks your medical history and medications at the consultation stage after reception. Questions before booking can be sent by one-on-one message.

FAQ

How many days before treatment should I stop my medication?

Whether and when to stop a medication depends on the type of medicine and why you take it, so there is no single rule. Decide after discussing it with the prescribing doctor and the medical team performing the treatment.

Should I mention dietary supplements too?

Yes. Some supplements, such as vitamin E and garlic or ginger supplements, are mentioned in connection with bruising, so it is a good idea to share them. Bringing a written list of the products you take makes the consultation easier.

What should I do if I bruise after treatment?

For ordinary bruises, applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for about 10-20 minutes at a time over the first 1-2 days is recommended. Ordinary bruises usually improve within 2-3 weeks; if one has not gone after 3 weeks, contact the clinic.

Important

This article is general medical information, not a diagnosis or treatment. Results, recovery time and side effects vary with each person's skin, and whether a treatment suits you is decided after consultation with a doctor. If you notice unusual symptoms, contact the clinic that treated you right away.

Sources

  1. AAD: Fillers - how to prepare
  2. AAD: Fillers FAQs
  3. Ultherapy PRIME Instructions for Use (Merz)
  4. Waldman 2017 (isotretinoin consensus)

All questions in Safety & Aftercare

  1. Q46. When should I postpone or avoid a lifting treatment?
  2. Q47. Why do I need to share my medications and past treatments before a procedure?
  3. Q48. What are the side effects of lifting treatments?
  4. Q49. How should I care for my skin at home after treatment?
  5. Q50. How often should I get a lifting treatment?