Expert Insights: What to Expect After Lip Fillers
At Bellava MedAesthetics & Plastic Surgery Center, we understand that getting lip fillers can be a big decision.
While lip fillers provide beautiful, natural-looking volume to lips, recovery is an important consideration.
Read on as we discuss everything you need to know about the lip filler healing timeline.
How Long Does It Take for Lip Fillers to Heal?
Initial swelling after lip fillers is usually strongest within the first 24-48 hours. The swelling starts to reduce after 2-3 days and is typically gone within 1-2 weeks. Lips are usually fully healed within 4 weeks.
It takes around 4 weeks for the filler to fully settle into the lips and achieve the final results. The effects of lip fillers usually last around 6 months.
Avoid strenuous exercise for the first 48 hours to allow healing. You can resume normal activities once the initial swelling subsides.
Lip Filler Procedure
During a lip filler treatment at Bellava MedAesthetics, our expert injectors first apply a topical anesthetic to numb the area. We may use hyaluronic acid dermal fillers like Restylane for a smooth, comfortable experience.
Using a micro-cannula, our providers strategically inject small amounts of filler into specific areas of the lips and around the mouth.
This personalized injection technique enhances lip shape, boosts volume, and smooths fine lines for a perfect pout. We tailor each treatment to match our patient’s facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
What to Expect During Recovery
After receiving lip fillers at Bellava MedAesthetics, some tenderness, swelling, redness and bruising around the injection sites is normal. Here’s what to expect during the healing timeline:
Immediately After Treatment
Your lips will likely be swollen and tender immediately after injections. This is temporary and improves within a few hours. We recommend icing the area to help minimize swelling and discomfort. Avoid strenuous exercise or facial massages right after your treatment.
Day 1
Swelling may increase slightly and feel firmer on the first day as the hyaluronic acid filler absorbs water and expands. Your doctor will likely recommend continuing to ice the area periodically. Bruising is also common within the first 24 hours.
Days 2-4
By days 2-4, swelling continues to improve. Bruising and tenderness often peak during this time frame. Discomfort typically decreases each day.
We advise patients to avoid alcohol consumption for at least 24 hours, as this can increase bruising. Gentle facial massage may help speed resolution of bruises.
1 Week
Most patients see a significant improvement in swelling, bruising and tenderness by one week after lip filler injections. Lips will start to soften and look more natural. While discomfort is usually minimal by this point, lips may still feel slightly firm.
2 Weeks
Two weeks after the procedure, most swelling should be resolved. Bruising also continues to fade. Your lips will have a softer, more natural appearance and texture. Most patients are able to return to normal activities by this time.
1 Month
One month out from lip filler injections, patients see the final results. Your lips will appear supple, smooth and beautifully voluminous. The hyaluronic acid filler material is fully integrated into the tissues. At this point, there are no visible signs that you had a cosmetic procedure.
Tips for Caring for Lips After Fillers
At Bellava MedAesthetics, we provide each lip filler patient with instructions on caring for their lips during recovery to promote proper healing:
- Avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours to prevent increased swelling and bleeding. Light activity is fine.
- Use cold compresses to help minimize swelling, redness and discomfort. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
- Sleep elevated on 2-3 pillows to reduce swelling.
- Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours, as this can worsen bruising.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or ibuprofen to relieve tenderness.
- Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated.
- Avoid extended sun exposure until any bruising fully resolves.
- Refrain from makeup for 24 hours. After 24 hours, mineral makeup may be worn if needed.
- Follow our skin care guidelines, including avoiding active products like retinoids for 2 weeks.
- Do not massage the area for at least 3 days. Gentle lymphatic drainage massage may then help.
- Avoid dental work, facials or other facial procedures for at least 2 weeks.
- Wait a full month for touch ups to allow complete healing and optimal results.
- Attend all follow up appointments so we can monitor your progress.
Proper aftercare and maintaining an open dialogue with your Bellava MedAesthetics provider ensures you heal quickly from lip filler injections. We want you looking and feeling your best.
When Can I Return to Normal Activities?
Most patients can resume regular activities 1-2 days after receiving lip fillers. Any visible swelling or bruising typically resolves within 7-10 days.
However, you’ll want to avoid strenuous exercise and dental procedures for about 2 weeks. Wait at least 4 weeks before receiving any laser treatments, chemical peels or skin-resurfacing procedures.
For a faster return to normal routines, schedule your lip filler appointment on a Friday. You’ll then have the weekend to recover.
How Long Do Lip Fillers Last?
One of the benefits of hyaluronic acid fillers is their longevity. Our lip filler patients can enjoy plump, supple lips for 6-12 months or longer after just one treatment.
Optimal results are seen about 1 month after injections as swelling fully resolves. Over time, your natural metabolism will gradually absorb the filler. Touch up appointments every 9-12 months can maintain your beautiful lip volume.
Will It Hurt to Get Lip Fillers?
Lip filler injections are very tolerable, especially when performed by our expert nurses. We use premium hyaluronic acid fillers for a smooth injection. Plus, we numb the area well beforehand.
The micro-cannula technique also minimizes discomfort.
Most patients report only minimal pain, likened to a pinch or bee sting. We can further enhance your relaxation with laughing gas or a topical numbing cream if desired.
Any potential discomfort is minor and temporary. We ensure your lip filler experience with Bellava MedAesthetics is as comfortable as possible.
Lip Filler FAQs
Below we’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions about lip fillers:
How long should I ice after lip fillers?
Icing for 10-15 minutes each hour as needed for the first 24-48 hours helps minimize swelling. Use a soft cloth between the ice and your skin.
When can I wear lipstick after fillers?
Avoid lipstick and gloss for 24 hours. After the first day, mineral makeup is okay. Wait one week for regular cosmetics.
When can I work out after lip injections?
Refrain from strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours. Light activity is fine the next day.
Can I drink alcohol after lip fillers?
Avoid alcohol for 24 hours, as this can increase bruising and swelling. After the first day, alcohol in moderation is okay.
How long does swelling last after lip fillers?
Swelling peaks at 2-4 days, then gradually resolves over 7-14 days. It may take a full month for swelling to completely subside.
How can I sleep after lip fillers?
Sleep propped up on a few pillows to minimize swelling. Side sleeping is best in the first few nights.
When will my lip fillers look normal?
Your lips will look natural by 2 weeks. Optimal results are seen at 1 month when swelling is gone.
How long do I have to wait between lip filler appointments?
We recommend waiting at least 4 weeks between touch ups for proper healing. Wait 6-12 months between regular injections to maintain volume.
What helps lip fillers heal faster?
Icing, sleeping elevated, avoiding alcohol, drinking water, taking arnica, gentle massage at day 3+, and using a moisturizing lip balm can help speed healing.
How much downtime is needed for lip injections?
Most patients only need 1-3 days of downtime. Swelling may persist for up to 2 weeks.
Restore Plump, Youthful Lips with Bellava MedAesthetics
We hope this guide helps you understand what to expect during the lip filler healing process. With proper aftercare, discomfort is minimal and you can resume regular activities quickly.
Our expert injectors at Bellava MedAesthetics provide personalized lip enhancement to help you achieve your aesthetic goals. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Our team is here to support you before, during, and after your treatment for safe, beautiful results.
