Dermal & Bio Filler Pre-Care Instructions
Proper preparation helps minimize bruising, swelling, and complications while optimizing your results.
2 Weeks Before Treatment
- Avoid:
- Dental work or oral surgery
- Vaccinations
- Other facial aesthetic treatments (unless approved)
- Schedule your appointment at least 2-3 weeks before any special event
7 Days Before Treatment
Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (unless medically necessary and prescribed):
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Fish oil / Omega-3
- Vitamin E
- Ginkgo biloba
- Ginseng
- Garlic supplements
- St. John’s Wort
These increase the risk of bruising and swelling.
3–5 Days Before Treatment
- Avoid alcohol
- Avoid waxing, threading, bleaching, or depilatory creams in the treatment area
- Avoid facials, chemical peels, or strong exfoliation
24 Hours Before Treatment
- Avoid excessive salt intake (helps reduce swelling)
- Stay well hydrated
The Day of Your Appointment
- Arrive with clean skin (no makeup if possible)
- Eat a normal meal to prevent lightheadedness
- You may take Tylenol if needed (avoid NSAIDs)
- Inform your provider if you have:
- History of cold sores (you may need antiviral prophylaxis for lip filler)
- Any infection or illness
- Recent dental work
- Allergies to lidocaine
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
Optional Bruise Prevention
Start 2–3 days before (if appropriate):
Dermal & Bio Filler Post-Care Instructions
Immediately After Treatment
- Expect:
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Redness
- Possible bruising
**These are normal and temporary**
- Apply ice packs (10–15 minutes at a time) for the first 24 hours
- Keep the head elevated when resting
For the First 24 Hours
Avoid:
- Touching, pressing, or massaging the area (unless instructed)
- Makeup (if possible for the first 12–24 hours
- Strenuous exercise
- Alcohol
- Excessive heat (sauna, steam room, hot showers)
- Kissing or pressure on treated lips
For the First 48 Hours
- Sleep on your back with your head elevated
- Avoid high-sodium foods to reduce swelling
- Continue gentle icing if needed
For the First 2 Weeks
Avoid:
- Facials
- Massage in the treated area
- Laser treatments
- Chemical peels
- Microneedling
- Dental procedures
What to Avoid Until Swelling Resolves
- Hats or tight headwear (for temple/forehead filler)
- Straws (after lip filler – first 72 hours)
- Vigorous workouts
Normal Side Effects
- Mild asymmetry during the swelling phase
- Firmness or small lumps (usually soften within 1–2 weeks)
- Bruising
When to Contact Your Provider Immediately (Emergency Signs)
- Severe or increasing pain
- Skin that turns pale, white, gray, or dusky
- Mottled or net-like discoloration
- Blistering
- Vision changes
These may indicate a vascular complication and require urgent treatment.
Final Result Timeline
- Initial swelling improves in 3–7 days
- Results settle in 2 weeks
Bio Filler–Specific Notes (PRF / Plasma Gel)
- Swelling may last slightly longer than HA fillers
- Multiple sessions may be required for optimal collagen stimulation
- Results improve gradually as collagen forms
Pro Tip for Best Outcomes
Stay well hydrated and avoid intense workouts for a few days to reduce inflammation and prolong your results.