Lip Filler Swelling – How Long Does Healing Take?

In the UK, lip fillers have become a highly sought-after cosmetic procedure, widely favoured by women across various age groups. The desire to achieve a fuller, more enhanced appearance of the lips, or to counteract the signs of ageing on the lips, has significantly contributed to its popularity. The use of temporary hyaluronic acid dermal fillers stands out as a preferred choice due to their effectiveness and minimal invasiveness.

This treatment is recognised for its ability to provide substantial improvements with relatively little intervention. However, it is crucial to understand that, like all cosmetic procedures, lip filler treatments are accompanied by a period of recovery and carry certain risks, albeit small.

When opting for lip fillers, it’s essential to be informed about what follows the treatment. This handy Centre for Surgery guide aims to provide a detailed understanding of the post-treatment phase. This includes an overview of the downtime needed, the normal course of recovery, and the potential risks and side effects that may occur. This knowledge is vital for anyone considering lip fillers, ensuring they are well-prepared and can make an informed decision about undergoing this cosmetic procedure at our Baker Street clinic in London.

How much do lips swell after treatment?

Swelling following a lip filler procedure is a typical bodily reaction to the slight trauma inflicted by the injections. This response is part of the body’s defense mechanism, where any disruption to the skin’s integrity triggers the mobilisation of white blood cells to the affected area. This process leads to swelling, coupled with redness and warmth due to increased blood flow. The lips, being densely packed with blood vessels, are particularly prone to this reaction. Additionally, hyaluronic acid, commonly used in dermal fillers, exacerbates swelling because of its property as a humectant, drawing and holding moisture up to a thousand times its weight.

Lip Swelling in the First 24 Hours: Initial Response

At Centre for Surgery, our experience has shown that lip swelling is most pronounced during the first day post-treatment. Although the lips may appear significantly swollen at this stage, this is a normal and expected part of the healing process. Generally, patients should see a gradual reduction in swelling over the next 48 hours.

Lip Swelling in the First Week: Ongoing Changes

The initial week post-treatment is critical, as swelling typically reaches its peak during this period. It’s common for the lips to appear uneven at this stage; however, this is more often a result of inflammation rather than the filler itself. Alongside swelling, patients might also notice bruising around the third or fourth day. Any lumps that appear are usually temporary and should subside by the end of the week, as the filler settles and inflammation reduces.

Lip Swelling After Two Weeks: Settling and Final Results

By the two-week mark, a significant decrease in swelling should be evident. This period is crucial as it often reveals the final outcome of the lip filler treatment. If there’s any persistent swelling beyond this timeframe, it’s advisable to contact us for an evaluation. Persistent swelling may indicate a unique response to the treatment, requiring professional assessment and possibly further intervention.

Understanding Potential Risks Associated with Lip Filler Treatments

Lip filler treatments, while generally safe and effective, do carry certain risks that patients should be aware of. Knowledge of these risks enables individuals to make informed decisions and take necessary precautions.

Lip Asymmetry: Skill is Key

Lip asymmetry post-treatment is a possible complication. The likelihood of this occurring largely depends on the skill and experience of the aesthetic practitioner. While careful selection of a qualified practitioner can significantly reduce this risk, sometimes a follow-up procedure may be necessary to correct any asymmetry that arises.

Bruising and Bleeding: A Common Occurrence

Bruising and bleeding are among the most frequent side effects following lip filler treatments. The lips have a rich vascular network, and the procedure inevitably affects these capillaries, even when performed by highly skilled practitioners. Clinical studies have shown varying incidences of bruising post-treatment, with some reporting it in up to 25% of cases, while others suggest a higher prevalence of up to 70%. To minimise this risk, it’s advisable to avoid blood-thinning medications like ibuprofen or aspirin before undergoing the procedure.

RELATED: Lip Filler Bruising – How Long Does it Last and How to Minimise it

Excessive Swelling: Part of the Healing Process

Swelling is a normal response to lip filler injections and is often part of the desired outcome. However, it’s common to experience excessive swelling, particularly in the first week or two following the procedure. This swelling is usually temporary and part of the body’s natural healing process.

Lumps and Bumps: Importance of Technique

The formation of lumps or bumps in the lips can be a consequence of poor injection technique. This risk underscores the importance of choosing an experienced injector, as they are more adept at minimising such complications.

Vascular Occlusion: A Rare but Serious Risk

Vascular occlusion, although extremely rare, is a serious complication where the filler is accidentally injected into a blood vessel. This can lead to tissue necrosis if not promptly addressed. Awareness of this risk highlights the importance of seeking treatment from reputable clinics with highly trained practitioners.

RELATED: Permanent Lip Fillers – Why You Should Avoid Them

Effective Strategies for Reducing Swelling After Lip Filler Treatments

Post-treatment care is crucial in managing and reducing lip filler swelling. At Centre for Surgery, we recommend several effective measures to ensure a smooth recovery and minimize discomfort.

Avoiding Excessive Heat and Strenuous Exercise

One of the key tips to lessen swelling is to steer clear of high-temperature environments like saunas or steam rooms for at least 48 hours after the treatment. Similarly, intense physical activities, especially those that lead to excessive sweating, should be avoided. Instead, opting for low-impact exercises such as gentle walking is advisable during this recovery phase.

Hydration and Dietary Considerations

Staying well-hydrated is vital in supporting the body’s natural healing process. Drinking plenty of water helps to reduce swelling and aids in the overall recovery. Concurrently, it’s beneficial to limit the intake of salt in your diet, as excessive salt can exacerbate swelling.

Cold Compress Application

Applying a cold compress or a wrapped ice pack to the area can significantly aid in reducing swelling. However, it is important to never place ice directly onto the lips as this can cause further irritation or damage to the sensitive post-treatment skin.

Considerations for Sleeping and Seasonal Effects

The way you rest post-treatment can also impact swelling. It’s recommended to sleep on your back or with the head slightly elevated using pillows to avoid putting pressure on the lips. Additionally, the time of year can influence swelling, with patients often experiencing more pronounced swelling during the warmer summer months.

Understanding Swelling as a Common Side Effect

It’s important to remember that swelling or inflammation is the most common side effect of lip fillers. Typically, this swelling is temporary and should resolve entirely within the first week or two after the procedure. Being aware of this normal response and following these guidelines can help ensure a comfortable and speedy recovery.