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Donna D’Alessio, MD

What to Do Before Getting Lip Fillers

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what to do before lip fillers

Preparing for Lip Enhancement: A Comprehensive Checklist

Are you excited but a bit nervous about your first lip filler treatment? Wondering what comes next and how to prepare for it?

Lip fillers are a fantastic way to enhance your natural beauty, and with the latest advancements in filler technology, it’s all about getting that perfect, natural look. But, just like any beauty treatment, a little prep can make a big difference.

Here at Montville Medspa, we’re all about making sure you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way. That’s why we’ve put together this easy-to-follow guide. It’s packed with all the essential tips and steps you need to know before diving into your first lip filler treatment.

Why You Need a Consultation Before Getting Lip Fillers

A thorough consultation is essential before any cosmetic treatment, especially lip filler injections.

It’s a time when your provider gets to know your medical history, allergies, medications, and overall health. This step is crucial to ensure you’re a good candidate for the treatment.

During the consultation, your facial structure and skin quality are assessed. This helps in understanding what you want to achieve with the lip fillers. The focus is on crafting a treatment plan that’s tailored just for you.

This detailed process is not just about safety but also about effectiveness. It’s a chance to learn about the procedure, recovery, and aftercare.

You’ll have the opportunity to ask questions and address any concerns. The goal is to make you feel confident and ready for your lip enhancement journey.

The Importance of Your Medical History and Allergies

Disclosing your full medical history and any allergies is vital for your safety. Certain health conditions may increase risks associated with lip filler injections.

For example, autoimmune disorders, a history of cold sores or oral herpes, diseases that impair healing, and more may require special precautions.

Additionally, identifying medication or substance allergies can help avoid serious reactions. Allergy testing is sometimes performed to verify which filler ingredients are safe for each patient. 

Taking these precautions prevents complications and customizes your care. Thoroughly assessing your medical background keeps you safe while paving the way for gorgeous lips.

What to Avoid Before Lip Fillers: Medications, Supplements & More

Certain medications and supplements can increase risks like swelling, bruising, and bleeding associated with lip filler injections. For optimal results and safety, you must avoid the following before treatment:

  • Blood thinners: Drugs like warfarin, heparin, clopidogrel, or aspirin act as anticoagulants, meaning they thin the blood and increase bleeding risks. You’ll need to temporarily stop these medications under your doctor’s guidance.
  • Anti-inflammatories: Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen may cause excess swelling and bruising after lip filler treatment.
  • Herbal supplements: Substances like garlic, ginkgo biloba, ginseng, and fish oil also thin blood and slow healing. Avoid them for 1-2 weeks pre-treatment.
  • Vitamin E: High vitamin E intake can prolong bleeding risks. Limit supplements for 5-7 days before your appointment.

Be sure to disclose all medications and supplements during your consultation. We’ll review your usage and advise on any that should be stopped or avoided before lip fillers. Following our recommendations helps minimize side effects for the best possible results.

How to Prepare Your Skin Before Injections

Taking care of your skin before lip injections is crucial for quick healing and better results. Start by using gentle cleansers and hydrating products, and don’t forget to apply SPF daily as you approach your appointment.

It’s important to avoid skin treatments that might irritate your skin 1-2 weeks before your injections.

This means steering clear of chemical peels, microneedling, laser treatments, and microdermabrasion. Also, put a pause on topical retinoids, like tretinoin, as they can make your skin more sensitive.

If you’re a regular user of anti-aging treatments like Botox or dermal fillers, schedule your last session at least two weeks before your lip filler appointment. This gap allows their effects to stabilize.

By nurturing your skin gently and avoiding harsh treatments close to your lip filler procedure, you’re paving the way for a smoother experience and a quicker recovery.

Remember, your provider can give you tailored advice for your skin during your consultation.

Food and Drink Considerations Before Your Lip Filler Appointment

What you eat and drink around the time of your lip filler treatment can impact results and recovery. Here are some dietary tips:

  • Avoid alcohol: Alcohol leads to increased swelling and bruising. Stop drinking alcoholic beverages at least 24 hours before your procedure.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water in the days surrounding your appointment to support healing. Proper hydration also keeps injection sites looking supple.
  • Limit salt: Consuming salty foods can exacerbate swelling after lip fillers. Stick to low-sodium options the day before and after your injections.
  • Load up on antioxidants: Foods like leafy greens, berries, citrus fruits, and tomatoes contain beneficial antioxidants and vitamins. Eat plenty around the time of treatment to aid healing.
  • Have a light meal beforehand: Eat a healthy light meal including proteins and complex carbs before your appointment to maintain energy. Avoid large portions, which can make you feel uncomfortable during the procedure.

By following these diet tips, you promote an optimal environment for smooth injections, minimal downtime, and great results from your lip fillers.

What to Bring and How to Dress for Your Appointment

Arriving prepared helps your lip filler treatment go efficiently:

  • ID/Insurance Card: Have your ID and insurance card ready if you’re using insurance to cover a portion of treatment costs.
  • Medication List: Provide your provider an up-to-date list of all medications, vitamins, and supplements you currently take.
  • Comfortable Clothes: Dress in easily removable tops to allow good injection access without discomfort.
  • Alcohol-Free Lip Products: Bring your favorite balms or glosses without alcohol, which can sting injection sites. We’ll apply them after.
  • Cash for Touch-ups: Many patients choose to add product for small shape refinements on the same day. Bringing payment makes this quick and easy.
  • A Friend for Support: You may feel more at ease with a trusted friend there during the procedure.

Arriving with everything you need ensures an optimal experience of getting the gorgeous lips of your dreams.

Let Montville Medspa Make Your Lip Filler Experience Exceptional

We hope this guide has equipped you with everything needed for optimal safety, comfort, and results from your upcoming lip filler treatment.

At Montville Medspa, patient education and care are our foremost commitments. From your thorough consultation to achieving a naturally gorgeous enhancement, we strive to deliver an unmatched lip filler experience.

Contact us today to schedule a personalized appointment and get the lips you’ve always desired.

Donna D’Alessio, MD

Board Certified In Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation

About Donna D’Alessio, MD

Donna D’Alessio MD, is the Founder of Montville MedSpa & Pain Center in the heart of Montville, New Jersey.

She started the company to help her community look and feel their absolute best. Dr. D’Alessio is board certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation. She completed her Residency training in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. In her final year of residency training she was appointed and served as Chief Resident. Prior to that, Dr. D’Alessio completed her internship in Internal Medicine at SUNY Downstate Medical Center at Long Island College Hospital in Brooklyn. She completed her Medical Degree at St. George’s University School of Medicine in Grenada and did her Undergraduate work at The College of New Jersey.

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