Medically reviewed by Jane Yoo, MD, MPP, dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Last reviewed 11/04/2026.

The short answer: Before you get filler, ask who will inject, what product they are using, how they handle complications, and what the plan is if you are unhappy. A good injector welcomes these questions. Vague answers, pressure to book on the spot, or a reluctance to show you the product are all reasons to pause.

About the injector

1. Who will be injecting me, and what is their training? Ask for their medical license and specialty. In New York, filler is a medical procedure.
2. How often do you perform this specific treatment? Experience in the exact area matters, such as lips, under-eyes or cheeks.
3. Can I see before-and-after photos of patients like me? Look for natural results, similar ages and skin tones, and the same treatment area.

About the product

4. What product are you using, and is it FDA-approved for this area? Ask to see the packaging. Product names and lot numbers should be visible.
5. Where was it purchased? Product should come from an authorized distributor. Gray-market or counterfeit product is a known safety risk.
6. Is it hyaluronic acid? Only hyaluronic acid filler can be dissolved with hyaluronidase. Other fillers cannot be dissolved the same way.

About safety

7. What are the risks for my treatment area? Bruising and swelling are common. Serious complications are rare but include vascular occlusion, which can cause tissue damage or vision problems.
8. Do you keep hyaluronidase in the room? It should be on hand and the injector should know when and how to use it.
9. How do you recognize and respond to a vascular emergency? Signs include severe pain, blanching, a lacy or mottled color change, or vision changes.

About the plan

10. How much do I really need, and in which areas? A good plan is conservative. Ask what you can do in stages.
11. What is the follow-up plan? You should be able to reach the office if something looks wrong, and a follow-up visit should be offered.
12. What happens if I am not happy? Ask about adjustments and dissolving as an option. Do not feel pressured.

Red flags

• Discounts that expire today, or pressure to treat extra areas
• Treatment in a setting with no medical supervision
• No consultation, or no health history
• Refusal to show product or credentials
• No clear plan for complications

If something feels wrong after filler

Call the injector right away. Severe pain, a pale or dusky patch of skin, a lacy pattern, or any vision change after filler is an emergency: seek care immediately.

Frequently asked questions

Can any doctor inject filler? Training and experience vary. Ask about both.

Is filler reversible? Hyaluronic acid filler can be dissolved. Other types cannot be dissolved the same way.

How long does filler last? It varies by product, area and person. Your injector can advise.

Is it safe to get filler from a non-medical setting? Safety depends on training, product source and the ability to manage complications. A medical setting is generally the safer choice.

Call to action: Considering filler? Book a consultation with Dr. Yoo.