Preparation Guide
How to Prepare for Dermal Fillers
Expert guidance from Dr. Alexander Landfield, Board-Certified Neurologist
Smart preparation before your dermal filler appointment minimizes bruising and helps you achieve the most natural, beautiful results. Follow this neurologist-approved guide.
1–2 Weeks Before Your Appointment
- 1Stop blood-thinning supplements 7 days before: fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, garlic supplements
- 2Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen for 7 days before (use Tylenol if needed)
- 3Start arnica supplements 3–5 days before to minimize bruising (optional but recommended)
- 4Discuss any prescription blood thinners with Dr. Landfield before your appointment
- 5If you have a history of cold sores and are getting lip filler, request a Valtrex prescription
The Day Before
- Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before your appointment
- Stay well-hydrated — HA fillers work best when your body is hydrated
- Plan your social calendar — you may have bruising or swelling for up to 7–14 days
- Gather reference photos of your desired results to discuss with your clinician
Day of Treatment
- 1Arrive with a clean face — minimal or no makeup
- 2Your clinician will discuss goals, take photos, and mark injection points
- 3Numbing cream or dental nerve blocks may be used for comfort (especially for lip filler)
- 4Treatment takes 15–45 minutes depending on the areas treated
- 5You can bring a friend for moral support if it's your first time
What to Bring
- Reference photos of your desired results
- List of medications and supplements
- Questions about specific filler products and areas
What to Wear
- Comfortable clothing — the procedure is quick
- Come with minimal makeup on the treatment area
- Bring sunglasses and a hat if you're concerned about post-treatment appearance
Frequently Asked Questions
Which filler is best for lips?
For lip enhancement, hyaluronic acid fillers from the Juvederm and Restylane families are most commonly used. Products like Juvederm Ultra XC and Restylane Kysse are specifically designed for lips — they provide natural movement and a soft, hydrated result. During your consultation, your clinician will recommend the optimal product based on your lip anatomy and desired outcome.
How painful are lip filler injections?
Most modern fillers contain lidocaine (a built-in numbing agent) that activates as the filler is injected. Additionally, dental nerve blocks or topical numbing cream can be applied before treatment. Most patients rate lip filler discomfort as 3–5 out of 10. The entire lip injection process takes about 15–20 minutes.
How do I avoid bruising from fillers?
Stop blood thinners (fish oil, vitamin E, aspirin, ibuprofen) 7 days before. Avoid alcohol 24 hours before. Start arnica supplements 3–5 days before. After treatment, apply cold compresses and continue arnica. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours. Even with precautions, some bruising is common — it typically resolves within 7–14 days.
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