Lip Filler Aftercare: What Not to Do After Lip Fillers

Introduction

Though having lip fillers is a great way to start adding some more volume, it’s important to know that the procedure itself is just the beginning of something more significant, the lip filler aftercare tips. It is essential to keep up with the results and make them last as long as possible. Not following aftercare guidelines can also cause long lasting swelling, bruising or infections. The following guide will walk you through what to do post lip filler treatment, what not to do, how to handle the swelling and when you’re looking at seeing your final look.

Why lip filler aftercare matters?

Aftercare is important for a few reasons. Primarily it aids in the healing process, and ensures the filler stays where you put it. Dermal fillers injected need 48 hours to settle. Incorrect care, such as the habit of touching your lips too often or taking activities that cause your blood vessels to rush do interfere with this process. In a nutshell, the better aftercare the better outcomes you will likely have from your treatment.

• Immediate aftercare: what to do after your treatment. The first 24 to 48 hours following treatment are your most delicate period with lip injections. Your body is in the healing process and how you take care of your lips during this time will greatly affect your outcome.
• Keep it cool. Your lips will be tender and swelling right after the process. Gently apply the ice pack only for 10 mins at a time to your lips to avoid swelling. However, be careful not to press so hard that you move the filler.
• Stay hydrated. Hydrating your body will aid in quick healing of the lips and maintaining moisture to keep them plumped up. Stay hydrated and avoid harsh acidic or salty foods as it could burn on the lips.
• Don’t touch or rub your lips. When it comes to your lips you might have a natural inclination to want to touch or massage this area but try not to. This can result in the filler to move and cause asymmetry if you touch the treated area too early.
• Sleep with your head elevated. To keep your lips from swelling when you wake up in the morning, try to sleep with your head elevated. Rest with your head propped up by extra pillows.
• Avoid steam rooms and saunas. For the first 48 hours post-treatment, it is advisable to avoid high heat such as steam rooms, saunas or hot exercise classes as this may worsen swelling.
• Use prescribed medicines. Remember, not all pain medications are safe for everyone, aspirin or a blood thinner like ibuprofen should be avoided, Tylenol is usually safe.

Long-term care: maintaining your lip filler results

After the first of few days when swelling has gone down, you can focus on what to expect after lip filler treatment over the next month. The point is to be a little gentle on your lips, and not to overuse or break down your lip filler injection faster.

• Hydrate regularly. One of the most universal fillers is hyaluronic acid dermal filler, which binds to water. When you are well hydrated your dry lips will look smooth and plump. Lip balm can be used to prevent dry lips, especially if you are wearing lipstick and it’s the cold season.
• Protect your lips from the sun. UV rays can cause your filler to break down faster because sun exposure degrades dermal fillers. Apply a lip balm with SPF on top if you are out in the sun, to protect your lips and prolong your results.
• Avoid excessive pressure. Avoid activities like aggressive kissing, using a straw repeatedly, or mashing your lips together. Remembering the small things can help with your filler lasting.
• Eat more water enriched foods. Always keep yourself hydrated with water-based fruits and vegetables and some low salt diet as too much sodium might lead to accumulation of more fluid in the body.

What to avoid after your lip filler treatment?

What you should not do after getting lip fillers is just as critical as understanding what to do. We highlight a few things for you to steer clear of:

• Don’t drink alcohol. It has the ability to thin your blood, so it can increase swelling and bruising. If you drink, it is advisable to do so for at least the first 24-48 hours after treatment.
• Don’t smoke or vape. Smoking and vaping can slow the healing process and increase your chances of contracting an infection. Furthermore, since the filling is repeatedly puffed on this can create a lumpy application of your filler.
• Don’t engage in heavy exercise. The elevation of your heart rate as well as the increase in blood flow circulation associated with exercising, can in fact increase inflammation. Take a few days off from the gym and do light activities instead.
• Don’t wear heavy lip products. You can wear a hydrating lip balm for the first 24 hours but avoid heavy lipsticks or glosses until your lips are softer. Putting it on will irritate your lips and pressure can cause infection.
• Don’t drink from a straw. Air pressure, like suction when you’re drinking through a straw, can stress your lips and encourage the filler to migrate. Try to drink from a cup for the first day or two after your procedure.
• Managing swelling and bruising. Although the swelling is a natural part of the lip filler healing process, it can be quite uncomfortable and sometimes even embarrassing.
• Use cold compresses. Applying a cold pack can help to minimise the swelling and calmness on the treatment site. You should then leave it on for 10 minutes each time. Just be careful not to press too hard as that may move the filler.
• Take prescribed medication. Aloe vera, vitamin K, or arnica creams are natural remedies that reduce swelling and bruising. Do consult with your doctor before using any new products post procedure.
• Avoid salty foods. Salt can cause your body to retain water and that would lead to even more swelling. Continue eating healthy foods and a low-salt diet for the first few days post-treatment.

When to contact your aesthetic consultant

Some swelling and bruising is normal after getting lip fillers, but there are a few signs that will mean you should get in contact with your aesthetic practitioner:

• Too much swelling and bruising: If your lips are very swollen and bruised even after a week, something could be wrong.
• Infection: If there is redness, warmth and pus from the injection site- these may be warning signs of an infection. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult with your provider immediately.
• Bumps or irregularity: Some lumps can be due to the filler settling, mild ones are normal, if after two weeks you still essentially have a lump or one side is okay and the other not so much it may need a follow-up appointment.

When will you see the final look?

Although your lips will look different right away after filler, this is not the end result of the treatment. It will take days for the swelling to go down and your lips may not get to a good final result until two weeks. Your lips should show the final result of the treatment after this period. At the end of this time, depending on which and how much lip filler is used, your lips should look as full as they are at 2 weeks.

FAQs

• Can you eat after lip filler injections?
  After having lip fillers, you can eat but it is best to stick to soft food that doesn’t require a great deal of chewing. Do not try to consume something spicy as it will cause irritated lips.
• Can you consume alcohol after lip filler injections?
  It is advisable not to drink alcohol at least 1 to 2 days after the treatment. Avoid alcohol as it can cause more bruising and swelling.
• Can you smoke or vape after lip filler injections?
  To allow the wounds from your procedure to heal properly, the best thing to do is avoid smoking or vaping for at least 48 hours after the filler placement. Either will slow down your recovery and increase the potential for infection.
• Can you shower after lip filler injections?
  Showering is allowed, however please refrain from hot water exposure or steam rooms for the first 24 hours. Applying heat can make those inflamed areas swell even more.
• Can you exercise after lip filler injections?
  The optimal time to avoid heavy and strenuous exercise is at least 24-48 hours after the treatment. Heavy sweating can lead to more swelling and bruising at the injection site.
• Can you wear lipstick or lip balm after lip filler injections?
  After your treatment, you can wear a light, moisturising lip balm but avoid heavy lipsticks or glosses in the first 24 hours to decrease the probability of infection.
• Can you kiss after lip fillers?
  You should not kiss for a good 24-48 hours in order to allow the filler to settle, and also refrain from putting undue pressure on lips.

Get the perfect pout with Harley Street’s expert lip Fillers

We at Harley Street Skin Clinic are specialised in offering the best lip filler treatments to make you achieve the look that you desire. From achieving a subtle enhancement to a more striking pout, our skilled practitioners will help you along the way ensuring that you are well informed on the best lip filler procedure tailored for you. Call today to set up a consultation today and get the appearance you always dreamed of.