What to Do Before and After Dermal Filler Appointments

What To Do Before Dermal Fillers Appointment

Three Days Before Treatment

  • Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet to support skin recovery.
  • Reduce salt intake to minimize potential swelling after treatment.
  • Avoid harsh skincare products, including retinoids, acids (AHAs, BHAs), benzoyl peroxide, and exfoliants, as they may increase skin sensitivity.

The Day Before Treatment

  • Get a good night’s sleep to allow your skin to be in its best condition.
  • Avoid any intense workouts that could increase circulation and swelling.
  • Do not schedule dental work, vaccinations, or facial treatments such as chemical peels or laser procedures, as they can interfere with healing.

The Day of Treatment

  • Arrive with clean skin—remove all makeup, lotions, and sunscreen before your appointment.
  • Wear comfortable clothing if treating areas other than the face, ensuring nothing will rub against the skin post-treatment.
  • Eat a light meal before your appointment to avoid lightheadedness.
  • Plan for some downtime post-treatment, as mild swelling and bruising are common.
  • If you have any new medications, health conditions, or concerns, inform your provider before treatment begins.

Changes to Your Medical History

  • If you have had any recent changes to your health, including a new diagnosis, pregnancy, or new medications, it is important to inform your provider before your treatment. Some medical conditions and medications may not be compatible with dermal fillers. In certain cases, rescheduling may be necessary to ensure your safety and the best possible results.

Cold Sore Prevention

  • If you have a history of HSV-1 or HSV-2, taking an antiviral medication 24-48 hours before treatment can help prevent an outbreak in the treated area. It is recommended to continue the medication for three to five days after treatment to minimize any risks. If you need a prescription, consult your primary care provider before your appointment.

    Your health and safety are our top priorities. If you have any concerns or questions, reach out to us before your session.

What To Do After Dermal Fillers Appointment

First 24 Hours

  • Avoid direct heat and sweating, including steam rooms, saunas, and exercise.
  • Do not massage, touch, or manipulate the treated area.
  • Use ice packs on the treated area for 15 minutes every hour during the first 12 hours to reduce swelling.
  • Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach to prevent the product from shifting. Sleep on your back with your head elevated using pillows for support.

First 72 Hours

  • Swelling, bruising, tenderness, and numbness may occur—this is normal.
  • If swelling occurs, continue sleeping with your head elevated for 2-3 days.
  • Gently massage the area with Vaseline® or Aquaphor® several times per day, as directed by your provider.
  • If experiencing discomfort, you may take acetaminophen (Tylenol®) but avoid NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin.
  • If bruising occurs, Arnica gel can be applied, and Arnica tablets may help speed up healing (5 tablets, three times per day).

First Two Weeks

  • Avoid facials, aggressive exfoliation, scrubbing, or massaging the treated area.
  • Lumps, bumps, or slight asymmetry may be visible as the filler settles—this is normal.
  • Bruising may darken before healing within 3-7 days.
  • Final results are typically visible 14 days after treatment, when swelling fully subsides.

Long-Term Aftercare & Maintenance

  • Avoid dental work for 30 days after filler injections.
  • Wait at least four weeks before undergoing laser treatments or other cosmetic procedures.
  • Dermal fillers are long-lasting but not permanent. Results typically last 3-12 months, depending on the area treated and individual metabolism.
  • Using a medical-grade skincare system can help enhance and maintain results—ask your provider for recommendations.

What to Expect in Your Treatment Timeline

Immediately After Treatment: Mild swelling, bruising, and tenderness may occur. Instant volume, lift, and hydration will be visible.

Up to Two Weeks: Some swelling and minor lumps may persist but will settle naturally. Bruises may appear more prominent before fading.

At 14 Days: The filler has fully settled, and the final results are visible. This is the best time for any necessary touch-ups.

3-12 Months After Treatment: The filler is gradually metabolized. Treatments every 3-12 months are recommended for maintenance.

With Subsequent Treatments: Facial contours are enhanced while maintaining a natural look.Wrinkles and volume loss are corrected, improving overall facial balance.

Managing Common Side Effects

Swelling & Discomfort: Apply a cool compress intermittently for 1-2 hours (avoid direct skin contact with ice). Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling.

Bruising: Small bruises may appear and typically resolve within 3-7 days. Continue avoiding alcohol until the bruising fades. Makeup can be used to cover bruising if needed.

Itching or Irritation: Itchiness may result from alcohol prep before injections. Apply hydrocortisone 1% mixed with Vaseline® or Aquaphor® up to three times daily. Take an antihistamine like Benadryl®, Allegra®, or Claritin® if needed.

Lumps or Bumps: Apply slight pressure for a few seconds and gently massage with Vaseline® or Aquaphor®.

When to Seek Medical Attention: While dermal fillers are generally safe, it’s important to recognize potential complications. Contact your provider immediately if you experience:

  • Unusual or continuous pain or intense pressure in the injected area.
  • Paleness or discoloration around the treated area.
  • Bruising or redness that spreads instead of healing normally.
  • If you are unable to reach us, visit the nearest urgent care center for evaluation.