What To Do Before Dermal Filler

Dermal fillers are a safe and effective way way to enhance facial contours, restore lost volume, plump skin, reduce frown lines and smooth out wrinkles. While the procedure itself is minimally invasive and generally low-risk, there are several key steps you can take beforehand to ensure optimal results and minimize potential side effects.

By preparing properly, you’ll not only feel more confident but will also help ensure the best possible outcome from your treatment.

What to do before dermal filler

One of the most common side effects after injectable dermal fillers is mild bruising, which can be reduced by taking a few precautions in the days leading up to your appointment. To minimize the risk of bruising, it’s important to avoid substances that thin the blood, as they can increase your susceptibility to bruising or bleeding at the injection sites. We recommend you stop taking the following at least 7 days before your treatment:

• NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and voltaren, which are commonly used for pain and inflammation relief.
• Aspirin, unless prescribed by your doctor for a medical condition.
• Fish oil supplements, which are known for their blood-thinning properties.
• Evening primrose oil, as well as other herbal supplements such as gingko, ginseng, turmeric, and garlic, which also have mild anticoagulant effects.

Be sure to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as alcohol can also increase bruising and bleeding. Additionally, we suggest avoiding green tea or large amounts of caffeine, as they may have a similar effect.

If you’re taking any prescription blood thinners such as warfarin or Plavix for a medical condition like stroke prevention, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), or other heart conditions, do not stop taking them. It’s essential to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen. If you’re unsure, feel free to reach out to us for guidance.

Tell Us About Any Illness or Health Concerns

Your health plays a critical role in how well your body responds to dermal fillers. If you’re feeling under the weather or have experienced any signs of illness leading up to your treatment, it’s important to let us know. This includes symptoms such as:

• Cold, flu, or cough
• Sore throat or sinus infections
• Bladder infections or urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Fever or chills
• Any active skin infection near the treatment area

Having an illness or infection can increase the risk of complications, and we may need to reschedule your appointment for when you’re feeling better. Dermal fillers are best administered when your immune system is strong, as this helps ensure optimal healing and reduces the risk of infection at the injection sites.

Also, let your physician know if you’ve recently started any new medications, experienced any allergic reactions, or are undergoing any other medical treatments. Your medical history may impact how we proceed with your filler treatment.

Timing with Other Facial Treatments and Procedures

Your overall health is essential in determining how well your body responds to dermal fillers, ensuring both safety and effectiveness. If you’re feeling unwell or have experienced any symptoms of illness in the days leading up to your treatment, it’s crucial to inform us. Being transparent about any recent health issues allows us to make the best decisions for your care and avoid any unnecessary risks. Please let us know if you are experiencing, or have recently experienced, symptoms including but not limited to:

• Cold, flu, or persistent cough
• Sore throat or sinus infections, which could indicate respiratory issues
• Bladder infections or urinary tract infections (UTIs), affecting overall immune response
• Fever, chills, or any signs of a systemic infection
• Any active skin infection or irritation near the planned treatment area

Having any kind of illness or infection can increase the risk of complications during and after your dermal filler procedure. In some cases, the immune response activated by an infection may heighten the risk of inflammation or infection at the injection sites. Therefore, we may need to reschedule your appointment until you are fully recovered and feeling healthy, ensuring your body is prepared to heal optimally after treatment.

In addition, please inform us if you’ve recently started any new medications, experienced any allergic reactions, or are undergoing other medical treatments. Certain medications, such as those affecting blood clotting, immune function, or inflammatory response, can impact how we proceed with your filler treatment and may require special precautions. Similarly, a history of allergic reactions or sensitivity to specific substances can help us tailor your treatment plan to avoid potential side effects and enhance your comfort and safety.

Remember, dermal fillers are most effective when administered under ideal health conditions. A strong immune system aids in healing and reduces the chances of infection or other complications, making your experience both safer and more satisfactory. We’re here to support you in achieving the best possible results, so don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns about your upcoming treatment.

Minimal or No Makeup for the Day of Treatment

On the day of your filler treatment, we suggest arriving with minimal or no makeup, especially around the areas that will be treated. While we understand that you may wear makeup daily, it’s important to allow the skin to be as clean and free of products as possible for several reasons:

• Cleansing the skin: Before your treatment, we will thoroughly cleanse your face to ensure that no dirt, oil, or bacteria are present. This step is vital for reducing the risk of infection at the injection sites. Arriving with minimal makeup will speed up this process and reduce any irritation that may occur from makeup removal.
• Hygiene and safety: The area being treated must be completely sterile. Even a small amount of makeup residue can introduce bacteria to the skin, increasing the risk of complications such as infection or inflammation.
• Post-treatment instructions: After your filler treatment, you will need to avoid applying makeup to the treated areas for at least 12-24 hours. This helps protect your skin as it heals and ensures that the filler settles properly.

If you’re unsure whether you should wear makeup or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to ask. We’re here to make your experience as smooth as possible.

Getting dermal fillers can feel like a big step, but understanding the process and knowing how to prepare can make a world of difference.

By following these simple yet important steps before your appointment, you’re ensuring that you’ll have the best possible experience and outcome. While it’s natural to feel a bit anxious before a cosmetic procedure, rest assured that dermal fillers are a safe and effective way to enhance your appearance.

If you have any concerns or questions, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Just remember—preparation is key to feeling confident, beautiful, and ready to enjoy your new look!