Medically Reviewed June 2023, by Dr Toni Phillips, Group Clinical Director, for sk:n. Next review due June 2024.

If you’re planning to get or you have just received your lip filler injection, then it’s important to know what to expect afterwards. Read on to learn more about lip fillers and our top aftercare tips.

How long does lip filler swelling last

Swelling in the treatment area is normal, and you don’t need to worry about it! As soon as the swelling subsides, you will be delighted with your new lips.

If you’re wondering how long do lip fillers take to heal, most patients say the first day is the worst for lip swelling, especially in the morning. Following your lip filler treatment, any swelling should ‌reduce within 2–3 days and be gone completely within 2 weeks.

Lip filler swelling stages

It’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the stages of lip injection swelling and the lip filler swelling timeline that you may experience after procedures. You can minimise unneeded stress by learning about the various stages.

• Day 1: Lip filler injections can cause significant swelling around the lips for the first one or two days after the procedure
• Day 4: Bruising on the lips may appear around the fourth day. You may see the formation of bumps inside the lips as well. However, these issues will resolve by the end of the first week
• Day 7: Lip filler injections have a short recovery period and your lips will be at their best around seven days after the procedure. The body’s natural response to the filler injection is to swell, so it’s important to keep this in mind.
• Day 14: A noticeable reduction in swelling will ‌occur within two weeks. You may see the true results of your lip filler procedure. This means that after 14 days, you can expect the lip swelling to completely disappear.

If the swelling somehow persists over two weeks, you might need to contact your dermatologist.

How to reduce swelling after lip fillers

Applying ice to the lips after getting lip filler injections is a simple way to reduce swelling. Apply a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the lips. Do not use anything that will stick to the lips as this will only make things worse.

 

How long does it take for lip fillers to settle

Lip fillers provide you with instant results, but the final effect will be less dramatic once the swelling subsides. About four weeks after the filler is injected into the skin, the final result is achieved.

Lumps after lip filler

A hematoma at the site of injection may be to blame if you have a lump after filler. Ensure that the lump isn’t an uncommon problem, such as an infection or vascular block by getting in touch with your dermatologist. If this is the case, then there’s no need to be alarmed; the lump will normally disappear in one to two weeks. By icing or using a cold compress, you can reduce the swelling.

Hyaluronidase can be injected directly into the lump if the problem is due to congealed hyaluronic acid.

 

What to do after lip fillers

Here are our top lip filler aftercare tips to ensure you get the best results from your procedure:

• Avoid intense exercise for at least 24 to 48 hours following a dermal filler procedure. Exercise increases blood pressure and heart rate can exacerbate swelling and bruising. Walking is a good example of low-impact exercise.
• Drink plenty of water to help your body heal.
• Swelling may be exacerbated if you consume too much salt or don’t get enough water in your diet.
• Avoid steam rooms or heated fitness classes for at least 48 hours after a procedure. Swelling might become more noticeable in hot weather.
• When getting lip fillers for a special occasion, be sure to give yourself plenty of time to recuperate between the procedure and the event.
• Keep your head raised using pillows as you sleep. You should not sleep on your stomach or back.
• Makeup should be avoided on your lips for up to 24 hours following the treatment.

Find your nearest clinic and arrange a consultation with one of our dermatologists for advice on how lip fillers can work for you