Pain and axiety management

At Sweetwater Aesthetics, our experienced medical professionals will assess your specific needs and recommend the appropriate injectable medication, topical numbing cream, ice, or distraction device for your procedure. You will be provided with instructions on its application, duration, and any precautions to ensure the best possible outcomes. Topical numbing creams can significantly enhance your comfort and reduce pain during aesthetic procedures. Stress balls and fidget gadgets are available to help promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and provide a positive sensory experience.

  • Topical numbing creams, also known as local anesthetics, are products that are applied directly to the skin to temporarily numb the area before a procedure or treatment. They work by blocking nerve signals in the skin, reducing or eliminating pain sensations during the procedure. Here are some key points about topical numbing creams:

    • Application: Topical numbing creams are typically applied generously to the treatment area and should be given enough time to take effect. The cream is usually left on the skin for a specified period, allowing the active ingredients to penetrate and numb the area

    • Duration: Typically, the numbing effect can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours. It's important to follow the instructions provided by your aesthetician for the most effective and safe use

    • Common Uses: Topical numbing creams are commonly used in various aesthetic procedures such as dermal fillers, microneedling, and PDO Threads. They help to minimize discomfort and pain associated with these treatments, making them more tolerable

  • Stress balls and fidget gadgets are simple but effective tools that can help alleviate anxiety, improve focus, and provide a sense of relaxation. Here are some key points about stress balls and fidget gadgets:

    • Stress Balls: Stress balls are small, pliable objects that can be squeezed and manipulated with your hands. They are typically made from foam, rubber, or gel-filled materials. Squeezing a stress ball can help relieve tension, reduce muscle stiffness, and provide a physical outlet for stress or anxiety

    • Fidget Gadgets: Fidget gadgets are small handheld devices that offer various movements or sensory experiences. They are designed to keep your hands busy and your mind engaged, which can be particularly helpful for individuals who struggle with restlessness or the need for constant movement. Fidget gadgets often include features like buttons, sliders, switches, spinners, or textured surfaces to provide sensory stimulation

    • Anxiety Relief: Both stress balls and fidget gadgets can help redirect anxious thoughts and provide a sensory distraction. Engaging with these tools can help reduce anxiety symptoms by occupying the hands and mind, providing a calming effect, and promoting relaxation

  • Ice packs are available to help reduce any swelling, inflammation, or discomfort that may occur after certain treatments. Ice can provide a soothing and numbing effect on the skin, helping to alleviate pain and promote healing. Here are some key points about using ice for pain:

    • Cold Therapy: Applying ice or cold packs to the affected area is a form of cold therapy. Cold temperatures help constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the area, which can help decrease inflammation, swelling, and pain

    • Numbing Effect: Ice can have a numbing effect on the area it is applied to, temporarily dulling pain sensations

    • Reducing Inflammation: Ice helps limit the release of inflammatory substances and can reduce the activity of pain receptors in the area. By minimizing inflammation, ice can contribute to pain relief and promote faster healing

    • Timing and Duration: It's important to apply ice right before & right after treatment is administered for best results. Continuing to apply ice throughout the next 48 hours can help reduce swelling and bruising that may occur with certain treatments.

  • Our Med Spa offers vibration T-bars, which are handheld devices that gently massage the treatment area. The vibrations help to distract nerve endings and create a soothing sensation, reducing pain and anxiety during procedures. Here are some key points about vibration T-bars:

    • Vibration T-bars offer several potential benefits for pain and anxiety management. They can help relax muscles, promote circulation, and provide a soothing effect. The vibrations stimulate the nerve endings in the skin and underlying tissues, which can help alleviate pain, tension, and discomfort

    • The vibrations generated by T-bars can help distract nerve endings and disrupt pain signals. This can be particularly beneficial for localized pain

    • The gentle vibrations from the T-bar can provide a calming and relaxing sensation, helping to reduce anxiety and stress levels. The repetitive motion and sensory stimulation can promote a sense of relaxation and well-being

    • Vibration T-bars can be used in conjunction with other pain management techniques or relaxation strategies to enhance their effectiveness. For example, using a vibration T-bar along with topical numbing creams, ice therapy, or deep breathing exercises can create a comprehensive approach to pain and anxiety management.

  • For certain procedures, we may offer lidocaine injections to provide localized numbing. Lidocaine is a commonly used anesthetic that helps to block pain signals in the area being treated, ensuring a more comfortable experience. Here's some additional information about lidocaine injections:

    • Lidocaine is a type of local anesthetic. It works by blocking nerve signals in the area where it is injected, temporarily numbing the region and reducing or eliminating pain sensations in localized areas

    • The duration of numbness provided by lidocaine injections can vary depending on the concentration of the solution used and individual factors. Typically, the numbness lasts for a limited duration, ranging from a few minutes to a few hours.

    • Lidocaine injections can be used in combination with other pain management techniques, such as topical numbing creams or nerve blocks, to enhance their effectiveness. The specific combination of techniques utilized will depend on the procedure and individual patient needs.

  • · Plan 1 week of no major events in case you bruise.

    · Taking blood thinners such as Aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Motrin, Fish Oil, Vitamin E and Vitamin A or consuming alcoholic beverages may increase the risk of bruising. Please receive Physician approval before stopping any prescribed medication.

    · Start Arnica tabs and or Arnica cream 3 days prior to your appointment to help minimize bruising, you may continue for 3-5 days after injections.

    · If you have a history of cold sores notify our office so a provider can prescribe cold sore medication.

    · If you are sick or have an active infection prior to your appointment please call the office to reschedule your injection appointment.

  • ·  No bending, lifting or laying down for at least 2 hours after injections.

    ·  No face down massages or facials for 24 hours after injections.

    ·  After neurotoxin injections it is normal to have small welts or bumps at the injection site. Please do not touch or manipulate.

    ·  Although some people react quicker to certain neurotoxins the full effect of your treatment will take between 10-14 days. 

    ·  Expect a mild headache, swelling, redness, tingling or mild itching, and bruising.

    ·  Use Arica Montana cream, gel, or tablets to minimize bruising.

    ·  Make small contractions of the muscles treated every 20 mins for the next hour or two. Moving your facial muscles through expressions will help the product to absorb and disperse faster.

    · You MUST keep your head UPRIGHT for at least 2 hours after injection

    ·  Avoid wearing tight caps or garments

    ·  When cleansing, avoid pressure and use gentle strokes away from the eyes.

    ·  Don’t touch, rub, massage your face, or apply makeup (unless it’s mineral based) for 4-6 hours. When resuming makeup, please use clean brushes and sponges.

    ·  Don’t expose yourself to UV and extreme heat, including hot showers, hot tubs, saunas, and exercise for 24 hours.

    ·  Avoid alcohol for 24 hours

  • · Plan 1-2 weeks of no major events in case you bruise or swell.

    · Taking blood thinners such as Aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Motrin, Fish Oil, Vitamin E and Vitamin A or consuming alcoholic beverages may cause an increase in the risk of bruising. Please receive Physician approval before stopping any prescribed medication.

    · Start Arnica tabs and or Arnica cream 3 days prior to your appointment to help minimize bruising, you may continue for 3-5 days after injections.

    · If you have a history of cold sores notify our office so a provider can prescribe cold sore medication.

    ·  If you are sick or have an active infection prior to your appointment please call the office to reschedule your injection appointment.

    ·  No vaccines 2 weeks before or after your filler appointment.

    · No dental work of any kind 2 weeks before or after your appointment.

  • · To minimize bacteria to injection sites, avoid touching the injected area for 24 hours. Keep hair and phone away from the treated area for several hours.

    · Avoid wearing make-up for 24 hours. When resuming makeup, please use clean brushes and sponges.

    · Avoid excessive heat or strenuous exercise for 24 hours, which may cause increase bruising.

    · Avoid laying on your face for long periods of time (side-sleeping, facials, massage) for 1 week.

    · If a cold sore develops, please continue medication as prescribed.

    · Please notify the office right away if there is pain, discoloration or blistering after any injection appointment.

    · Allow 2 full weeks for full healing and final results.

    · No dental work or vaccines of any kind for 2 weeks before or after your injection appointment.

    · Expect numbness & tingling, moderate swelling, redness, tingling, bruising and tenderness. Bruising typically fades in 7-14 days; some may last 4-6 weeks.

    · Use Arica Montana cream, gel, or tablets to minimize bruising.

    · Expect a dull ache and tenderness, which should subside in 48-72 hours. Mild non-painful swelling can last up to 2 weeks.

    · Apply a cold compress for swelling.

    · Take TYLENOL for mild pain.

    · Stay hydrated

    · Don’t massage the area for 1 week unless instructed by your Injector.

    · Avoid exposure to UV and extreme heat, including hot showers, hot tubs, saunas, and exercise for 24 hours.

    · Don’t consume alcohol for 24 hours.

    · Don’t smoke for 12 hours.

  • · If you develop swelling, puffiness or lumpiness which does not fade in 1 week with gentle massage.

    · The filler changes texture and becomes hard, nodular or lumpy, especially if there is redness or tenderness after 48 hours.

  • · Increasing pain near or above the site of the injection, which is getting worse over time, especially if associated with a pale area of skin indicating a lack of blood flow.

    · In rare cases, an urgent reversal or other medical interventions may be required immediately to prevent scarring. If it is after hours or you cannot reach us, go to your nearest Emergency Department.

    · Please try to contact us as soon as possible so we can advise other Medical Providers on the best course of treatment.

  • Plan 1-2 weeks of no major events in case you bruise or swell.

    Taking blood thinners such as Aspirin, Advil, Aleve, Motrin, Fish Oil, Vitamin E and Vitamin A or consuming alcoholic beverages may cause an increase in the risk of bruising. Please receive Physician approval before stopping any prescribed medication.

    Start Arnica tabs and or Arnica cream 3 days prior to your appointment to help minimize bruising, you may continue for 3-5 days after injections.

    If you have a history of cold sores notify our office so a provider can prescribe cold sore medication.

    If you are sick or have an active infection prior to your appointment please call the office to reschedule your injection appointment.

    No vaccines 2 weeks before or after your filler appointment. 

    No dental work of any kind 2 weeks before or after your appointment.

  • To minimize bacteria to injection sites, avoid touching the injected area for 24 hours. Keep hair and phone away from the treated area for several hours.

    Avoid wearing make-up for 24 hours. When resuming makeup, please use clean brushes and sponges.

    Avoid excessive heat or strenuous exercise for 24 hours, which may cause increase bruising.

    Avoid laying on your face for long periods of time (side-sleeping, facials, massage) for 1 week.

    If a cold sore develops, please continue medication as prescribed.

    Please notify the office right away if there is pain, discoloration or blistering after any injection appointment.

    Allow 2 full weeks for full healing and final results.

    No dental work or vaccines of any kind for 2 weeks before or after your injection appointment.

    Expect numbness & tingling, moderate swelling, redness, tingling, bruising and tenderness. Bruising typically fades in 7-14 days; some may last 4-6 weeks.

    Use Arica Montana cream, gel, or tablets to minimize bruising.

    Expect a dull ache and tenderness, which should subside in 48-72 hours. Mild non-painful swelling can last up to 2 weeks.

    Apply a cold compress for swelling.

    Take TYLENOL for mild pain.

    Stay hydrated

    Don’t massage the area for 1 week unless instructed by your Injector. 

    Avoid exposure to UV and extreme heat, including hot showers, hot tubs, saunas, and exercise for 24 hours.

    Don’t consume alcohol for 24 hours.

    Don’t smoke for 12 hours.

  • If you develop swelling, puffiness or lumpiness which does not fade in 1 week with gentle massage.

    The filler changes texture and becomes hard, nodular or lumpy, especially if there is redness or tenderness after 48 hours.

  • Increasing pain near or above the site of the injection, which is getting worse over time, especially if associated with a pale area of skin indicating a lack of blood flow.

    In rare cases, an urgent reversal or other medical interventions may be required immediately to prevent scarring. If it is after hours or you cannot reach us, go to your nearest Emergency Department. 

    Please try to contact us as soon as possible so we can advise other Medical Providers on the best course of treatment.

  • · If you develop a fever, cold, flu, or inflammation in the treatment areas we must reschedule. Use of PRP treatment with a heightened immune system increases risks for complications.

    · We recommend treating no sooner than 3-4 weeks before a special event or upcoming vacation to allow time for adequate healing and swelling to subside.

    · If you have a history of cold sores, consider beginning prophylactic treatment with Valtrex or similar no later than the day of treatment.

    · Discontinue use of anti-inflammatory drugs steroidal and non-steroidal (i.e. aspirin, ibuprofen, Medrol, predisone, advil) at least 3 days to 1 week before your treatment. With PRP, we want inflammation; this is one of the mechanisms of how PRP does its work.

    · If you are or have been on steroids within 2 weeks of treatment, we cannot treat you. Consult your physician for approval to discontinue the use of steroids and receive treatment.

    · Discontinue use of any other blood-thinning agents such as Vitamin E, Vitamin A, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s and DHA’s) etc. at least 3 days to 1 week before and after treatment to minimize bruising and bleeding.

    · We recommend avoiding alcohol, caffeine, Niacin supplement, spicy foods, and cigarettes 3 days before and after your treatment. (All of these may increase risk of bruising)

    · The day of your treatment, make sure to be well hydrated.

  • · Do NOT touch, press, rub, or manipulate the treated area (s) for at least 8 hours after your treatment. It is normal to experience: bruising, redness, itching, soreness, and swelling lasting up to 10 days following your procedure.

    · AVOID Aspirin, Motrin, Ibuprofen, Aleve (all non-steroidal and steroidal anti-inflammatory agents) Remember, we are creating inflammation to initiate the rebuilding and repair process.

    ·       If you experience discomfort or pain, you may take Tylenol or other Acetaminophen products

    ·You may apply ice as needed for comfort after the procedure, but keep in mind this also limits the necessary inflammatory process.

    · Do not use any lotions, creams, or makeup for at least 6 hours after your treatment

    · AVOID vigorous exercise, sun and heat exposure for at least 48 hours after your treatment. Use an SPF 30 or higher.

    · AVOID: Alcohol, caffeine, and cigarettes for 48 before and after your treatment

    · Smoking impairs healing times therefore increases chances of complications and reduces effectiveness of treatment.

  • · To minimize bruising, avoid the following ~7 days prior to treatment:  baby aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, multivitamins, vitamin E and D, fish oils, and alcoholic beverages, including wine. Do not take Herbal medications of any kind, for example Tumeric or Garlic.

    · If you take a prescription blood thinner continue to take this medication, but let the nurse know when you arrive prior to treatment. These are blood thinners and will cause you to bruise more easily. 

    · Note: DO NOT discontinue baby aspirin or any blood thinners prescribed by a physician before checking with THAT PHYSICIAN.

    · Certain extrinsic factors, such as alcohol consumption and smoking, diminish stem cell release. You will be advised to avoid these as to increase your likelihood for treatment satisfaction.

    · Ensure you drink at least 32 oz. of water the day prior to the blood draw and at least 16 oz. of water on the day of the blood draw. The more hydrated you are, the easier the blood draw.

    · Your appointment will need to be rescheduled if you have a bacterial or fungal infection in the treatment area.

    · If you have a respiratory infection or virus your appointment will need to be rescheduled until you are feeling better.  

    · If you have an abrasion in the desired treatment, your appointment will need to be rescheduled as the area could become infected through injection. 

    · Always inform your injector of all medications you are taking, as well as any changes in your medical history.

  • DO

    · Do ice for up to 24 hours (half hour on/half hour off). Please be aware that using ice on newly injected skin, or thin and fragile skin, can cause injury. Frostbite can occur from ice left on the skin too long.

    · Do use Arnica if bruising is visible. The bruising will dissipate over the next 7-14 days depending on your individual healing process.

    · Do make a follow-up appointment with your nurse injector – communication is so important. 

    · Do contact your nurse injector following the PRP Hair Restoration treatment if redness, swelling, tenderness, lumps or bumps appear in the treated area. 

    · Do wash your scalp the evening of the PRP treatment or next day.

    · Do avoid hair gel and hair creams, if possible. When using, use minimal amounts.

    · Do continue using a hair dryer if needed, it should be used on a low setting.

    · Do return for the next treatment in 1 month, or per the instructions of your injector.

    DON’T

    · Do not apply ice after 24 hours.

    · Do not exercise for up to 24 hours after treatment.

    · Always call your injector if you have any questions about post care.

  • ·  Avoid sun exposure and being tan, both before, during the peeling process, and after the peel.

    ·  If you get cold sores regularly, have a skin infection, or have any other skin sensitivities in past medical history, let us know.

    ·  If you have an allergy to aspirin or phenol, are pregnant or breastfeeding, you CANNOT get this procedure done.

    ·  Plan to NOT exercise vigorously for the next 3-4 days after treatment. Avoid excessive perspiration, as sweating as it may induce water blisters and excessive internal warming. This can induce post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (no hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms).

    · Do not wax 10 days before and 10 days after peel on the treatment site.

  • You will be provided with a post peel kit and specific application instructions.

    · You are encouraged to download the VI Peel app, as it will provide you with reminders of what to do and when, and will supplement the written instructions provided with your post peel kit.

    · Skin may be tight and more red than usual.

    · The peel is self-neutralizing; do not wash off or apply any other products for at least 4 hours.

    ·  Avoid use of topical products containing AHAs, Retinols, Vitamin A, tretinoin, or any type of exfoliant until the peeling process is complete.

    ·  Strictly avoid direct sun exposure for at least one week. Apply VI Peel SPF 50+

    ·  Avoid hot water, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, strenuous exercise, or excessive perspiration beginning the day of the peel and throughout the entire peel.

  • · Skin may be tight until it starts to peel.

    · Peeling will generally begin 48 – 72 hours after the peel has been administered, and last for 2 – 5 days after the skin has started peeling.

    · DO NOT PICK OR PULL THE SKIN. Allow the skin to peel at its own pace. (Premature peeling of the skin may develop into post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation)

    · Some patients may experience extreme dryness after treatment. Continue use of post care products provided and/or recommended by your provider.

    · Patients should wait until the peeling process has completed before having any other facial procedures, including: facials, microdermabrasion, laser treatments, hair removal, and cosmetic injections.

  • The degree of peeling may vary depending on the individual’s skin type and skin condition at the time of the peel. The success of the peel should not be determined by the amount of peeling, but by the end results that the peel will produce. Reasons why some patients experience decreased visible peeling:

    · Receiving any peel, or this specific peel, for the first time.

    · Severe sun damage (increased visible peeling should develop with subsequent peels).

    · Having peels regularly with a short interval between peels.

    · Frequent users of Retin-A®, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHA), tretinoin or other peeling agents prior to the peel treatment.

    · Regardless of the degree of peeling, the skin is still sloughing off at an accelerated rate, which will result in the improvement of skin.

  • · Schedule your appointment with plenty of time before a major event. The swelling after this procedure may take up to 2 weeks to resolve.

    · Inform our team if you have any history with difficulty swallowing, known allergies, take allergy medications or have ever had an anaphylactic reaction.

    · Women who are pregnant or nursing CAN NOT get this treatment.

    · To minimize bruising avoid the following ~7 days prior to treatment: baby aspirin, Aleve, Motrin, multivitamins, vitamin E and D, fish oils, alcoholic beverages. These are blood thinners and will cause you to bruise more easily.

    · Note: DO NOT discontinue baby aspirin or any blood thinners prescribed by a physician before checking with THAT PHYSICIAN.

    · Wash your face and neck area the day of your procedure, and do not apply moisturizer, sunscreen, makeup or any other products to your skin. This will help to minimize your risk of infection.

  • ·       Do not panic if you see redness, swelling or bruising that lasts a couple of weeks after your treatment. This is normal and to be expected. The more fat there is the more swelling there will be. However, if symptoms persist longer than expected, please call our office.

    ·       Ice the area carefully. Make sure to keep a cloth barrier between your skin and the ice pack to avoid potential frostbite.

    · You can apply a cool compress to the area for the first 24 hours after treatment

    · Avoid strenuous activity for the first few days after your injections.

    · Sleep with your head elevated for the next several nights (~1-6 nights) to avoid additional swelling.

    · Do NOT massage the area. This will cause further irritation.

    · Take ibuprofen or acetaminophen as instructed.

    · If your pain is not made manageable by these over-the-counter medications call Sweetwater Aesthetics.