Lip Filler Preparation & Aftercare in Edmonton
Preparing for Your Lip Filler Appointment
Taking a few simple steps before your lip fillers appointment can minimise bruising and swelling and ensure a smooth recovery. Here’s how to get ready:
One Week Before
Stop taking blood‑thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve) unless directed otherwise by your physician. These drugs thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising.
Avoid supplements that can thin the blood or increase bruising, including St. John’s Wort, Gingko biloba, primrose oil, garlic, ginseng and vitamin E.
Two Days Before
Discontinue topical products that may irritate your skin, such as tretinoin (Retin‑A), retinoids, glycolic acid or other strong “anti‑aging” products around the mouth.
Refrain from waxing, bleaching, tweezing or using depilatory creams on the area to be treated.
Consider taking Arnica montana tablets to help reduce bruising (this is optional but may speed healing).
24 Hours Before
Do not drink alcohol for 24 hours before your injections. Alcohol acts as a blood thinner and can worsen swelling and bruising.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
General Considerations
If you’re prone to cold sores (herpes simplex), notify your provider. They may prescribe antiviral medication to reduce the risk of an outbreak.
Avoid dermal fillers if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have severe allergies to any ingredients or have certain neurological disorders. Always discuss your medical history with your injector.
The Day of Treatment
Arrive with a clean face free of makeup or lip balm.
A topical numbing cream will be applied to keep you comfortable. In some cases a dental block or nitrous oxide may also be offered.
Plan to spend about 20–30 minutes at the clinic.
What Happens During the Procedure?
Lip filler injections are quick and precise. After cleaning and numbing the area, your provider will use a fine needle or flexible cannula to place tiny amounts of hyaluronic acid filler into strategic points along your lip border and body. You may feel gentle pressure or pinching, but discomfort is typically minimal thanks to the numbing cream and lidocaine in the filler itself.
Design and technique
The injector may gently massage your lips to evenly distribute the product and refine your shape. At Albany, we discuss lip‑design options like the classic Cupid’s bow, cherry or Russian technique to ensure your lips complement your face.
Duration
The injection portion usually takes 10–15 minutes, and you can watch your new lips emerge in real time.
Aftercare
After your injections, we’ll review aftercare instructions and schedule any follow‑up appointments. You can return to work or social activities immediately, although you may experience temporary swelling or bruising.
Aftercare: Caring for Your Lips
Proper aftercare helps minimise side‑effects and maximise your results. Follow these guidelines for the first few days after treatment:
The First 24–48 Hours
Ice gently: Apply a cold pack wrapped in a clean cloth for a few minutes at a time to reduce swelling and discomfort. Do not place ice directly on the lips.
Avoid pressure
Do not touch, massage or pucker your lips unnecessarily. Kissing, using a straw or vigorous lip movements can disturb the filler and increase infection risk. Wait at least 24 hours before wearing lipstick or lip balm.
Skip strenuous activity
Avoid intense exercise, heavy lifting and hot yoga for two days. Increased blood flow can worsen swelling and bruising.
Say no to alcohol and smoking
Alcohol and nicotine thin the blood and may lead to more bruising. Avoid them for at least 24–48 hours.
Limit salt
Sodium can increase swelling. Focus on hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables instead of salty snacks.
Protect from heat
Stay out of saunas, hot tubs and steam rooms for 48 hours. Excessive heat dilates blood vessels and can lead to more swelling.
The First Week
Stay hydrated: Hyaluronic acid fillers bind with water, so drinking plenty of water helps the filler integrate and prolongs your results.
Avoid dental work
Postpone dental cleanings or invasive dental procedures for two weeks to reduce the risk of infection.
Delay air travel
Cabin pressure can intensify swelling and dehydration; wait a week before flying when you can.
Monitor side‑effects
Mild lumps, tenderness or bruising are normal and will soften over several days. If you experience severe pain, pale or dark patches on your lips or skin, fever or signs of infection, contact our office immediately.
Once swelling subsides (usually within a week), you’ll enjoy softer, fuller lips. To maintain your results, schedule touch‑ups every 6–12 months or as recommended by your injector.
Choosing The Right Technique For Recovery
If you’re looking to minimize downtime, consider opting for a cannula technique instead of traditional methods. This approach typically results in less bruising and swelling, allowing you to enjoy your enhanced look with a quicker recovery time. It’s important to note that certain techniques that enhance the volume significantly, such as the Russian style enhancement, may result in more swelling and slightly longer downtime due to the precise, layered application of the product.
Request Your Appointment Today
Request your consultation today and discover how our treatment can refresh your appearance.
Call us at (587) 520‑2835 or use our online booking form to schedule an appointment.
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