Cheek fillers have gained immense popularity among individuals who want to achieve well-defined facial contours and add volume to their cheeks. But like any cosmetic procedure, one of the most common concerns is “how painful are cheek filler procedures?”
If you’ve been toying with the idea of cheek fillers but can’t bring yourself to go through with it due to the fear of pain, you’re not alone in your concern. A lot of patients want to know how they’ll feel during the procedure, whether they’ll be in pain afterward and what they can do to make their experience as pleasant as possible.
The reality is, although some discomfort is unavoidable, modern techniques, numbing options and professional care all make the experience far more manageable than it used to be.
In this article, we discuss everything you need to know when it comes to pain during cheek filler treatments, what you can do to minimize it and what to expect during and after your treatment.
MEDICALLY REVIEWED BY
Molly Rodriguez
15 years of experience
Pain Level During Filler Injections
If you’ve heard that cheek filler injections aren’t so pleasant, you’re likely wondering just how accurate this is. The good news is that cheek fillers are not particularly painful for most patients, though there can be some discomfort, especially if you are sensitive to injections.
For one, cheek fillers tend to be less painful than surgery, which can be more invasive. However, your experience will depend on things such as your pain tolerance, the area being treated and the type of filler being used. Some patients say the feeling is like a swift pinch or pressure, while others might feel a little more discomfort.
How painful are cheek filler treatments? On a scale of 1 to 10, most patients report mild 3s or 4s of discomfort. It’s certainly bearable, particularly compared with some other cosmetic treatments like lip fillers, which can be more painful because of how delicate the lips are.
That said, everyone has a different pain tolerance, so it’s important to remember this. Some might barely feel the injections, others a tiny bit more discomfort. The good news is there are methods to minimize the pain and make it a more pleasant course of action.
What Does Cheek Filler Injection Feel Like?
The feeling of a cheek filler injection can differ from patient to patient, but it is typically described as a quick, pinching sensation followed by a dull pressure. Patients also note momentary warmth as the filler is injected in the skin. This is a transient sensation that usually lasts a few seconds, at most and disappears as the procedure proceeds.
The first injection may cause a bit of a flinch, most describe the overall experience as manageable. In fact, most say the discomfort is milder than they anticipated. If you are worried about pain, there are several ways to manage discomfort before, during and after treatment.
Anesthesia and Numbing Options for Dermal Fillers
So, what numbing options are available for cheek fillers? Use of anesthesia for dermal fillers is one of the most effective methods to minimizing pain during fillers. A reputable medical spa like Eau Claire Body Care Center will provide a variety of numbing options to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
The topical numbing cream for fillers is the most common numbing agent for cheek fillers. The cream is used before the treatment to desensitize the skin and significantly decrease the needle’s sensation. This cream takes 15–20 minutes to fully work and will allow you to relax while the numbing agent does its thing.
Some practitioners, in addition to topical numbing creams, do injectable numbing solutions that are injected under the skin. This kind of numbing option can offer more effective and longer lasting relief, especially if you’re particularly sensitive.
For those who are very anxious about the procedure, Eau Claire Body Care Center offers these numbing treatments to help relax you and make it a completely painless treatment.
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Tips to Reduce Pain During Cheek Fillers
If you’re still looking for ways to make the cheek filler process more tolerable, here are some tips that can help minimize pain and discomfort:
- Choose the right practitioner: The professional performing your procedure needs to be highly skilled and experienced. With the right technique and even application of filler, a trained practitioner can help make this process smoother and less uncomfortable.
- Schedule at the right time: If you tend to get sensitive around certain times of your month (e.g. during your period) try to schedule time during a time where you’re not feeling particularly sensitive or particularly uncomfortable.
- Relax before the procedure: Anxiety can heighten pain. Pause and take a few deep breaths before the treatment starts. Keeping a calm mind can make the procedure smoother.
- Consider your filler choice: Some fillers are thicker and therefore cause more pressure when injecting. Others are smoother and easier to inject. Make sure to discuss with your practitioner what filler is appropriate for your desired result and comfort level.
- Aftercare matters: Proper aftercare after your treatment will allow you to heal more quickly, avoiding pain for longer than necessary.
By taking these tips into account, you can keep the pain to a minimum and make the entire process a far more pleasant experience.
Managing Discomfort After Cheek Filler Injections
Now that we’ve gotten past pain during the procedure, you might be wondering, do cheek fillers hurt afterward? The good news is that any pain afterward is usually mild and short-lived. In fact, numerous patients who undergo cheek fillers report little to no pain following their treatment.
However, some side effects are common, for example, mild swelling, redness or tenderness at the treatment site. A little bruising is possible, too, but it can easily be covered with makeup when needed.
For any discomfort after the treatment:
If you notice increased pain or odd side effects, call your practitioner or visit Eau Claire Body Care Center for follow-up care. They can assist in managing any discomfort or concerns.
Are There Side Effects Related to Pain with Cheek Fillers?
Side effects of cheek fillers are usually mild, but may include pain, bruising, swelling and redness. These side effects usually disappear after a few days.
If you experience severe pain, excessive swelling, or any other symptoms that seem unusual after your procedure, you should call your provider right away. When choosing a professional like those at Eau Claire Body Care Center, you know you are in good hands that prioritize your comfort and safety.
What’s the Best Way to Prepare for a Pain-Free Filler Session?
The key to pain-free cheek filler is preparation. There are a few things you can do ahead of your session to make sure you’re as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure.
- Consult with your practitioner: Prior to your procedure, you should be able to conduct a consultation with our practitioner to discuss your pain concerns and expectations. Our practitioner can guide you on the most appropriate numbing options and help you have a good understanding of what’s to come.
- Avoid blood-thinning medications: As much as possible, avoid blood-thinning drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen a few days leading up to the procedure to reduce the chances of bruising.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking lots of water ahead of your treatment can help keep your skin elastin up, making the treatment easier and less painful.
- Relax: Stress can amplify discomfort, so make some time to relax before your appointment. You’re in the hands of a professional who will prioritize your comfort.
Achieve a Pain-Free Cheek Filler Experience at Eau Claire Body Care Center Today!
Cheek filler treatments can undoubtedly enhance your appearance, adding volume to cheekbones and giving the face a more sculpted look, but you might be worried about the pain of the treatment. Some mild discomfort is to be expected, the pain itself is manageable, and there are several things you can do to alleviate it during and post treatment.
Having said that, with the correct numbing options, proper aftercare, and an experienced practitioner at Eau Claire Body Care Center, you can look forward to a comfortable and smooth cheek filler experience.
So, whether you’re feeling uneasy about the prospect of pain during the procedure itself or about discomfort after the procedure is finished, Eau Claire Body Care Center can provide you the best possible care, from numbing options to post-treatment care.
If you are ready to get cheek fillers but are worried about pain, feel free to call us at Eau Claire Body Care Center today. Our skilled team will walk you through each step of the process to ensure that you get the desired look with the least amount of discomfort.
