How to Reduce Swelling after Lip Fillers?

Nonsurgical cosmetic procedures like lip fillers are very popular with both men and women. Dermal fillers can help create a fuller, more defined lip with just one 30-minute appointment.
At Great City Medical, we use top-quality products such as Juvéderm Ultra XC. Our lip fillers contain hyaluronic acid, which locks in moisture in the lips and has been shown to increase the body’s production of collagen.

Hyaluronic acid lip fillers are long-lasting, natural-looking, and safe for most people.

There is no downtime needed after receiving a lip filler procedure. But since it is an injectable treatment, the body does undergo a small healing process around the injection site. So, it is important to follow the best lip filler aftercare practices in order to minimize swelling and receive the best aesthetic results.

How Long Does the Swelling Last after Lip Fillers?

While there are very few common side effects associated with lip injections and recovery time is very quick, you may experience some temporary soreness, redness, bruising, or swelling in the area immediately after injection.

If you experience some swelling in the treated area, don’t worry! This is perfectly normal and only temporary. Once the swelling goes down, your lip augmentation will look and feel great.
Patients tend to report that lip swelling is the worst the first day after their injection, particularly in the morning. Swelling should go down within 2–3 days after your lip filler treatment, and should subside completely within 2 weeks post-treatment.

In the meantime, there are some things you should do to help manage swelling and discomfort.

What Helps to Reduce Swelling after Lip Fillers?

After receiving lip filler injections, swelling can be easily managed by applying ice to the lip area. Gently apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel or a cold compress to the lips. Be sure to use soft cloth and do not to use anything that could stick to the lips, as this could worsen the discomfort.

Talk to your doctor if you feel you need to take any medication for the pain. Generally, Tylenol is recommended. Other common medications such as ibuprofen, Motrin, or aspirin are not recommended because they are blood thinners, which can impact the healing process and increase the risk of bruising. Over-the-counter antihistamines may also help reduce swelling, and arnica cream may be appropriate to help reduce the appearance of bruising.

It is recommended that you drink plenty of water and eat lots of healthy fruits and vegetables after your procedure. Avoid very salty or spicy foods, as these can irritate the lips. Staying hydrated and eating well can help the body heal.

At night, you may wish to sleep with your head elevated to reduce blood flow and fluid retention in the area overnight. Avoid sleeping on your face.

Should You Exercise After Lip Fillers?

You should also avoid strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms, hot showers, or any high temperatures for 24–48 hours post-treatment.
The increased physical activity and high temperatures can increase your heart rate and blood flow to the area, worsening any swelling, bruising, or discomfort. Heavy sweating can introduce bacteria to the lip area and increase your risk of infection at the injection sites. Sweating can also cause dehydration, so be sure to drink lots of water to replace any fluids.
If you must exercise within the first day or two after getting lip fillers, try to stick to walking or other light activity. Try to exercise early in the morning, late in the evening, or in an air-conditioned climate to avoid the heat.

Can you Kiss after Lip Filler?

It is important to let your body rest and heal after a lip filler treatment. Therefore, it is recommended that you avoid activities such as kissing for 48 hours after receiving lip injections.
Kissing can put a lot of pressure on your lips, causing pain, swelling, and bruising. Kissing can also increase your risk of infection by introducing bacteria to the injector sites.
Other activities, such as drinking from a straw, sleeping on your face, massaging the area, or having dental procedures done can carry the same risks. Avoid any activities that put pressure on your face or cause irritation after getting lip fillers.

Can you Wear Makeup after Lip Filler?

Be sure to keep the injection area very clean to avoid any risk of infection. Keep your face clean and use a gentle skincare routine. Avoid wearing lipstick and other makeup around your lips until they have healed.

If you must put any sort of lip product on within 48 hours of your lip fillers, be sure to use only new, clean products and apply them very gently. Don’t leave lip products on longer than necessary and clean your lips after wear.

Some patients may not like the look of their swollen lips, but others may enjoy the plump, fuller look. If you find that you enjoy a fuller-looking lip and are disappointed with the results once the swelling goes away, talk to your doctor about getting a top-up injection to increase the fullness of your lip filler.

Make an Appointment for Lip Filler in NYC today!

At Great City Medical, our medical professionals are trained in providing top-quality cosmetic treatments. They are ready to help you look and feel your best.

When you are looking for a lip augmentation procedure, skip the plastic surgeon and use injectable lip fillers instead to get the beautiful, natural-looking, full pout you’ve always dreamed of.

If you are in New York, call us and make an appointment for your consultation for lip fillers today!