Bruising after injectables - what can you expect?
Bruising on the face after a medical procedure is common, especially after medical procedures that break skin such as most medical aesthetics and surgery.
While bruising is a known and common side effect it is typical for patients to feel unsure and a panicky if it does happen to you.
So here’s what you can expect in terms of the healing process:
What to Expect in the Coming Days:
Day 1–2:
- Bruise appears dark red, blue, or purple. Rarely, it may simply be present as a lump under the skin without any discolouration.
- Swelling and tenderness are usually at their maximum at this stage.
- You may feel soreness or mild discomfort on touching this area or moving the part affected.
Day 3–5:
- If it was not bruised from the beginning, it may “suddenly” appear bruised in the first 2-4 days after injury. This is common and not a reason to panic, and may be dark purple or even blue-black. If unsure, do reach out to your doctor for a review appointment.
- If the bruise was visible, colour begins to change—blue and purple hues start fading to green or yellow.
- Swelling should start going down.
- Tenderness improves.
Day 6–10:
- Bruise gets lighter day by day, shifting to yellow or brown.
- It may look patchy or mottled.
- Most of the swelling and discomfort is gone.
Day 10–14:
- Bruise should be nearly gone or very faint.
- Full healing can take up to 2-3 weeks, depending on the depth of the bruise and your personal healing rate.
- It should continue to improve day by day until cleared.
How to Speed Up Healing:
- Cold compresses (first 24–48 hours): Reduces swelling and limits bruise size.
- Warm compresses (after 48 hours): Helps clear away old blood under the skin.
- Arnica gel or vitamin K cream: May reduce bruising. (Also available in Australia, Hirudoid cream from the chemist, to massage in gently).
- Avoid anti inflammatory medication for the first 24 hours (like ibuprofen or aspirin): They can worsen bruising unless advised by your doctor.
- Sleep with your head elevated: Reduces facial swelling.
When to contact your doctor for a review:
- If the bruise becomes increasingly painful, hard, or swollen especially in the first 24 hours post treatment.
- If you notice signs of infection (warmth, pus, redness spreading), usually 3-5 days post treatment.
- If bruising is spreading or you bruise very easily (could suggest a bleeding issue).
Bruising is among the most common side effect with any penetrative procedure to the face and body, so it is important to plan accordingly especially if you need to look your best for important events as we can never guarantee you will not bruise.