5 Critical Things to Know Before Getting Fillers

March 2, 2026 7 min read Dr. Hamza Gemici

Every day, dozens of patients come to my clinic saying "I want to get fillers." However, a significant portion of them have made their decision without having enough information about the procedure. From years of experience, I can say this: An informed patient is a happy patient.

In this article, I explain the 5 critical things you must know before getting fillers from a physician's perspective. My goal is not to scare you; it's to ensure you enter the procedure with the right expectations and safely.

Make Sure the Person Doing the Filler is a "Physician"

In Turkey, filler application can only be performed by physicians. Unfortunately, there are people in the market doing fillers with titles like "aesthetician" or "beauty specialist." This is both illegal and extremely risky. Complications such as vascular occlusion, infection, and asymmetry are much more common in inexperienced hands.

The question you should ask before booking an appointment: "Who will perform the procedure and do they have a medical degree?" Don't hesitate to ask this question — a professional clinic will give you a clear answer.

Verify That the Product Used is Original and Approved

Unfortunately, there are fillers on the market without FDA or CE approval, from uncertain sources. These products may be cheap but the risks are very high: Granuloma formation, chronic inflammation, permanent deformity... The original product's serial number and expiration date should be shared with you.

👨‍⚕️ Physician Note: In our clinic, only FDA and CE approved, original products are used. The serial number and brand of the product applied to each patient is recorded. Product selection is determined together according to the patient's needs, budget, and expectations.

If You Want a "Natural Look," Say It Clearly

The exaggerated lip and cheek fillers on social media are not everyone's expectation. If you want "I don't want it to be obvious, I just want to look refreshed," state this clearly at the first consultation. A good physician will listen to you and suggest a plan that suits your facial proportions.

Remember: Adding filler is easy, but maintaining naturalness requires mastery. The "more is better" mentality doesn't apply in aesthetic medicine. Less but correct intervention always gives better results.

Take Pre and Post-Procedure Instructions Seriously

Blood thinning medications, alcohol, and certain supplements before filler increase bruising risk. The first 24 hours after the procedure are critical: Factors like intense exercise, sauna, and makeup can lead to complications. Follow the instructions given to you exactly.

Things to Watch Before the Procedure:

Stop blood thinners like aspirin and ibuprofen 1 week before the procedure (consulting your doctor)
Take a 3-5 day break from supplements like Omega-3, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba
Don't drink alcohol on the day of the procedure
If you're planning lip filler and have an active cold sore, postpone the procedure

Set Realistic Expectations

Filler is not a miracle, it's a medical application. Just as it's not possible to transform into a Hollywood star in a single session, not every face type is suitable for every type of filler. A good physician will honestly tell you what's possible and what's risky.

Don't hesitate to ask some questions:

"Is this application suitable for my face type?"
"How long will it be effective?"
"What are the possible risks and complications?"
"What can be done if I'm not satisfied with the result?"

⚠️ Attention: Be careful with "very cheap" offers. The combination of quality products and experienced physician requires a certain cost. Extremely low prices are a sign of either fake products or inexperienced practitioners.

Conclusion: Informed Patient, Happy Patient

Filler application is extremely safe and effective when done in the right hands with the right products. However, like every medical intervention, it requires being informed.

Go to your appointment keeping these 5 points in mind. Ask your questions, share your concerns. Don't work with a physician who doesn't listen to you or dismisses your questions.

Remember: This is your face, your decision. Don't rush, research, and work with a physician you trust.

Do You Have Questions?

You can ask anything that comes to mind about filler application. Contact us via WhatsApp for a free preliminary consultation.

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This content is for general informational purposes and does not replace medical advice. A face-to-face physician evaluation is required for your personal situation.