April 10, 2026

Subcision Pre- and Post-Treatment Instructions

Pre-Treatment Instructions

  • If you have a special event or vacation coming up, please keep in mind that you may want to schedule your treatment at least 2 weeks in advance to allow time for swelling and bruising to settle.
  • It is recommended to discontinue the use of Aspirin, Motrin, Gingko Biloba, Garlic, Flax Oil, Cod Liver Oil, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, or any other essential fatty acids at least 3 days to 1 week before treatment to minimize bruising or bleeding. Please consult with your primary provider prior to discontinuing any medications.
  • Taking Bromelain tablets beginning 3 days prior to your injections may help minimize bruising, swelling, and inflammation. This is an enzyme in pineapple, so alternatively, eating pineapple for a few days may also be helpful.
  • Avoid alcohol, caffeine, Niacin supplement, high-sodium foods, high sugar foods, refined carbohydrates, spicy foods, and cigarettes 24-48 hours before and after your treatment. These items may contribute to increased swelling or irritation.
  • If you are planning to combine your subcision with laser ONLY: Make sure you have no tan, artificial or from the sun/tanning bed, at the time of treatment. If you come with an active tan, you will be rescheduled.
  • If you are planning to combine DERMAL FILLER with your subcision treatment ONLY: Any of the following two weeks before or after your appointment, you are not a candidate for treatment and will need to reschedule:
    • Dental cleaning or any other dental procedure
    • Lesion excision or biopsy
    • Surgery of any kind
    • Tattoo, piercing, or permanent makeup
    • Illness, even a minor "cold"
    • If you had a vaccine within 4 weeks of your appointment, you are not a candidate and will need to reschedule your dermal filler appointment. Please do not schedule a vaccine for at least 4 weeks after your appointment.
    • If you have a history of oral herpes infection ("cold sores") and you are having treatment around the mouth, it is required to start an anti-viral medication (i.e. acyclovir or valacyclovir) one day prior to treatment and continue for 5 days after to reduce the risk of an outbreak. Notify the office if you need a prescription.

Post-Treatment Instructions

  • Do not wear makeup for 24 hours. You may cleanse your face and apply moisturizer with CLEAN hands. Moisturizer from a pump should be used, not from a tub.
  • No exercise for 48 hours.
  • Swelling and bruising is normal. Sleeping upright for a few days after treatment will help, as well as an antihistamine. Your provider may also recommend ice.
  • Continue taking pineapple/bromelain, and start Arnica tablets or topical cream to help a bruise fade more quickly.
  • Notify the office immediately if you experience any of the following:
    • Pain that is not treated by Tylenol and is significant. Mild discomfort and soreness are normal at the injection sites.
    • Any change in skin color, particularly paleness, blue/gray discoloration, or redness. If there are any questions, feel free to text a picture to the office number.
    • Fever, discharge such as pus, or other sign of infection.
    • Rash, particularly if it looks like a little collection of acne breakouts, even in an area that is different than the treated area.

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If you’re interested in booking this treatment or scheduling your next visit, click book now to reserve your appointment online.

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