Your dermal filler provider will ensure that you have all the necessary instructions to be properly prepared for your cheek filler appointment, but there are some general tips to keep in mind to allow for the injections to heal perfectly. You must avoid taking anything that can lead to blood thinning for at least one week leading up to your dermal filler appointment, including alcohol and certain medications to minimize the risk of bruising if possible. If you are unsure if a medication that you are on is safe to take before the appointment, it is highly recommended that you ask either your primary care physician or the specialist that will be administering the fillers. Within 2 days before your appointment, avoid using any topical products labeled as “anti-aging” on your facial skin as it likely contains products that could affect how your skin heals from the injections. To further prevent irritation to the areas that will be treated, try to avoid the use of bleach or hair removal cream, as well as waxing or tweezing the area within 2 days before the injections. On the day of the appointment, make sure that the skin that will be treated is freshly cleaned and without any products. Many dermal specialists will allow you to apply a topical numbing cream before the appointment but it is recommended that you double-check with your specialist and use only products that they recommend.