How to Prepare for Lip Filler: DOs & DON’Ts Before & After the Procedure

Lip filler treatments are an excellent way to enhance your pout or subtly tweak the appearance of your lips. To achieve the best results, here’s a quick guide to help you prepare and recover effectively.

BEFORE YOUR LIP FILLER APPOINTMENT

1. One Week Before the Procedure:
   • Avoid blood-thinning medications, such as:
     • Aspirin
     • Ibuprofen (Motrin, Aleve)
   • Refrain from taking supplements like:
     • Vitamin E
     • Ginkgo biloba
     • Evening primrose oil
     • Garlic
     • St. John’s Wort
     • Ginseng
2. Two Days Before the Procedure:
   • Avoid topical products, including:
     • Tretinoin (Retin-A)
     • Retinol or Retinoids
     • Glycolic acid
     • Anti-aging products
   • Refrain from:
     • Waxing, bleaching, tweezing, or hair removal creams on the treatment area.

3. Optional Preparation:
   • Start taking Arnica supplements to reduce potential bruising.
4. 24 Hours Before the Procedure:
   • Do not consume alcohol.
5. Important Notes:
   • Cold Sores: If you are prone to cold sores, inform your practitioner, as the procedure may trigger a flare-up.
   • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Avoid dermal fillers if pregnant or breastfeeding.
   • Allergies/Neurological Disorders: Discuss any allergies or conditions with your practitioner during the pre-treatment consultation.

AFTER YOUR LIP FILLER PROCEDURE

1. First Hour Post-Treatment:
   • Apply an ice pack or topical Arnica to minimize bruising and swelling.
   • Take Arnica or Bromelain tablets to support healing.
   • Use paracetamol if you experience discomfort.
   • Avoid touching, massaging, or picking at the injection site. Symptoms like redness and swelling usually subside within a few hours to a few days. Contact your injector if they persist beyond 3 days.
2. Next 6–10 Hours:
   • To reduce swelling, consider taking:
     • Daytime antihistamines (Zyrtec or Claritin).
     • Nighttime antihistamines (Benadryl).
   • Avoid intense heat, such as:
     • Sunbathing
     • Tanning
     • Saunas or hot tubs
     • Hot wax treatments
   • If a bump appears, gently massage the area as instructed. Firmness will typically resolve within 1–2 weeks.
   • Sunscreen and makeup can be applied carefully, along with a gentle cleanser.
3. Preventing Bruising Post-Treatment:
   • Avoid alcohol and strenuous exercise.
   • Take Arnica or Bromelain, eat fresh pineapple, and continue applying ice.
4. When to Contact Your Injector:
   • Fever and chills.
   • Discolored blotches in untreated areas.
   • Blanching of injected areas.
   • Redness, warmth, or severe/increasing pain.
   • Areas that feel cold to the touch.

BONUS TIP:

• Stay Hydrated! Fillers absorb water, so drinking plenty of water can enhance your results.

If you’re ready to enhance your lips with fillers and are located in West Yorkshire, contact us to schedule your consultation!