Lip Filler Swelling Stages and Aftercare

Nash Injections client with lip filler treatment.

Achieving beautifully enhanced lips with dermal fillers is a popular choice for those looking to add volume and definition. But to get the best results, proper aftercare is key.

This guide explains what to expect after lip injections, the swelling stages, and aftercare tips to help you maintain those gorgeous results.

Swelling After Lip Filler Treatment

After the filler procedure, it’s normal to experience some swelling as your body adjusts to the hyaluronic acid. Here’s a timeline of what you can expect in the days and weeks following your treatment:

Day 1: Immediate Swelling
As soon as your lip filler treatment is done, you’ll notice immediate swelling. Your lips may appear larger and even a bit uneven. 

Don’t worry—this is a common reaction as your body increases blood flow to the area to start the healing process. This initial swelling is completely normal and expected.

Days 2–4: Swelling Peaks
Swelling tends to increase over the first few days. The most noticeable swelling usually occurring on days 2 and 3. 

During this time, your lips might feel tender, inflamed, and even slightly bumpy. It’s also common for your upper lip to protrude more than your lower lip. This is all part of the body’s natural healing response.

Days 5–7: Swelling Begins to Subside
By the end of the first week, you’ll likely notice the swelling starting to go down. As the swelling decreases, you’ll begin to see the true benefits of your lip fillers. Your lips will start to look more natural and balanced as the filler integrates with your lip tissues.

Day 14: Time for a Follow-Up
Two weeks after your treatment, it’s a good idea to schedule a follow-up appointment with your provider. This allows your injector to assess how well your lips are healing and to ensure that the results are as expected. If any adjustments are needed, this is the perfect time to discuss them.

4–6 Weeks: Full Healing
Around 4 to 6 weeks after your treatment, the filler will have fully settled into your lips, and the healing process should be complete. At this point, your lips should look their best, showcasing the enhanced shape and volume that will last for the next 12 to 18 months.

Nash Injections client with lip filler treatment.

Lip Filler Aftercare 

After getting lip fillers, some tenderness is totally normal. But don’t worry—there are easy ways to help with swelling. Follow these simple aftercare tips to help your lips heal properly:

1. Use a Cold Compress
   Applying a cold compress or a wrapped ice pack to your lips can help reduce swelling. The cold works by slowing down blood flow to the area, which can minimize swelling and bruising. 

   Remember not to apply ice directly to your lips, as this can cause frostbite or a cold burn. Use the compress for 10–15 minutes at a time, several times a day.

2. Elevate Your Head While Sleeping
   When you sleep, try to prop your head up with extra pillows. Keeping your head elevated helps reduce swelling by minimizing blood flow to your lips. Avoid lying flat, and steer clear of any head-down yoga positions for the first few days.

3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Well
   Drinking plenty of water is key to helping your body heal. Staying hydrated supports your body’s natural recovery process and helps keep your lips moisturized from the inside out. 

   Incorporate fresh fruits and vegetables into your diet, which can provide essential nutrients and support healing. Avoid salty foods, as they can lead to dehydration and worsen swelling.

4. Avoid Strenuous Activity
   It’s important to avoid strenuous exercise for at least 48 hours after your treatment. Activities like running, weightlifting, or hot yoga can increase blood flow, leading to more swelling and bruising. 

   If you want to stay active, stick to light activities like walking. Keep your heart rate under 100 and avoid any extremes of temperature, such as saunas or steam rooms.

5. Skip the Makeup and Be Gentle
   For the first 24-48 hours, avoid wearing lipstick or any other makeup on your lips. Instead, use Aquaphor applied with a Q-tip to keep your lips moisturized and protect them from dryness. 

   When cleaning your face, use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser, and be gentle with your lips. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can irritate your lips and move the filler. Also, be cautious when brushing your teeth to avoid bumping your lips.

6. Avoid Heat and Sun Exposure
   Stay away from hot environments like saunas, steam rooms, and hot baths for at least 48 hours after your treatment. Heat can cause your blood vessels to expand, which can worsen swelling. 

   Also, avoid direct sun exposure for at least two weeks, as UV rays can damage your sensitive lips. After two weeks, you can start wearing SPF lip balm to protect your lips from UV damage.

7. No Smoking or Alcohol
   Smoking can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It’s best to avoid smoking for at least 48 hours after your treatment. 

   Alcohol is another substance to avoid, especially in the first 24 hours. Alcohol can cause your blood vessels to expand, which can lead to more swelling and bruising.

8. Take a Dental Break
   It’s recommended to avoid dental appointments for a few weeks after getting lip fillers. The pressure and movement involved in dental work can interfere with the settling process of the filler.

When to Contact Your Provider

While most swelling and tenderness will resolve on their own, monitor your progress and watch for any signs of complications.

If you experience recurring pain, increasing tenderness, or redness, contact your provider immediately. These could be signs of an infection or other complications that need to be addressed right away.

Before and after lip filler with Juvéderm.

Conclusion

Taking care of your lips after a filler treatment is essential for achieving the best results. By following these aftercare tips, you’ll help your lips heal properly and enjoy your enhanced look for months to come. If you have any questions or concerns during your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider.

Lip Fillers in Nashville

At our Nashville medspa, we offer top-tier aesthetic services, specializing in injectable dermal fillers. Our Advanced Injector, Hannah Morse, RN, is recognized as one of Tennessee’s top lip filler experts. Each lip augmentation treatment is carefully tailored to enhance your natural beauty for stunning yet subtle results.

Whether you're looking to add volume or define your lip shape, we can’t wait to make your lip dreams a reality. Take the first step towards your ideal look—book a free consultation today at Nash Injections by Hannah.

Author: Hannah Morse, RN
Founder, Nash Injections by Hannah

An Advanced Injector, Hannah has undergone extensive training under the guidance of top injectors in the aesthetic industry and is a certified ZO® Skin Health Specialist and Expert. Her commitment to staying informed about the latest products, techniques, studies, and protocols is a testament to her dedication to providing top-quality care.