ANESTHETIC / NUMBING

An anesthetic and/or lidocaine within the filler are used to keep you comfortable during treatment. Sensation will gradually return over the next 1–2 hours, and some areas may wear off faster than others—this is normal. Please avoid hot drinks or applying heat to the area until full sensation has returned.

SWELLING

Swelling is expected and often most noticeable in the first 24–48 hours, especially in the morning. During this time, your lips may look fuller or slightly uneven, and mild firmness is a normal part of the healing process. Sleeping on your back with your head elevated for the first few nights can help reduce morning swelling. If swelling feels significant or uncomfortable, an oral antihistamine (such as Benadryl at night or a non-drowsy option during the day) may provide relief.

BRUISING

Bruising may appear immediately or become more visible over the next few days, lasting up to a week or longer. Arnica gel or Arnica tablets may help reduce discoloration. Arnica tablets are available for purchase at the clinic for $14. Once any tenderness has subsided, makeup can be used to conceal bruising.

ACTIVITY

For the first 24 hours, avoid strenuous exercise, swimming, heavy kissing, heat exposure, saunas, and any pressure or manipulation of the lips.

PAIN

Mild soreness or tenderness is normal during the first few days, and using ice or Tylenol can help ease discomfort. However, sharp, intense, or persistent pain that does not improve is not normal and may indicate a more serious complication.

ASYMMETRY

It is very common to experience temporary asymmetry after lip filler. Unevenness, small bumps, or subtle differences in shape are almost always related to early swelling, fluid shifts, or temporary lumpiness as the filler begins to integrate. Thoughtful consideration is always taken during treatment to ensure balanced placement and equal amounts injected on each side; however, the healing process itself can create short-term irregularities. These typically settle on their own as swelling resolves and the filler softens over the next 2 weeks.

MEDICATIONS & SUPPLEMENTS

For soreness, you may take Tylenol (Acetaminophen) if you are not allergic. Avoid NSAIDs such as Ibuprofen, Motrin, Aleve, and aspirin for the first 24 hours, as they may increase bruising. Avoid excessive alcohol or blood-thinning supplements (garlic, fish oil, vitamin E) for the first day if possible.

HEALING EXPECTATIONS

Lip filler takes about 2 weeks to fully settle. During this time, it’s common to feel temporary lumpiness or firmness as the filler integrates into the tissue. These changes are part of the normal settling process, and final shape, smoothness, and softness should only be evaluated after this period. While filler is not permanent, many patients enjoy their results for 12–18 months or even longer, depending on their metabolism and the product used.

WHEN TO CONTACT US

Please contact the clinic immediately if you experience severe or increasing pain, blanching or whitening of the skin, unusual discoloration, spreading redness, severe bruising, or any symptoms that feel concerning or out of the ordinary.