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Having lip fillers is an exciting step for many people who want to refresh their appearance or add gentle definition to their lips. While the treatment itself is usually quick and straightforward, the aftercare you follow in the days afterwards plays a major role in how smoothly your lips heal and how well your results settle.

Most patients experience mild swelling, sensitivity, or a feeling of fullness in the first 24–48 hours. These sensations are completely normal and typically settle on their own as the filler begins to integrate with the natural tissues in your lips. Knowing what to do—and what to avoid—can make your recovery more comfortable and help ensure your final result looks soft, smooth, and natural.

Below is a simple and supportive guide to lip filler aftercare to help you feel confident during the healing period.

What You Should Do After Lip Filler Treatment

1. Apply a Cool Compress

Cooling the area is one of the easiest and most effective ways to soothe early swelling. A wrapped ice pack or chilled cloth held gently against the lips for short intervals can help reduce puffiness and provide comfort.

Avoid placing ice directly onto your lips. Instead, wrap it in a clean cloth or towel to prevent irritation. Applying the compress for 5–10 minutes at a time throughout the first day can make a noticeable difference.

2. Stay Hydrated

Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers rely on water to achieve their soft, natural-looking plumpness. HA is a substance that naturally occurs in the body, helping tissues remain hydrated. When used as a dermal filler, it draws in moisture and holds it within the lips, creating a gentle lift and smooth finish.

Staying well hydrated encourages the filler to settle evenly and supports the healing process. A scientific review published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery highlights HA’s strong ability to retain moisture and improve the appearance of treated areas.

Aim to drink water regularly throughout the day, especially during the first week. This can help maintain a healthy balance in the tissues and contribute to a naturally refreshed appearance.

3. Keep Your Lips Clean

Keeping the lip area clean is important in the first few days after your treatment, as it helps reduce the risk of irritation. Gentle cleansing around the mouth with a mild, non-perfumed product is usually enough. Avoid scrubbing or using exfoliating products.

Be mindful when brushing your teeth, too. Use slow, gentle movements and avoid stretching the lip area more than necessary.

4. Stick to Soft Foods for the First Day

Eating soft foods during the first 24 hours can help prevent unnecessary pressure or movement around the lips. Foods such as yoghurt, soups, smoothies, and soft fruits are usually easy and comfortable choices.

5. Sleep With Your Head Slightly Elevated

Resting with an extra pillow can help minimise swelling overnight. Sleeping on your back is recommended during the first couple of nights, as this reduces pressure on the lips.

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What to Avoid for the First 24–48 Hours

Although many activities are safe after lip fillers, there are a few things it is better to avoid during the early stages of healing:

Strenuous Exercise

Exercise increases blood flow, which may worsen swelling or cause additional bruising. It is usually better to avoid gyms, high-intensity workouts, and running for at least 24–48 hours.

Alcohol

Alcohol naturally thins the blood and can make swelling or bruising more noticeable. Avoiding it for a day or two helps the lips settle more comfortably.

Very Hot Drinks and Foods

Heat can increase swelling, so try to avoid hot drinks like tea or coffee, as well as spicy foods, until the initial healing stage has passed.

Touching or Massaging the Lips

It can be tempting to check how your lips feel, but touching or pressing the area can shift the filler before it has properly settled. Let the lips heal naturally unless your clinician specifically provides guidance on gentle massage at a later stage.

Makeup Around the Lip Area

Makeup should be avoided for at least 24 hours to minimise the risk of bacteria entering the injection sites. After this period, you can return to your routine if the lips feel comfortable.

What to Expect in the Days After Treatment

Most patients notice that swelling reduces significantly within 24–72 hours. Some mild asymmetry or unevenness can occur during the early stages due to swelling—this is normal and usually resolves as the filler integrates.

Bruising may appear around the lips or mouth and can vary from light to more noticeable. This typically fades within a few days. Using a cool compress and avoiding strenuous activity can help speed up recovery.

When to Contact the Clinic

It’s normal to feel slightly anxious about changes in the first few days, especially if this is your first time having lip fillers. However, your clinician is there to support you.

You should get in touch if you notice:

• Severe or increasing pain.
• Unusual discolouration of the lips.
• Visible lumps that do not soften after several days.
• Significant swelling that worsens.
• Any symptoms that feel out of the ordinary.
• Anything that makes you feel unsure or concerned.

Most side effects settle quickly, but it’s always good to seek reassurance if needed.

Following the right aftercare helps ensure your lip fillers settle beautifully and comfortably. Simple steps—such as keeping hydrated, cooling the area, and avoiding unnecessary pressure—can make a big difference in how your lips heal.

If you ever have questions or worries during the healing process, don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic.

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