How to Prepare for Dermal Filler Treatments
Good preparation reduces the risk of bruising and swelling, makes the appointment more comfortable and helps the result settle smoothly. Most steps are simple, but they start several days before the treatment. Here is a practical timeline.
Why Preparation Matters
Some medications, supplements and habits increase bleeding and bruising. Skin irritation or an active infection can force the treatment to be postponed. And a clear discussion of your goals helps the injector choose the right product and plan.
What to Do One Week Before Treatment
- If your physician agrees, stop supplements that can increase bleeding, such as fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo or garlic supplements.
- Ask your injector or physician before stopping anti-inflammatory drugs. Never stop a prescribed anticoagulant without medical advice.
- Avoid peels, laser treatments and aggressive exfoliation on the area.
- If you have a history of cold sores and are having lip filler, ask whether preventive treatment is recommended.
- Avoid scheduling dental work in the two weeks before or after.
What to Avoid 48 Hours Before the Appointment
- Alcohol, which increases bruising.
- Retinoids and exfoliating acids on the treated area.
- Waxing or hair removal treatments on the face.
- Prolonged sun exposure or tanning.
What to Do the Day Before
- Drink plenty of water.
- Get a good night’s sleep.
- Prepare your questions and the list of your medications and supplements.
How to Prepare on the Day of Treatment
- Arrive with a clean face, without makeup if possible.
- Eat a light meal before the appointment to avoid feeling light-headed.
- Avoid intense exercise before the appointment.
- Arrive a few minutes early to complete the forms calmly.
Things to Bring With You
- The list of your medications, supplements and allergies.
- Information about any previous fillers or aesthetic treatments, including the product names if you know them.
- Photos showing the result you would like, if useful.
- A hat or sunglasses if you prefer to be discreet afterwards.
What to Discuss With Your Provider
Discuss your goals, your medical history, the proposed product, the expected result, recovery and follow-up. In Canada, who may inject fillers depends on the province and the professional college. See our list of questions to ask during a consultation.
What Happens If You Don’t Follow Preparation Guidelines?
The treatment may be postponed, for example in case of an active infection or a cold sore. Otherwise, the risk of bruising and swelling increases, and recovery may take longer.
How Preparation Affects Recovery
Patients who follow preparation instructions generally experience less bruising and swelling and recover faster. See our guide on dermal filler recovery.
Preparing Mentally and Emotionally
Expect the result to look fuller at first because of swelling, and to settle over about two weeks. Plan the treatment at least two weeks before an important event. Clinics can find all products in our dermal fillers category.
References
Advanced Dermatology. (n.d.). What is the best way to prepare for filler injections? Advanced Dermatology. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://advanceddermatologymd.com/blog/what-is-the-best-way-to-prepare-for-filler-injections
Columbia Laser Skin Center. (n.d.). Preparing for dermal filler treatment: What to know and how to get ready. Columbia Laser Skin Center. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://columbialaserskincenter.com/preparing-for-dermal-filler-treatment-what-to-know-and-how-to-get-ready/
Zimm, J. (n.d.). Preparation for filler injections. Dr. Joshua Zimm Facial Plastic Surgery. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.drjoshuazimm.com/blog-preparation-for-filler-injections/
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (n.d.). Injectable fillers. ASPS. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/fillersCleveland Clinic. (2022, May 25). Dermal fillers: What to know. Cleveland Clinic. Retrieved August 25, 2025, from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21770-dermal-fillers
