How to reduce swelling after lip fillers

Lip Fillers, West Malling, Kent

Plump and well-defined lips have become a coveted feature in recent years, leading to an increase in the popularity of lip fillers. Whether you desire a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic transformation, lip fillers can help you achieve the perfect pout. Read on to understand exactly how lip fillers work and how to reduce swelling after treatment, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience.

What are lip fillers and how do they work?

Lip fillers involve the injection of dermal filler to plump and alter the shape and definition of the lips. The best products will contain hyaluronic acid and they will be designed for the lip area. These include products such as Juvederm’s Volbella or Volift, and Teoxane’s Kiss. Once in the lip, the filler will integrate with the lip tissue and hold onto moisture, because that’s what hyaluronic acid does, and this will provide the extra plumpness and hydration in your lips. The best lip filler product for you will depend on your overall concerns. For more mature patients, Restylane is excellent for reshaping and redefining the border or “scaffolding” of the lips that fades over time. And in younger patients with thinner lips, we are more likely to use Juvéderm Volbella for volume and oomph.

Why does swelling occur after lip fillers?

Swelling and inflammation are natural bodily responses to minor trauma resulting from injections. When the body detects injury, the immune system triggers a response that involves the influx of fluid and white blood cells to the affected area. This leads to swelling, redness, and heat due to increased blood flow. Since the lips have numerous blood vessels, the inflammation can be more pronounced compared to other injection sites.

The extent of swelling can also be influenced by the type of filler used. Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers, in particular, tend to cause more swelling. This is because hyaluronic acid particles have a water-attracting property, acting like magnets and attracting water molecules up to 1,000 times their molecular weight. It’s important to note that the duration and intensity of swelling can vary between individuals. Some people may experience swelling for only a few hours, while others may have it last for several days.

How to reduce swelling after lip fillers

Here are a few helpful tips to minimize swelling and ensure a speedy recovery: 

• Apply Cold Compresses: Immediately after the treatment, apply a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the treated area. The cold temperature causes vasoconstriction and is an easy and effective way to reduce swelling. You can lightly ice the area for up to 48 hours following filler placement, but be sure to wrap any ice pack in paper towels or a towel to avoid injury to the skin.
• Elevate Your Head: Try and maintain your head above heart level. It can help to sleep with an extra pillow at night to elevate your head and decrease swelling.
• Avoid Heat and Strenuous Activity: For the first 24-48 hours following your treatment, avoid hot baths, saunas, steam rooms, and intense physical activities. Heat and excessive blood flow can exacerbate swelling and prolong the recovery process.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential to maintain hydration and promote the healing process. It also helps to flush out toxins from your body, reducing the risk of swelling.
• Do not over-massage your lips: Avoid over-massaging your injection sites. Moderate to severe pressure and manipulation in the area can not only move the filler but also may exacerbate any existing swelling.
• Follow Aftercare Instructions: Your practitioner will provide you with specific aftercare instructions tailored to your treatment. It’s crucial to follow them diligently, which may include avoiding certain foods, products, or activities that could irritate or inflame the treated area.

If you’d like more help, or to discuss whether lip fillers are right for you, click here to book a consultation or to enquire.