The Ups and Downs of Lip Filler Recovery, Part 2: What to Expect and How to Address 5 Common Concerns
Getting lip fillers can be an exciting step towards achieving fuller, more defined lips. However, the journey doesn’t end when you leave the treatment chair. The recovery process comes with its ups and downs, and it’s normal to experience some side effects as your lips heal and adjust to their new shape. If you take a look at Reddit’s r/cosmeticsurgery, you’re able to see that while lip filler is an extremely popular procedure, many patients feel unprepared for the healing process and question some of the most common side effects of filler injectables.
At Clemens Face + Body in Coolidge Corner, Boston, we prioritize transparency and patient education to ensure a smooth recovery after any filler treatment. In this blog post, we’ll address five of the most common questions about lip filler recovery to help ease any concerns.
P.S.: We wrote a detailed blog post about the ups and downs of lip filler recovery, using a real-life patient example in part 1 of our lip filler recovery series.
1: “IS THIS NORMAL BRUISING OR A VASCULAR OCCLUSION?”
This question is likely the most commonly asked question during the lip filler recovery phase, and for good reason.
A vascular occlusion is a high-risk complication that is caused when filler accidentally enters a blood vessel, potentially blocking blood flow. While on the other hand, bruising is a common and expected side effect of any injectable treatment (whether that’s receiving a vaccine or cosmetic procedure). Most bruises will fade within a few days to a week and can be minimized with cold compresses and over-the-counter remedies like arnica. While a vascular occlusion may appear as a bruise to begin with, but it does not self-resolve and can worsen, causing skin necrosis (skin dying as a result of lack of blood flow and oxygenation).
Signs of a vascular occlusion may include severe pain, pale or blotchy skin, and prolonged discoloration that doesn’t improve. If you suspect this, seek immediate attention from your injector as time is of the essence and dissolving needs to be done promptly.
A visual of what a vascular occlusion may present as, marked by skin color changes that spread beyond the lip border.
2: “WHY DO MY LIPS LOOK Asymmetrical?”
Another extremely common question and concern, and to put it simply, it boils down to normal inflammation and swelling from anesthesia, poking/prodding, and filler being deposited in a small space. During the first week, it is highly common for the lips to look asymmetrical and even scarily so, where one part of the lips may bulge outwards, leading to what looks like the dreadful ‘duck lips.’ The good news is that in most cases, the swelling will self-resolve over time and with the use of comfort measures, like sleeping with your head elevated the first 24 hours, applying ice, and refraining from touching the lips.
However, if the asymmetry persists beyond two weeks, it may be due to poor filler placement. In such cases, a follow-up appointment is recommended.
3: “WILL THESE Lumps and Bumps GO AWAY ON THEIR OWN?”
Small lumps or bumps are a common part of the healing process and can occur as the filler settles. These are often caused by the natural swelling and firmness of the treated area immediately after the procedure.
Typically, these lumps will smooth out on their own within the first 2-4 weeks as the filler integrates into the tissues. Gentle massage may help, but it’s best to consult with your injector before attempting this yourself. If lumps persist, your provider can use specialized techniques to dissolve or redistribute the filler if necessary.
4: “Is It Normal for My Lips to Feel Tender?”
Tenderness, soreness, or sensitivity around the lips is entirely normal in the days following your filler treatment. This happens because the lips are rich in blood vessels and nerve endings, making them more sensitive than other areas of the face.
You may feel a bit sore when eating, smiling, or even touching your lips, but this should improve within a week. Using cold compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen can help ease discomfort. If tenderness persists or becomes severe, again it is best to reach out to your injector for guidance.
5: “I CAN FEEL A LUMP WHEN I RUN MY TONGUE OVER MY LIP, IS THIS NORMAL?”
Yes, feeling a small lump or bump in your lips after getting fillers is quite common, especially in the first week or two after treatment. This is typically due to the filler still settling into place and can happen because the lips are a dense, sensitive area. As the swelling subsides and the filler integrates into the tissue, most lumps will naturally smooth out on their own. You might notice them more when running your tongue over your lips because the sensation is heightened. However, if a lump feels particularly hard or doesn't improve after two weeks, reach out to your provider for a follow-up.
Final Thought: Patience is Key
Recovering from lip filler treatment can come with some unexpected twists, but with the right knowledge and support, you can navigate it smoothly. At Clemens Face + Body in Coolidge Corner, Boston, we prioritize patient care, ensuring that your journey to fuller, beautifully balanced lips is a positive one. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned pro, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re considering lip fillers or have questions about your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a personalized consultation.
