To ensure optimal results and a smooth healing process, please follow these guidelines before your dermal filler appointment:

4 Weeks Before Treatment

• Plan Ahead: Schedule your filler appointment at least 4 weeks before any major events to allow sufficient healing time.

• Healing Time: Bruising may take 2–3 weeks to subside, and it can take that long for the filler to fully settle.

2 Weeks Before Treatment

• Avoid Anti-Inflammatory and Blood-Thinning Medications:
  Stop taking medications or supplements that may thin the blood, including:

  • Aspirin

  • Vitamin E

  • Fish oil

  • St. John’s Wort

  • Ginkgo Biloba

  • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Aleve)

• Note: Some over-the-counter and prescription medications may also thin the blood. Please consult your provider if unsure.

• Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can increase the risk of bruising and swelling. Refrain from drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment.

• Consider Arnica or Bromelain Supplements: Some patients choose to take Arnica or Bromelain supplements 1 day before the procedure to reduce bruising and swelling. These can be purchased at health food stores or online.

After your dermal filler treatment, please follow these instructions to ensure smooth healing and optimal results:

Immediately After Treatment

• Ice Application: Apply ice packs to the treated area for up to 24 hours to help reduce swelling and discomfort. Avoid leaving ice on for extended periods—apply in short intervals.

• Note: Topical numbing cream or lidocaine may provide some numbing effects during and after treatment, so you may not be able to recognize if the ice is being left in place too long. Be mindful of time when applying ice.

• Avoid Strenuous Activity: Refrain from vigorous exercise or activities that may cause excessive heat for 24 hours after treatment.

• Do Not Massage the Treated Area: Avoid massaging, rubbing, or applying pressure to the treated area for at least 24 hours.

Swelling & Bruising

• Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are common and should subside over time.

  • Arnica gel can be applied to the treated area to help with bruising, but avoid rubbing or massaging the area while applying the gel.

Pain Management

• For mild discomfort, Tylenol (acetaminophen) is safe to use. Avoid ibuprofen, aspirin, or other blood-thinning medications for pain relief.

Avoid Further Procedures

• Wait 2–4 weeks before scheduling any laser treatments, neurotoxin injections (e.g., Botox), facials, or dental procedures in the treated areas.

Sleeping Position

• For the first few nights, avoid sleeping directly on the treated areas until swelling has resolved.

Bromelain & Arnica Supplements

• You may consider continuing Bromelain and Arnica supplements for symptomatic relief of swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following your treatment.

The final results of your dermal filler may take 2–3 weeks to fully settle.

Contact our office immediately if you experience severe pain, excessive swelling, or signs of infection (redness, warmth, fever).