Wrinkle relaxers and dermal fillers
People often use the two names loosely, so here is the plain difference. Wrinkle relaxers are injected into muscle and act on muscle movement. Dermal fillers are gels placed under the skin in a chosen spot. They are different products with different techniques, and a provider may suggest one, both or neither.
Both are given by licensed providers where state law allows. Who may inject is set by state rules, which differ across the country. Ask any provider you speak with about their license, their training with each product and how they decide what is suitable.
What a provider checks before injecting
A licensed provider usually asks about these before suggesting any injectable:
- your health history, including nerve or muscle conditions and any autoimmune conditions
- medicines and supplements, especially blood thinners, aspirin, fish oil and similar
- allergies, including to numbing creams or past injectables
- pregnancy, plans to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
- cold sores, if fillers near the lips are discussed
- past injectables, where and when, and how you got on
- upcoming events, since bruising can show for a while
Honest answers help the provider decide what is suitable.
Getting ready for an injectables consultation
Before an injectables consultation, take ten minutes to write a few notes:
- the area or areas you want to ask about
- a list of medicines and supplements, including aspirin, fish oil and vitamin E
- allergies, including to numbing creams
- any past injectables, with dates and where you had them
- whether you are pregnant, planning to be, or breastfeeding
- events in the coming weeks, since bruising can show
Bring the notes with photo ID and your questions. A licensed provider uses them to decide what is suitable.
Questions about injectables
Who can give injectables in Oregon?
Who may inject is set by state rules, and they differ. Depending on the rules, injectors may include physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners or registered nurses, sometimes under supervision. Injectables are always given by licensed providers where state law allows. Ask any provider what license they hold and who supervises them.
What side effects are possible?
Bruising, swelling and tenderness where the injection was given are commonly discussed, and less common complications exist too. Ask the provider to explain the side effects for the specific product, how they would handle a complication, and who to contact afterward. For anything that worries you, see a doctor.
Will I be treated at the consultation?
Sometimes. Some providers can treat at the same visit if you both agree, and others prefer a separate appointment. Sending a request on this site does not book or commit you to anything. You can always take time to think after hearing the provider's view.
A licensed provider decides what is suitable for you. Send a request to begin that conversation.
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