Keep Austin Glowing · Injectables · Holiday Season
Holiday Party Prep: When to Book Botox and Filler Before Your Events
A calm, week-by-week plan so you look rested at every party, not freshly treated.
By the Austin Med Spa team · · 5 min read
The Short Answer
Book Botox or Dysport at least two weeks before your event, and dermal filler two to four weeks before. That gives results time to settle and any swelling or bruising time to fade.
Why timing matters
Botox and Dysport don't work instantly. Most people notice softening around day three to five, with the full effect at about two weeks. Two weeks is also when we can see whether a small touch-up would help, so booking earlier keeps that option open.
Dermal filler looks good right away, but swelling and occasional bruising are common for the first several days and can take up to two weeks to settle completely. Lip filler tends to swell the most, especially in the first two to three days.
Your holiday countdown
4+ weeks out
Book your consultation. This is the ideal window for cheek, chin or jawline filler, and the time to start collagen-building treatments like Sculptra, which build gradually over months.
2 to 3 weeks out
Botox or Dysport for forehead, frown lines and crow's feet. Lip filler, if you want a buffer for swelling.
About 2 weeks out
Results are at full effect. This is when a small adjustment can still be made.
1 week out
Skin treatments with little or no downtime, such as a HydraFacial or dermaplaning.
The final few days
Keep it gentle. Skip new injectables, and focus on hydration, sleep and sunscreen.
How to lower the chance of bruising
- —For 24 hours before injectables, skip alcohol. If your physician agrees, pause fish oil and anti-inflammatory pain relievers, which can increase bruising.
- —Tell us about every event on your calendar so we can plan treatment dates around them.
- —Afterward, stay upright for a few hours and skip strenuous exercise for the rest of the day.
- —If a bruise does appear, it usually fades within a week or two and can be covered with makeup after the first day.
Give the gift of a refreshed look
Austin Med Spa gift cards can be used toward treatments, which makes them a thoughtful holiday gift. Buy a gift card online, or call or text (512) 479-9997 and our team will help you choose.
Common questions
Can I get Botox the week of my party?
You can, but it may not have reached full effect by the event, and there would be no time for a touch-up. Two weeks ahead is the safer plan.
How far ahead should I get lip filler before an event?
Two to four weeks. Swelling is usually most noticeable in the first two to three days and can take up to two weeks to fully settle.
Will people be able to tell I had something done?
Our approach is conservative dosing and natural placement, so most people simply look rested. Planning ahead also means any swelling or bruising is gone before you are photographed.
What if I bruise right before an event?
Most bruises fade within one to two weeks and can usually be covered with makeup after the first day. Call or text us if you are concerned about any bruise or swelling.
General information, not medical advice. Your provider will review your health history and goals at consultation and recommend what is safe and appropriate for you.