Post-Operative Care

Itching/tingling of the areas may begin immediately and continue for up to 2 hours after the procedure. You may take Benadryl, which will cause sedation, or use ice to sooth the area. Compression garments will also help these sensations and may be used as needed. Redness and warmth will begin anywhere from immediately, to hours after injection. The color of the skin and warmth may range from person to person but most often is similar to a sunburn; bright red and warmth that can be felt through clothing. Tenderness of the area will begin after the lidocaine wears off and swelling begins, about 2-4 hours after the procedure. The most significant tenderness is within the first 48-72 hours, with most patients describing the areas as “really sore…like a strong work-out.”

Swelling will begin a few hours after the completion of the treatment and will continue for days-weeks. The majority of the swelling will be gone in the first week, but residual swelling/healing can last for 6 weeks. Bruising is possible and usually resolves in 1-2 weeks. Nodules, which feel like hard raisins under the skin, are a very normal part of the healing process. These develop 1-2 weeks after treatment and usually resolve 6-8 weeks later.

Most people are able to continue their daily activities, but we suggest planning to go home immediately after the procedure. Most people find that they are comfortable enough to return to a desk job the next day, but we suggest not making any important plans for a few days after the procedure – let your body rest until you feel back to your normal strength. Vigorous activity is not recommended for up to a 1 week.