Dreaming of fuller, plumper lips? Lip fillers can make those dreams a reality. But you need to follow lip filler aftercare to get the beautiful results you're hoping for. Proper lip filler aftercare focuses on reducing typical swelling and bruising. Let's dive into the tips and tricks that will minimise your lips’ swelling and bruising.
The First Steps to Lip Filler Aftercare
Swelling happens commonly after lip filler treatment. The first 24-48 hours after your procedure are important for reducing this and starting the healing process right. Follow these steps to minimise swelling and heal your lips without any complications.
Apply Ice Packs
Swelling is common after fillers. Apply ice packs wrapped in a thin cloth to your lips for 15 minutes, then take a 15-minute break. Cold temperature reduces inflammation and discomfort.
Elevate Your Head
Gravity can worsen swelling while you sleep. Use extra pillows to keep your head slightly raised. This improves lymphatic drainage and reduces puffiness.
Avoid Strenuous Exercise
Exercising immediately after your lip filler procedure isn't a good idea. It increases heart rate and blood pressure, which can worsen swelling and bruising. However, you can do gentle walks or light activities during the first 24-48 hours.
Drink Plenty of Water
Water is always important for your health, but it's even more important after lip fillers. It helps your body function at its best and flushes out toxins. Drink water throughout the day for a smooth recovery.
Supporting Recovery Beyond the First 24 Hours (48-72 hours)
Recovering from a lip filler procedure takes more than one day. Follow the steps below for the next 48-72 hours.
Dietary Choices
Focus on fruits and vegetables after your procedure. These foods contain vitamins and antioxidants that aid healing and reduce inflammation. Avoid salty foods, as excess salt can retain fluids and worsen swelling.
Minimise Smoking and Alcohol
Minimise smoking and alcohol consumption. Smoking restricts blood vessels, delaying healing and increasing infection risk. Alcohol dehydrates the body, impacting healing. Avoid both for at least 48 hours.
Makeup Application
Wait to apply makeup until the injection sites heal completely, typically at least 24 hours. Avoid lipstick and lip liner in the immediate aftermath, as these products can harbour bacteria and irritate the area.
Don’t Use Straws
Don't use straws for the first few days. Using straws creates pressure and movement in the lips, which can disrupt filler settling. Drink from a cup to allow the filler to settle evenly and minimise complications.
Try Topical Relief
Some patients find topical arnica cream or aloe vera gel soothing for swelling and discomfort. However, these aren't guaranteed remedies. Consult your practitioner before using any topical products on the treated area.
Lip Filler Aftercare Do's and Don'ts
After your lip filler procedure, you must follow proper aftercare practices for healing and optimal results. Here are key dos and don'ts to keep in mind:
What You Should Do
Cleanse Gently
After 24 hours, wash the lip area twice daily with a fragrance-free cleanser. Avoid harsh rubbing or scrubbing to minimise irritation at the injection sites.
Manage Pain
You can buy over-the-counter pain medication like paracetamol (consult your doctor first) to manage mild discomfort.
Protect Lips From the Sun
The sun's UV rays can worsen swelling and prolong healing. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Use a lip balm with SPF for added protection.
What You Shouldn’t Do
Don’t Touch Excessively
Lips are sensitive, and excessive touching or rubbing can irritate injection sites and disrupt filler settling. Avoid constantly touching or picking at your lips.
Don’t Apply Pressure
Avoid activities like kissing or vigorous rubbing for the first few days. This lets the filler settle evenly and minimises complications.
Don’t Expose to Extreme Temperature
Extreme hot or cold temperatures can worsen swelling. Avoid hot showers, saunas, steam rooms, and very cold weather for at least a week after your procedure.
Don’t Take Blood Thinners
Certain medications, like blood thinners and some supplements, can increase bruising and bleeding. Discuss any medications you take with your doctor before your procedure.
What To Expect After Lip Fillers
Following lip filler treatment, it's normal to experience some degree of swelling and bruising. The severity and duration of these effects can vary depending on the injection technique, the filler type used, and your body's natural healing response.
Swelling
Mild swelling is the most common side effect after lip fillers, typically peaking within the first 24-48 hours. It gradually subsides over the next 3-5 days. Following the aftercare instructions provided by your practitioner, such as applying ice packs and sleeping with your head elevated, can help minimise swelling.
Bruising
Bruising can also occur after lip fillers, although it's less common than swelling. Your lips will bruise within the first day or two and can last anywhere from a few days to a week. Arnica supplements may help reduce the appearance of bruising. But consult your doctor first before taking any supplements.
Manage your expectations. While swelling lessens within a week, it can take up to two weeks for the filler to settle completely and your lips to reach their final shape and size.
What if Swelling and Bruising Persist?
Some swelling and bruising are expected after lip fillers, but there are situations where to see your doctor or cosmetic practitioner. You should watch out for the following:
Prolonged Swelling: Swelling lasting more than a week or worsening significantly requires contacting your practitioner. This could signal an allergic reaction or infection.
Excessive Bruising: Extensive or severe bruising that doesn't improve within a week warrants a doctor's consultation.
Uneven Lips: If your lips appear uneven after the swelling subsides, contact your practitioner. Minor adjustments may be needed for a balanced look.
Pain: Moderate to severe pain that doesn't improve with over-the-counter medication is a concern.
Infection Signs: Redness, pus drainage, or fever at the injection site can indicate infection. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
If you have any concerns after your lip filler procedure, don't hesitate to contact your practitioner. They can assess the situation and provide a solution.
When To Expect Your Final Lip Filler Results
We know you're eager to flaunt those beautiful new lips. You'll see an improvement right away, but it can take up to two weeks for all the swelling to go down and the filler to settle completely.
The filler needs time to integrate with your natural tissues. Once that happens, around the two-week mark, you'll see the final shape, size, and definition of your lips.
If you have any concerns during this time, schedule a follow-up appointment with your practitioner. They can assess your lips and discuss any tweaks or adjustments you might want.
Schedule Your Lip Filler Consultation at Star Medispa
Let's discuss your ideal lips. At Star Medispa, we know fuller lips are a popular choice. Our practitioners offer the best lip filler treatments to enhance your look and confidence.
During the consultation, we'll focus on your desired lip shape, size, and volume. We'll consider your facial features and overall style. Based on this, we'll suggest the best filler type and amount to achieve your goals. We'll explain the procedure, possible side effects, and the healing process. Finally, we'll give you lip filler aftercare instructions.
Schedule a consultation with us today and achieve your dream lips.