What to Do Before Lip Fillers?
If you’re considering lip fillers, I’ve helped hundreds of my clients throughout the process and have the answers to all your questions.
If you prepare a little, you can improve your results. Also, preparation keeps you safe. Know these things before your appointment using this guide.
I will tell you how to choose a provider, the substances to avoid, and how to prepare your body.
I cannot simplify this any further. This is about that. This includes medical considerations, skin changes, and in-day-of-care.
By the end, you will feel confident and prepared for your lip filler procedure.
Understanding Lip Fillers

Lip fillers are dermal fillers based on hyaluronic acid. This substance naturally occurs in your body and attracts moisture to create fullness.
Common brands include Juvederm, Restylane, and VOLBELLA. Each brand has slightly different formulations that your provider will recommend based on your goals.
Many people seek lip fillers to restore lost volume that disappears with aging. Others want to correct asymmetry or reshape their lips for better proportion.
Lip fillers also smooth wrinkles around the mouth and reduce fine lines above the lips. Beyond physical changes, lip fillers boost confidence and self-esteem for those seeking fuller, more defined lips.
Steps to Take Before Lip Fillers
Proper preparation starts weeks before your appointment and includes choosing the right provider and adjusting your routine.
Step 1: Choose the Right Practitioner

Work only with a board-certified plastic surgeon, dermatologist, or licensed aesthetic provider. Check reviews and before-and-after photos. Look for natural-looking results.
Step 2: Schedule a Consultation

Discuss your goals, expectations, and desired lip shape with your provider. They’ll assess your facial features and medical history to create a customized treatment plan.
Step 3: Review Your Medical History

Be completely honest about allergies, autoimmune conditions, medications, and active oral infections. Disclose any previous filler treatments or reactions.
Step 4: Adjust Medications and Supplements

Avoid blood-thinners like Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Motrin, and Aleve for at least one week before treatment. Stop taking Omega-3, Vitamin E, garlic, and ginger. Use Tylenol if needed for pain relief.
Step 5: Hydration and Nutrition

Drink at least 2 liters of water daily in the week before treatment. Maintain a healthy, balanced diet rich in vitamins and nutrients.
Step 6: Day-of Preparation

Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face. Eat and drink before the procedure to prevent lightheadedness. Apply numbing cream if recommended.
Precautions to Consider Before Lip Fillers

Taking specific precautions reduces complications and helps you achieve the best possible results.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol
Stop smoking at least 48 hours before your appointment. Smoking dries your skin and restricts blood flow, which delays healing.
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 to 48 hours before treatment as it thins your blood and increases bruising and swelling.
Stop Certain Skincare Treatments
Skip retinol, retinoids, glycolic acid, and exfoliating agents for several days before your appointment.
These products make your skin more sensitive and can increase bleeding and bruising during injections.
Avoid Lip Hair Removal
No shaving, waxing, threading, or plucking near your lips for at least 24 hours before treatment. Hair removal irritates the skin and increases infection risk.
Bruising Prevention
Consider taking Arnica montana if you’re prone to bruising. This homeopathic supplement may reduce bruising severity when started a few days before your appointment.
Some providers also recommend bromelain to reduce inflammation.
Mental Preparation
Set realistic expectations about your results. Lip fillers create enhancement, not a complete change in appearance.
Prepare for temporary swelling or bruising immediately after treatment. Understand that results last 6 to 18 months, and you’ll need maintenance treatments.
Day of Appointment, Dos and Don’ts
Following these guidelines on the day of your appointment ensures a smooth, comfortable experience.
Do’s
- Arrive with a clean face, makeup-free: Wash your face thoroughly before leaving home. Remove all lip products, foundation, and concealer.
- Eat and drink before the procedure: Have a normal meal and stay hydrated. This prevents dizziness or nausea during treatment.
- Apply numbing cream if recommended: for comfort. Follow your provider’s instructions about timing and amount.
Don’ts
- Avoid stress or rushing: Give yourself plenty of time to arrive relaxed. Stress can make the procedure more uncomfortable.
- Don’t consume alcohol or caffeine: just before the appointment. Both can increase bleeding and make you more jittery during injections.
- Avoid taking blood-thinning medications: unless approved by your provider. If you must take prescription blood thinners, discuss this with your doctor beforehand.
Conclusion
What to do before lip fillers is important for you to know for successful, safe results. Things become easy if you know what to expect.
Comfort increases when you know what to expect before it happens. If you act on these steps, you will risk less and can recover better. Find the right provider after some time.
Your lips were meant for pampering. Ready to book your lip filler appointment? Be sure to schedule a consultation with a trained provider today and change!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long before lip fillers should I stop taking Ibuprofen?
Stop taking Ibuprofen and other blood-thinning medications at least one week before your appointment. This reduces your risk of bruising and excessive bleeding during injections.
Can I wear makeup to my lip filler appointment?
No, arrive with a completely clean, makeup-free face. Your provider needs to see your natural lip shape and skin condition clearly for proper assessment and safe treatment.
Should I eat before getting lip fillers?
Yes, eat a normal meal and stay hydrated before your appointment. Having food in your system helps prevent lightheadedness or nausea during the procedure.
How much water should I drink before lip fillers?
Drink at least 2 liters of water daily in the week leading up to your treatment. Well-hydrated skin responds better to fillers and heals faster after injections.
Can I drink alcohol the night before lip fillers?
No, avoid alcohol for at least 24 to 48 hours before your appointment. Alcohol thins your blood and significantly increases bruising and swelling after treatment.
