Should You Be Worried About Lip Filler Swelling?

Lip fillers and injections first came on the scene a while ago, but since they first appeared, they have had a major glow-up. What was once a procedure only available to the uber-wealthy (and the risk-takers – lip fillers used to be relatively dangerous), is now a minimally invasive procedure that everyone from old to young has gotten to achieve a desired pout, per Vida Aesthetic Medicine.

In fact, so many people are opting for lip filler that the amount of patients seeking this treatment is equal to those looking for Botox. Dr. Cory Togerson, a facial plastic surgeon, attributes this to social media, where influencers are touting their plump lips, specifically the younger generations, and others are hoping to get the same look. And while lip filler is a quick and easy procedure — according to The Cleveland Clinic, the entire process is about 30 minutes long — it can come with side effects. The biggest worry people often have is swelling — here's how to know whether or not to worry and what you can do to minimize it.

According to Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified dermatologist, swelling after lip filler is not only common, but happens pretty much immediately after the procedure is complete (via Insider). The worst day for swelling is usually the day after, and this is when many people may start to freak out each time they look in the mirror. Along with the swelling, people may experience bruising, which is also a common side effect. Every day after will get better and better, and after about a week, your swelling should go completely down.

Danielle Pensa, PA-C, a board-certified physician assistant and aesthetic injector, told Byrdie to give your swelling about two weeks to go away. If you start to notice anything odd going on or the swelling is not reducing on its own, you can follow up with your doctor. The most important thing to look for is bumps in your lip line, which is a sign that the filler did not go into the tissue the way it should. A simple visit to the doctor, who will massage the filler in correctly, can fix this. And while the majority of people will not have any complications, there are some things you can do to diminish the swelling after injection.

In order to have less swelling after getting lip filler, you need to start doing certain things before your procedure too. According to Dr. Michele Green, it can be beneficial to avoid taking any blood thinners like Advil or Aleve, as well as ditching supplements like Vitamin D or fish oil about 10 to 14 days before your procedure. These medicines and supplements can increase your chances of swelling and even bleeding, which can lead to worse bruising. Danielle Pensa also recommends abstaining from alcohol at least 24 hours beforehand, avoiding all dental work or teeth cleanings for two weeks prior, and ensuring that you are healthy — if you do have a cold or infection, you'll need to reschedule. On the morning of, make sure you eat and drink a good amount as well.

On the day of your procedure, Dr. Shari Sperling, DO, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Sperling Dermatology, recommends taking Arnica, per Byrdie, which can help with bruising (consult your own doctor about this). Once you are finished, she recommends avoiding your lips as much as you can other than to apply Aquaphor. It's also important to stay hydrated, continue to avoid alcohol, and skip any intense exercise or activity.