Lip Filler Aftercare

September 23 2024

Lip fillers have become a go-to treatment for those seeking fuller, more defined lips. However, the journey to getting your desired look doesn’t end when you leave our clinic.

Proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring you get the best results, minimising complications, and maintaining your new pout.

Our comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about caring for your lips post-treatment, from immediate aftercare to long-term maintenance.

Understanding Lip Fillers

Before diving into aftercare, let’s briefly discuss what lip fillers are and how they work.

What Are Lip Fillers?

Lip fillers are injectable treatments that add volume to your lips. They typically contain hyaluronic acid, a substance naturally found in your body that helps retain moisture and add plumpness to your skin.

How Do They Work?

When injected into the lips, the filler attracts water molecules, creating a plumping effect. This not only adds volume but can also help smooth out fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth area.

Immediate Aftercare Instructions

The hours immediately following your treatment are crucial for achieving the best results. Here’s what you need to know:

Avoid Touching or Massaging the Area

After your treatment, it’s vital to resist the urge to touch or massage your lips. Doing so could displace the filler, leading to uneven results or potential complications. Let your lips settle naturally for the first few days.

Keep your hands away from your lips
If you must touch your face, ensure your hands are clean
Avoid applying pressure to your lips when washing your face

Ice Application to Reduce Swelling

To minimise swelling and discomfort:

Apply an ice pack or cold compress to your lips
Use for 10-minute intervals throughout the day
Wrap the ice pack in a clean cloth to protect your skin
Continue this process for the first 24-48 hours as needed

Remember, some swelling is normal and is part of the desired effect in the first few days.

Avoid Makeup for the First 24 Hours

Resist applying any makeup to your lips or the surrounding area for at least 24 hours post-treatment. Makeup can introduce bacteria to the treated area, increasing the risk of infection and potentially compromising your results.

Clean your makeup brushes and applicators before using them again
When you do start wearing makeup, be gentle when applying and removing it
Consider using new, unopened lip products to minimise bacterial contamination

Activities to Avoid Post-Treatment

To ensure the best possible outcome, there are several activities you should avoid in the days following your treatment:

Exercise and Strenuous Activity

For the first 24-48 hours after your treatment:

Avoid exercise and strenuous activities
Stay away from saunas and hot baths
These activities can increase blood flow, potentially leading to more swelling or bruising
Light walking is fine, but avoid anything that significantly elevates your heart rate

Flying and High-Altitude Activities

It’s best to avoid air travel or high-altitude activities for at least a few days after your treatment. The change in air pressure can exacerbate swelling and discomfort.

If you must fly, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Consider wearing a scarf to protect your lips from dry airplane air

Sun Exposure

Excessive sun or heat exposure can increase the risk of swelling or bruising. When outdoors:

Use a lip balm with SPF
Wear a wide-brimmed hat for added protection
Avoid sunbathing or using sunbeds for at least a week
If possible, limit your time in direct sunlight for the first few days

What to Expect in the Days Following Treatment

Understanding what’s normal in the days after your treatment can help alleviate concerns and ensure you’re on track for great results.

Swelling and Bruising

It’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising in the first few days after your treatment. This should subside within a week. Remember:

Swelling often peaks within the first 24-48 hours
Bruising can vary in colour and typically fades within 5-7 days
Everyone’s healing process is unique, so be patient with your results
Use arnica cream or gel to help reduce bruising, if recommended by your practitioner

Lumps or Irregularities

You might notice small lumps or irregularities as the filler settles. This is usually temporary and should resolve on its own. However, if you’re concerned about persistent lumps, don’t hesitate to consult your practitioner.

Gentle massage may be recommended after a few days, but only if instructed by your practitioner
Asymmetry is common initially and should resolve as swelling subsides

Tenderness and Sensitivity

Your lips may feel tender or sensitive for a few days after the treatment. This is normal and should gradually improve.

Avoid foods that require excessive lip movement, like large burgers or apples
Stick to softer foods if you experience discomfort while eating

Dos and Don'ts for the Best Results

Following these guidelines can help ensure you achieve and maintain the best possible results from your lip filler treatment.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is crucial for:

Aiding the healing process
Maintaining the plump appearance of your lips
Supporting overall skin health

Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day. Herbal teas and water-rich foods can also contribute to your hydration.

Avoid Alcohol and Blood Thinners

For at least 24-48 hours post-treatment, steer clear of:

Alcohol
Blood-thinning medications like aspirin (unless prescribed by your doctor)
Supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, and ginger

These can increase bruising and swelling, potentially affecting your results.

Sleep with Your Head Elevated

For the first few nights after your treatment:

Sleep with your head slightly elevated on an extra pillow
This can help minimise swelling and discomfort
Try to sleep on your back to avoid putting pressure on your lips

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Keeping your mouth clean is important to prevent infection:

Continue brushing your teeth as normal, but be gentle around your lips
Use an alcohol-free mouthwash
Avoid dental procedures for at least two weeks after treatment, if possible

When to Contact Your Practitioner

While complications are rare, it’s important to be aware of potential warning signs. Contact your practitioner immediately if you experience:

Excessive swelling
Severe pain
Signs of infection (e.g., fever, worsening redness)
Any unusual symptoms that concern you
Blanching or discoloration of the lips or surrounding area
Severe asymmetry that doesn’t improve after a few days

It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health and safety.

Long-Term Care and Maintenance

To maintain your results and keep your lips looking their best:

Stay hydrated and maintain a healthy lifestyle
Use a good quality lip balm to keep your lips moisturised
Protect your lips from sun damage with SPF
Consider follow-up treatments as recommended by your practitioner

Final Thoughts

Following these aftercare instructions is crucial for achieving the best possible results from your lip filler treatment. Remember, everyone’s healing process is unique, so be patient and gentle with yourself. Proper care in the days and weeks following your treatment can help ensure long-lasting, beautiful results.

If you have any concerns or questions about your treatment, don’t hesitate to reach out to your practitioner. They are there to support you throughout your lip filler journey.

Ready to enhance your pout? Book a consultation or treatment with us today, and let’s discuss how we can help you achieve your desired look. For more information on dermal fillers, check out our related blog post: “What Happens When Dermal Fillers Wear Off.”

Lip Filler Aftercare FAQs

How long will my lips be swollen after filler?

Swelling typically peaks within the first 24-48 hours and subsides within 5-7 days. However, minor swelling may persist for up to two weeks. Each person’s experience can vary.

Can I eat after getting lip fillers?

Yes, you can eat, but it’s advisable to:

Avoid very hot or spicy foods that could cause discomfort
Stick to softer foods for the first day or two
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
Use a straw for drinks to minimise lip movement, if comfortable

How soon can I apply makeup after lip fillers?

Wait at least 24 hours before applying any makeup to your lips or the surrounding area. This helps prevent infection and irritation. When you do start wearing makeup again:

Use clean brushes and applicators
Be gentle when applying and removing makeup
Consider using mineral-based or non-comedogenic products

Is it normal to feel lumps after lip fillers?

Some lumps are normal as the filler settles. These should disappear within a week. If lumps persist or feel hard, consult your practitioner. They may recommend gentle massage techniques to help smooth out the filler.