It’s increasingly common to see women sharing their before-and-after results of lip fillers with hyaluronic acid on social media. In many cases, the final look can appear exaggerated, with lips looking unnaturally swollen. This often leads to hesitation among those who wish to enhance their lips naturally, fearing their results might look overly plump, unnatural, or oversized. These concerns are not unfounded, as swelling after lip fillers can sometimes be discouraging.
A common misconception is that the appearance of lips immediately after hyaluronic acid fillers represents the final result. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Swelling is most pronounced during the first few days after the procedure and does not reflect the final outcome. Over time, the swelling gradually subsides, and the lips settle into their intended shape and size.
The extent of swelling or bruising depends on several factors, including the amount of filler used, the size and shape of your lips, and how your body responds to the injection process. While the initial swelling can seem intense, patience is key, as the final result is typically much more natural and aligned with expectations.
How to choose the right type of material?
There are various types of lip fillers, and the choice depends on your facial anatomy and structure. The specialist performing the injection should consider the size, shape, and texture of your lips, as well as the overall harmony of your face. For instance, if your lips already have satisfactory volume and a symmetrical, well-defined shape, a softer filler that attracts more water is often chosen. This creates a hydrated, plump appearance. On the other hand, if your lips lack structure or are asymmetrical, and the goal is to address these aesthetic concerns, a firmer filler may be selected to build the necessary structure before correcting any pre-existing volume loss. Achieving the best results requires a comprehensive evaluation of factors such as age, tissue consistency, lip structure, and desired outcomes. This personalized approach ensures natural, balanced, and harmonious enhancements that align with your unique features.
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Why does swelling appear after lip fillers?
Swelling is a natural bodily response to any tissue disruption or trauma. When fillers are injected into the lips, the needle or atraumatic cannula disrupts the tissues and blood vessels, prompting the body to send inflammatory cells to the area as part of the healing process. Additionally, fillers—often made of hyaluronic acid—attract water to the injection site, potentially exacerbating the edema.
Post-treatment care, such as applying ice, can help mitigate the swelling. However, the extent of swelling can vary based on several factors, including the injection technique, the type and volume of filler used, and individual patient characteristics such as sensitivity to hyaluronic acid. Pre-existing conditions, like blood clotting disorders or the use of blood-thinning medications, may also increase the likelihood of swelling and bruising.
What happens after treatment?
There is no way to avoid it, as one thing is certain: you will definitely experience swelling after lip fillers. Numbing the lips with local lidocaine before the injection can contribute to swelling. While the extent of swelling varies for each patient, it is entirely normal, especially in individuals with more sensitive skin. Keep in mind that the lips are punctured multiple times during the procedure, prompting the body to increase blood flow to the area to aid healing. Additionally, hyaluronic acid fillers attract water, which can lead to further tissue swelling.
To minimize swelling, avoid exercise for 24 to 48 hours after the procedure, as physical activity can exacerbate it. If you wish to stay active, opt for a gentle walk instead. Swelling generally peaks within the first 4 days and then gradually subsides. By the end of the first week, most swelling and bruising should have disappeared.
After two weeks, schedule a follow-up appointment with your practitioner to evaluate the shape, size, and feel of your lips. This is also an opportunity to discuss any concerns. Before addressing minor irregularities or adding more filler, wait an additional two weeks to allow the filler to fully integrate into the tissues.
Final results typically become visible between the fourth and sixth week post-treatment, as the filler fully settles into the lips. At this stage, you’ll be able to assess whether the outcome meets your expectations. If you plan to add more filler, wait at least eight weeks before your next session to ensure proper healing and integration.
What you can do to minimize swelling after lip fillers
While swelling after hyaluronic acid lip fillers is an expected and temporary reaction, there are several steps patients can take to minimize and manage it effectively. Applying a cold compress wrapped in fabric to the lips for short periods immediately after the procedure can help reduce swelling and discomfort, but direct contact with the skin should be avoided. Adecuate hydration supports the body’s natural healing process, and keeping your head elevated during sleep can prevent fluid accumulation in the lips, reducing overnight swelling.
Avoid touching or pressing on your lips, as this can worsen swelling or displace the filler. Strenuous physical activities that increase blood circulation and may exacerbate swelling should be avoided for the first 48 hours. Additionally, steering clear of alcohol and salty foods is recommended, as both can lead to fluid retention and intensify swelling.
If you’re ever unsure about the progress of your lip swelling, don’t hesitate to contact the specialist who performed the injection. Most swelling is entirely normal and temporary—and you might even miss the fullness and plumpness of the swollen lips once it subsides!
For those seeking a stunning yet natural enhancement in lip volume and symmetry correction, Dr. Maria Skolarikou, a Plastic Surgeon in Athens with a private practice in Kolonaki, is the trusted expert to consult. With an in-depth understanding of facial anatomy and signature injection techniques that minimize tissue trauma, Dr. Skolarikou can deliver personalized, ideal results that perfectly align with your aesthetic goals.
