How to Prepare for your Sculptra or Dermal Filler Appointment
Proper preparation before your dermal filler or Sculptra appointment is essential for both safety and results. Taking a few simple steps ahead of time helps minimize side effects, reduce bruising, and ensure your treatment experience is as smooth as possible.
1. Schedule Wisely
Plan your treatment when you don’t have major events coming up. While most people experience minimal downtime, mild swelling or bruising can occur. Schedule your appointment at least 2–4 weeks before any significant social events, photos, or travel to allow your results to fully settle.
2. Expect Bruising
Bruising is a common and completely normal part of the healing process after filler or Sculptra. Even with precise technique, tiny blood vessels beneath the skin may be disrupted during treatment.
Some basic instructions to reduce the likelihood or severity of bruising include:
Avoid alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E for 3–5 days before your appointment (unless prescribed by your physician).
Use cold compresses after treatment as directed.
Read our more comprehensive Bruise Prevention Guide for detailed instructions and supplement recommendations.
3. Absolutely No Vaccines, Dental Work, or Dental Cleanings 1 Month Before or After Treatment
This guideline is non-negotiable. Do not receive any vaccines, dental cleanings, or dental procedures (including fillings, whitening, or other dental work) within one month before or after your dermal filler or Sculptra appointment.
Vaccines and dental work can temporarily stimulate your immune system or introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of inflammation, infection, or filler-related complications such as nodules or delayed swelling.
If you have any upcoming dental or medical appointments, please plan your filler and Sculptra treatments around them accordingly.
4. Pause any Skincare with “Active” Ingredients
Discontinue the use of products containing retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or exfoliating scrubs for 2–3 days before and after treatment. These ingredients can increase skin sensitivity and the risk of irritation.
5. Hydrate and Support Healthy Skin
Well-hydrated skin responds better to dermal filler and Sculptra. Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment, maintain a balanced diet, and avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol. Healthy tissue allows for smoother product placement and more natural results.
6. Arrive with Clean Skin
Please come to your appointment with a clean face—no makeup or sunscreen. This helps maintain a clean environment and minimizes the risk of infection. We will thoroughly cleanse the area before treatment, but arriving makeup-free is the best way to start.
