Lip fillers - aftercare
The results of lip plumping and contouring can be seen immediately after the treatment. Possible side effects after the procedure may include redness, swelling and occasional bruising. In the first few days of lip filling in particular, there may be severe swelling. It is recommended that the final outcome of the treatment should only be assessed 2-4 weeks after the procedure, once any swelling and other side effects have disappeared.
After-effects lasting 2-4 weeks are fairly common:
- Swelling
- Patterns
- Blushing
- Pain, tingling and tightness
- Hardness on palpation, lumps, bumps
In the first few days, the swelling may be severe, especially in the morning. The appearance and shape of the lips may vary from day to day, which is a normal phenomenon. Initially, there may also be asymmetry, as the swelling may persist longer on one side than the other. Often the swelling of the upper lip is more pronounced than that of the lower lip.
Unfortunately, bruising can’t be completely avoided, even when performed by an experienced and skilled professional. However, you can take certain steps to lessen bruising and help it fade more quickly.
It’s recommended to discontinue all blood thinners for about two weeks before lip contouring.
- Painkillers containing acetylsalicylic acid and ibuprofen (such as Aspirin and Burana) can increase bruising sensitivity. Therefore, paracetamol is recommended as an alternative for a couple of weeks before your filler treatment.
- Many supplements can also have a similar effect; for example, it is a good idea to take a break from vitamin E, fish oil and omega supplements both before and after treatment.
Proper cold pack treatment can help reduce and prevent swelling and bruising. However, avoid excessive use or placing the cold pack directly on the skin, as this may lead to frostbite and worsen after-effects.
Swelling, tingling and other unpleasant sensations can be treated with allergy medicines, which are available without a prescription from a pharmacy.
Any pain can be treated with paracetamol.
Replace your pillowcase with a clean one after getting your lips done.
Avoid these
- Smoking and e-cigarette use (preferably for at least one week)
- Touching, rubbing or scratching the treatment area (avoid for at least 2 weeks)
- Intense exercise (avoid 2-3 days)
- Lip make-up (avoid 1-2 days)
- Heavy chewing of hard foods (avoid for 1 day)
- Dental visits (preferably avoided for at least 1 week)
- Sleeping on your stomach or on your side (2 days)
Other aftercare instructions
The recommendations below are not compulsory, but following them can reduce recovery phase symptoms and promote healing.
- Avoiding alcohol before and after lip contouring can speed up recovery, as alcohol thins your blood and may increase bruising and swelling. It's best to avoid alcohol for at least 1-2 days before and after your procedure.
- After your lip filler treatment, avoid kissing, rubbing, or touching your lips to support a smooth recovery and optimal results. Repeated contact can increase inflammation and affect how the filler sets. If possible, steer clear of air travel during the first week, as flying can put extra pressure on your lips.
- Avoid drinking with a straw for a few days after your lip filler treatment. Using a straw increases pressure on your lips and may worsen side effects.
- It is recommended to reduce salt intake for 24-48 hours, as salt can increase swelling. A healthy diet will speed up the resolution of side effects.
- During the first two days after your treatment, you can apply a cold compress to the area several times a day for up to 15 minutes at a time. Cold treatment helps reduce tingling, swelling, and bruising.
- Sunbathing and sauna bathing should be avoided for at least two days after your filler treatment, as heat dilates blood vessels and increases swelling and bruising.
- Drinking enough water speeds up the healing process, as the hyaluronic acid injected into the lips binds water. Staying well-hydrated supports recovery and can improve the treatment outcome.
