Many people think that photos taken immediately after lip filler are an accurate representation of the patient’s final results. In reality, this could not be farther from the truth. There are several lip filler swelling stages that occur during the healing process, and swelling will differ for each person based on a variety of factors.
Maybe you’ve never even considered lip filler because you want a subtle, more natural look, and you’re afraid your lips will look too puffy, ducky, unnatural, or large. You’re certainly not alone!
Your unique lips will swell and/or bruise in response to the amount of lip filler used, the size and shape of your lips, and your body’s own response to the lip filler injection procedure.
The purpose of this blog is to bring awareness and transparency to the process of lip filler, accurately represent the various stages of healing, and dispel common misconceptions that lip filler will make your lips look unnatural.
It’s normal for you to have swelling, redness, and lip filler bruising. But, if you take good care of your lips after the filler, the healing process will go faster.
So, it’s important to know what to expect and how to make the most of your lip filler experience which should be exciting for you.
It’s not uncommon to experience some redness, swelling, and bruising after lip fillers, especially in the target areas. But don’t worry, this is just your lips’ way of reacting naturally to the procedure. You see, when we use needles to enhance your lips, it’s considered a minor form of trauma.
The redness and swelling will go away on their own after a few hours or up to five days after the session. Don’t worry too much if you perceive an asymmetry in the shape of your lips in the first few days—this is temporary.
Avoid massaging or manipulating the lips unless directed by your provider. You may use Tylenol and a topical cold pack as needed for any soreness.
On day two after your procedure, the swelling often peaks, and that is when patients notice the swelling the most. However, please do not worry. Once again, this is a natural part of the body’s healing process and will go down with time.
About a day after getting your lip fillers, you might start to see some lip filler bruising, swelling and bumps. But there is no need to worry It will start to go down over the next few days.
Inflammation is just a natural effect of trauma after getting fillers.
About a week (7 days) after getting lip fillers, the swelling should go down, and your lips will be smaller than they were right after the procedure.
This is when you’ll start to see the final results of the treatment. Usually, the lip filler swelling stage lasts for about two weeks.
From week two on, you will notice a return to normalcy of your lips. While you may still see some mild, intermittent swelling, you shouldn’t have to pay much attention to your lips at all – which is a good thing!
By this point, you have hopefully also gotten used to the way they look and any changes with eating, drinking, or talking that you may have needed to make.
If you’ve made it two weeks and you feel comfortable, now is the time that it is safe for you to schedule any necessary dental procedures. You can also start having additional skin care treatments, like microdermabrasion, BBL photofacials and massages.
At four weeks or a month after the lips have settled you can get your lips assessed for symmetry and size.
If the patient wishes more filler, then it can be performed at this phase. However, if there is a need for any correction, you will need to wait at this period.
A lip that swells or bruises can be seen far more apparent than anywhere else on your face. That is why it is very problematic for a lot of people. On the other hand, swelling is a normal effect of various kinds of surgeries.
For example, a lot of people experience after getting a hair transplant.
The reason behind lip swelling is the same, at any time your skin is damaged, your body will direct fluid and white blood cells to which part. Damaged skin will inflame.
Surgeries that need incisions have the skin undergo a physical trauma. When it comes to lip filler, a substance used is attaching to water under your skin, which causes the lips to become plump.
The lip injections can cause bruising and bleeding under your skin, which means inflammation will happen.
This is normal and a part of healing. You don’t need to stress about it. But, if you think something is not normal, ensure to call the doctor.
While you can’t eliminate swelling entirely, you can take steps to work through the lip filler swelling stages faster and more comfortably. During your appointment, Dr. Buddiga will give you advice on how to reduce swelling and when to reach out if the issue becomes severe. He will most likely suggest applying ice or a cold cloth to your lips for 10 minutes at a time.
Along with icing your lips, there are other ways to increase your chances of reducing swelling caused by lip fillers. These include:
Avoid lipstick or lip balm for 24 hours after the injections.
Refrain from touching your lips or puckering them. This includes kissing or drinking from a straw.
Be careful when brushing your teeth.
Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet.
Refrain from exercise for 24 hours.
Swelling after lip fillers is a process that gradually unfolds over weeks. By following this weekly guide, you can effectively manage the swelling and appreciate the beautiful results.
As with any procedure, if you have any concerns, always consult with your medical professional for advice. Your journey to enhanced beauty should be a positive and empowering experience.
Lip fillers can provide beautiful results, but patience is key. The swelling will subside, and you will be able to appreciate the full results of your treatment. Until then, these tips should help you manage and reduce swelling. If you have any concerns, always reach out to your medical professional for advice.
Remember, every individual is unique, and so is their healing process. What works best for you may not work for someone else. Therefore, personal care, patience, and understanding your body’s needs and responses are crucial during the healing process.