First Time Filler: What to Expect in Sherwood Park

Whether you're considering lip filler or facial filler, your first treatment is a big step. This guide helps you feel prepared and confident. Understanding the relationship between skin health and cosmetic enhancement can also help clarify your aesthetic goals.

Book First Consultation

Before Your First Filler Appointment

Pre-Treatment Preparation

Stop blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E) 7 days before
Avoid alcohol for 24-48 hours before treatment
Come with a clean face—no makeup on treatment areas
Prepare reference photos showing your goals
Eat a light meal before your appointment
Plan for potential swelling—consider timing around events

During Your Appointment

Consultation

Your injector will discuss your goals, assess your facial anatomy, and recommend appropriate products and volumes. Reference photos help communicate your vision.

Numbing

Topical numbing cream may be applied for 15-20 minutes. Most fillers also contain lidocaine for added comfort during injection.

Injections

Filler is carefully injected using fine needles or cannulas. You may feel pressure and mild pinching. Your injector will check placement and symmetry as they work.

Molding & Review

After injection, filler may be gently molded for optimal shaping. You'll review results with a mirror and receive aftercare instructions.

After Your Treatment

First 24 Hours

• Expect swelling—especially with lip filler
• Apply cold compresses as needed
• No makeup on treated areas
• Avoid strenuous exercise
• Don't touch or massage treated areas

First 2 Weeks

• Swelling gradually subsides
• Bruising fades (if present)
• Filler settles into final position
• Avoid facials and facial massage
• Final results become visible

Swelling & Results Timeline

Day 1-3

Peak swelling. Lips may look significantly larger than final result.

Day 4-7

Swelling decreasing. Results starting to look more natural.

Day 7-14

Most swelling resolved. Filler settling into final position.

Week 2-4

Final results visible. Ideal time for follow-up assessment.

First-Time Filler Questions

Does filler hurt?

Most modern fillers contain lidocaine (numbing agent), so discomfort is minimal. You may feel pressure and a brief pinch. Numbing cream can also be applied before treatment.

How long does a filler appointment take?

First appointments take 45-60 minutes including consultation. The injection process itself typically takes 15-30 minutes depending on the areas treated.

Will I bruise after filler?

Bruising is possible, especially in areas like lips. It typically resolves within 7-14 days. Avoiding blood thinners before treatment minimizes bruising risk.

How much filler do I need for the first time?

This varies by area and goals. Lips typically need 0.5-1ml, cheeks 1-2ml per side. Your injector will recommend conservative amounts—you can always add more later.

When will I see my filler results?

Results are visible immediately, but swelling may distort your appearance for 1-2 weeks. Final results are best assessed after swelling resolves.

What if I don't like my filler?

Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This is one reason HA fillers are preferred—they're reversible.

Can filler look natural?

Absolutely. Natural results depend on conservative dosing, proper placement, and choosing an experienced injector. The goal is enhancement, not obvious work.

What should I avoid before filler?

Avoid blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil) for 7 days, and alcohol for 24 hours. Arrive with clean skin—no makeup on treatment areas.

Can I wear makeup after filler?

Wait 24 hours before applying makeup to treated areas. This reduces infection risk and allows injection sites to close.

How long should I wait to exercise after filler?

Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours. Elevated heart rate and blood pressure can increase swelling and bruising.

Is lip filler different from other fillers?

Lip filler uses the same type of product but is specially formulated to be softer and more pliable. Lips tend to swell more than other areas.

What's the difference between different filler brands?

Different brands have varying thicknesses and properties. Your injector selects products based on the treatment area—softer fillers for lips, firmer fillers for cheeks.

Can I get filler while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Filler is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Wait until after breastfeeding to resume treatments.

How often will I need filler maintenance?

Filler lasts 6-18 months depending on the area. Many patients schedule maintenance when they notice volume diminishing rather than waiting for it to fully dissolve.