Preparing for your first Botox appointment is straightforward: avoid blood thinners for 7 days, skip alcohol for 24 hours, arrive with a clean face, and bring any questions you have. At MDW Aesthetics in Brickell, we've guided hundreds of first-time patients through the process. Your experience starts with a thorough consultation and ends with a follow-up to ensure you love your results.
If you've been thinking about Botox for months (or years) and finally decided to take the step, the anticipation can feel bigger than the actual treatment. Most patients tell me afterward that they wish they had done it sooner. This guide covers everything from pre-appointment preparation to what happens during the injection to aftercare tips specific to Miami's lifestyle.
Before Your Appointment: What to Do and Avoid
Stop blood thinners 7 days before, avoid alcohol for 24 hours, and arrive with a clean, makeup-free face. These steps minimize bruising and help your injector see your natural facial lines clearly.
Here is a complete preparation checklist:
- 7 days before: Stop aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, and any other blood-thinning supplements. These increase bruising risk. If you take prescription blood thinners, consult your primary care physician.
- 24 hours before: Avoid alcohol. Even a glass of wine can increase blood flow to the face and contribute to bruising.
- Day of appointment: Arrive with clean skin -- no makeup, sunscreen, or heavy moisturizer. If you're coming from work in Brickell, we have cleansing wipes available.
- Bring your questions: Write down any concerns or goals. The consultation is the time to discuss them.
- Eat normally: No need to fast. Arriving on an empty stomach can increase anxiety and lightheadedness.
What Happens During Your First Botox Visit
Your first visit includes a consultation, facial assessment, muscle mapping, injection, and aftercare review. The entire appointment takes 30-45 minutes, though the injection itself is only 10-15 minutes.
Here is a step-by-step walkthrough of your first appointment at MDW Aesthetics:
- Consultation (10 minutes): We discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history. "When a patient sits in my chair for the first time, I always start by listening," says Lisa MacLachlan, MSN, APRN, FNP-C. "Understanding what you want to achieve matters more than jumping straight to the needle."
- Facial assessment (5 minutes): You'll make facial expressions -- smile, frown, raise your eyebrows -- while your injector studies your muscle patterns and skin quality.
- Treatment planning (5 minutes): Your injector recommends specific areas, unit counts, and explains the expected result. You see a clear plan before any treatment begins.
- Injection (10-15 minutes): Using a very fine needle, Jeuveau is placed at precise points mapped on your face. Most patients describe the sensation as a quick pinch. No numbing cream is needed for most Botox treatments.
- Aftercare review (5 minutes): You receive written aftercare instructions and schedule your 2-week follow-up appointment.
The First 24 Hours After Botox: Miami-Specific Tips
Stay upright for 4 hours, avoid touching the treated area, skip intense exercise for 24 hours, and stay out of the Miami sun for the rest of the day to reduce swelling and ensure the product settles properly.
Post-treatment guidelines:
- No lying down for 4 hours: This prevents the product from migrating away from the injection sites.
- No rubbing or pressing the treated area: Gentle facial expressions are fine, but don't massage or push on the treated zones.
- No intense exercise for 24 hours: Heavy workouts increase blood flow and body temperature, which can affect product distribution.
- Avoid heat exposure: Skip the sauna, steam room, and extended time in direct Miami sun for 24 hours. The heat can increase swelling and affect results.
- No alcohol for 24 hours post-treatment: Alcohol thins the blood and increases bruising risk.
Sarah M., a first-time Botox patient at MDW Aesthetics, shared: "I was so nervous about getting Botox for the first time, but the team made me feel completely at ease. The results are amazing -- I look refreshed and natural, not frozen at all!"
When Will You See Results?
First results appear at days 3-5. Full effects develop by day 10-14. MDW Aesthetics schedules a complimentary 2-week follow-up to assess your results and make any needed adjustments.
Botox results are not instant -- the product needs time to block the nerve signals to your muscles. Be patient during the first week. Many first-time patients worry that "it's not working" at day 2. By day 5, you'll start to notice smoother movement. By day 14, you'll see the full result.
Wondering about cost? Read our detailed Botox pricing guide for Miami in 2026. Learn about how often you should get Botox for maintenance.
Ready for your first Botox experience? Schedule a complimentary consultation at MDW Aesthetics in Brickell or call (786) 788-8626.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Results vary by individual. Consult with a qualified provider before undergoing any treatment.

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Lisa is an advanced practice registered nurse specializing in Botox, lip filler, and PRP treatments. She brings a patient-first approach to every consultation at MDW Aesthetics in Brickell.
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This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Read our medical disclaimer.



