Preparing for Your First Filler Appointment: A Complete Guide

So you've done the research, picked your injector, and booked the appointment. Now what?

If you're feeling a mix of excitement and nerves, that's completely normal. Your first filler appointment is a big step, and knowing what to expect can make the whole experience so much smoother.

I've walked hundreds of first-timers through this process at Aesthetic Touch by Raya, and I want to share everything I wish someone had told me before my own first experience. Consider this your no-nonsense guide to showing up prepared and leaving happy.

Before Your Appointment

A Week Out

Start prepping about a week before your appointment. Nothing crazy — just a few small adjustments:

Stop blood thinners if you can. Things like aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), fish oil, and vitamin E can increase bruising. If you take any of these regularly, check with your doctor before stopping. Tylenol is fine to take if you need a pain reliever.

Cut back on alcohol. I know, not what you want to hear. But alcohol thins your blood too, which means more potential for bruising. Try to avoid it for at least 2 to 3 days before your appointment. A full week is even better if you can manage it.

Avoid intense dental work. If you're getting lip filler specifically, try not to schedule a dental cleaning or procedure right before. Your lips will thank you.

The Day Before

Hydrate. Drink plenty of water. Hyaluronic acid (what most fillers are made of) loves water, and well-hydrated skin responds better to treatment.

Skip the wine. One more time for the people in the back — no alcohol the night before.

Get a good night's sleep. You'll feel better, look better, and be more relaxed for your appointment.

The Day Of

Come with a clean face. No makeup on the areas being treated. If you're coming straight from work or wherever, that's fine — we can clean your face here, but it saves time if you come fresh-faced.

Eat something. Don't show up on an empty stomach. Having some food in you helps you feel more comfortable and reduces any chance of lightheadedness.

Wear something comfortable. You'll be sitting back in a chair, so wear something you can relax in.

Leave extra time. Your first appointment will be a bit longer than future visits because we'll do a thorough consultation. Don't rush yourself.

What Actually Happens During the Appointment

Here's a step-by-step walkthrough so there are zero surprises:

Step 1: The Consultation

This is the most important part — especially for first-timers. We'll sit down and talk about what's bothering you, what you're hoping to achieve, and what realistic results look like.

I'll look at your face from different angles, assess your facial structure, and then explain what I'd recommend and why. This is your time to ask every question you have. Seriously, ask away. There are no dumb questions when it comes to your face.

Step 2: Numbing

Once we've agreed on a plan, I'll apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment area. This sits for about 10 to 15 minutes and makes the whole process much more comfortable. Most fillers also have lidocaine (numbing agent) built into the product, so you get a double layer of comfort.

Step 3: The Actual Injections

Here's the part everyone worries about — and it's honestly less intense than you're imagining. The injections themselves take about 15 to 30 minutes depending on the area and how much we're doing.

What does it feel like? Most people describe it as pressure with occasional mild pinching. Some areas are more sensitive than others (lips tend to be more sensitive than cheeks, for example). But it's very manageable, and I check in with you throughout.

Step 4: Checking the Results

After the injections, I'll hand you a mirror so you can see the results. Keep in mind that there will be some swelling at this point, so what you see right after isn't your final result. I'll explain what's swelling versus what's filler so you have realistic expectations.

Step 5: Aftercare Instructions

Before you leave, I'll go over everything you need to know for the next few days. You'll also get written instructions to take home because let's be honest — you might not remember everything when you're riding the adrenaline high of your first treatment.

After Your Appointment

The First 24 Hours

This is the most important recovery window. Here's what to do and what to avoid:

Do:

• Apply ice gently if there's swelling (wrap it in a cloth, don't put ice directly on your skin)

• Sleep with your head slightly elevated

• Drink plenty of water

• Take Tylenol if you're uncomfortable

Don't:

• Touch, press, or massage the treated area

• Exercise intensely

• Drink alcohol

• Go to saunas, steam rooms, or hot yoga

• Apply heavy makeup on the injection sites

Days 2 Through 5

Swelling will peak around day 2 and then start to go down. You might notice some bruising — this is normal and can be covered with makeup after 24 hours. Some people don't bruise at all. It's really individual.

You might also notice that the filler feels a bit firm or lumpy to the touch. Don't panic. This is normal in the early days and usually smooths out on its own as the filler settles.

The Two-Week Mark

This is when you'll see your true results. The swelling is gone, the filler has settled into place, and what you see in the mirror is what you've got. This is also when we typically schedule a follow-up to make sure you're happy with everything.

How Long Will It Last?

This depends on the area treated and the type of filler used, but here's a general guide:

• Lips: 6 to 9 months

• Cheeks: 12 to 18 months

• Nasolabial folds: 9 to 12 months

• Under-eyes: 12 to 18 months

• Jawline: 12 to 15 months

Your metabolism, lifestyle, and the specific product used all play a role. We'll talk about a maintenance schedule that works for you during your follow-up.

One Last Thing

Your first filler appointment should feel exciting, not scary. And a lot of that comes down to who you choose to work with. At Aesthetic Touch by Raya, my goal is to make you feel completely comfortable and confident from the moment you walk in.

If you're in Plano, TX or anywhere in the DFW area and you've been thinking about fillers, let's talk. Book a consultation and we'll figure out what's right for you — no pressure, no judgment, just honest guidance.

You're going to do great.