After you have received an ArteSense treatment, some pain, swelling, itching or redness at the site of injection may occur.  If the pain is uncomfortable, use acetaminophen (Tylenol^®, Atasol^®) following the directions on the bottle.  The use of ASA (Aspirin^®) should be avoided as it may increase bruising at the site of injection.  Cold compresses or ice packs can also be used to reduce any swelling, itching or discomfort.  Redness usually lasts for 1 – 2 days although it may last longer in some patients.

If your doctor has placed a piece of adhesive tape over the implant site, try to leave it in place at least overnight.  The tape is used to minimize movement of your facial muscles to avoid dislocation of the implant.  If no adhesive tape has been used, it is important that the amount of movement in the area injected be immobilized as much as possible for the next 24 hours (i.e. minimize smoking and/or drinking from a straw).  Your new implant requires this amount of time to settle, and for the fibroplasias to start taking effect.

The implant may feel somewhat hard at first, however, it will soften over time as your body produces its own collagen and new connective tissue.

Keep in mind that the implant acts by stimulating your body to produce new collagen and connective tissue to surround each microsphere.  The complete effect of the implant may not be apparent for up to three months.  It is possible that after the swelling has gone down, your wrinkles may temporarily return after a few weeks.  This is a normal occurrence, and they will start to disappear again over the next few months.

For more information, please contact your physician or call our customer service support at 1-877-278-3265.