Pre-Procedure Instructions
These instructions apply to cosmetic treatments at both our Hicksville and Stony Brook offices, including Botox and Xeomin, Juvéderm, Voluma, Restylane, Radiesse, and Belotero fillers, and laser treatments (Sciton Joule BBL/IPL photofacials, and Cutera Secret Pro CO₂ resurfacing and RF microneedling).
- Arrive 30 minutes early if your treatment uses topical numbing cream, so it has time to take full effect.
- Avoid NSAIDs, fish oil, and alcohol for 10 days before and after injectable and laser treatments. This includes ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and aspirin — unless a physician has prescribed aspirin for a medical condition, in which case keep taking it and let us know. Avoiding these greatly reduces bruising.
- Stop retinoids 1 week before and after laser treatments. This includes prescription tretinoin and over-the-counter retinol products.
- No dental work — including cleanings — for 2 weeks before and after filler or ablative laser appointments. Dental procedures can introduce bacteria that may cause complications with fresh filler.
- Come with clean skin. Please do not wear makeup on the day of your treatment.
Cancellation Policy
Cosmetic procedures are not covered by insurance. If you have questions about pricing or preparation, our team is happy to help before your visit.
Learn About Our Cosmetic Treatments
Want to know what to expect from your treatment? These patient education articles cover the most common cosmetic visits:
Cosmetic Visit FAQ
Why can't I take ibuprofen before Botox or filler?
NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin thin the blood, which significantly increases bruising and swelling at injection sites. We ask patients to avoid NSAIDs, fish oil, and alcohol for 10 days before and after injectable and laser treatments. If you take aspirin because a physician prescribed it, continue taking it and let us know.
Why is dental work restricted around filler appointments?
Dental procedures, including routine cleanings, can introduce bacteria into the bloodstream that may travel to freshly placed filler and cause infection or inflammatory reactions. Please avoid dental work for 2 weeks before and after filler or ablative laser appointments.
What is the cancellation policy for cosmetic visits?
Cosmetic appointments cancelled with less than 48 hours notice are subject to a $100 cancellation fee. If you need to reschedule, please call or text (516) 822-7546 at least 48 hours before your appointment time.
How early should I arrive for my cosmetic appointment?
If your treatment uses topical numbing cream, arrive 30 minutes early so the numbing has time to take full effect. For all cosmetic visits, please come with clean skin and no makeup on the treatment day.
Schedule Your Appointment
Ready to book your cosmetic visit at our Hicksville, NY or Stony Brook, NY office?
More questions before your visit? See all Patient Resources or return to the Belaray Dermatology homepage.