Q. How long are lips swollen after filler?
A. At Kingsway Dermatology & Cosmetic Centre, we begin with a topical numbing gel applied well to the area and rest for at least 15 minutes. This improves comfort greatly. Cannula delivery minimizes discomfort and provides a base for lip volume as well as increasing the safety of this injection site. Very small expertly placed needle injections may be used to create sharper borders for the vermillion edge and surface of the pink lip. Our goal is to use these techniques to minimize potential bruising, but there still remains a risk. We recommend having your lip augmentation with an experienced doctor and master injector as this area is slightly more prone to swelling and bruising. Our mission is to provide optimal care so our board-certified dermatologists are master injectors who travel the world to learn and teach and can assure the highest standards of safety minimizing risk.
Lips are supported by the tissue around them
Lip augmentation is often not considered in isolation. For those in their 40’s and up, restructuring the smile lines, corners of the mouth (both upper and lower), and the hollows of the marionette area, greatly improve the shape and duration of the lip augmentation process. Dr. Fisher and Dr. Poulos can expertly recommend a plan to create a balanced profile of the lower central face, including, the chin. Restructuring with HA filler decreasing peri oral tissue mobility is thought to reduce the ageing process in this area.
How to Minimize Swelling and Bruising
You will have some swelling and even possibly a bruise after treatment. To reduce the risk of bruising, avoid taking the following for 10 days before your treatment, and 1-2 days after your treatment:
- Alcohol, particularly red and rose wine
- Aspirin, NSAIDS (Advil/Ibuprofen, Naproxen, Aleve, Motrin), and other blood thinners – unless necessary for medical conditions
NSAID-containing products (Midol, Excedrin, cold medicine) – unless necessary for medical conditions - If you need pain medicine in the week leading up to your treatment, take Tylenol if possible.
For additional information on pre and post-care, you can refer to our patient resources here: https://kingswaydermatology.com/patient-resources/
If you are particularly concerned about swelling after lip fillers we recommend drinking plenty of fluids and stay hydrated, consider taking arnica tablets in the days prior and using arnica gel afterwards. You can also load up on bromelain which is found abundantly in a pineapple so it’s a good idea to eat lots of fruits and vegetables. You can ice off and on to the treated area for about an hour after and keep your head elevated to reduce swelling during sleep.
