Just had lip filler? Lips swell more than any other area, so here is a day-by-day guide to what to expect, and the few signs that mean you should call us straight away.
In the video, Bina, one of our nurses, talks you through it. Everything she covers is written out below so you can come back to it.
Your aftercare, step by step
First 24 hours
Expect swelling, tenderness and maybe some bruising: it is normal, and lips can look bigger and a little uneven today. Use a cold compress wrapped in a clean cloth for 10 minutes at a time. No lipstick or lip products for 12 hours (a plain lip balm from a clean tube is fine). Avoid alcohol, exercise, very hot drinks, saunas and sunbeds. Try not to kiss, purse your lips or drink through a straw.
Days 2 to 3
Swelling usually peaks on day 2, often first thing in the morning. Sleep on your back with your head slightly raised. Keep drinking plenty of water. Don't massage your lips unless we asked you to.
Days 4 to 14
Swelling settles and lips soften. Small lumps you can feel but not see are common and settle as the filler integrates. Avoid dental treatment, facials and flying long-haul for two weeks if you can. If you are prone to cold sores and feel one starting, tell us: we may suggest an antiviral from your pharmacy.
Day 14
This is when you see your true result. Please wait until then before deciding whether you would like any more.
Your review
If a review was booked, it is at around two weeks, so we can check the shape and balance together.
What's normal
- Swelling, especially on day 2 and in the mornings
- Bruising that fades in 5 to 10 days
- Tenderness when you touch or eat
- Small lumps you can feel but not see
When to call us
- Swelling, heat or redness that is getting worse after day 3
- A lump you can see, or one that is hard and painful
- A cold sore starting
- Anything that worries you
Call the clinic on 020 7252 3333, or our 24-hour line on 07414 163998.
When it is urgent
Call us straight away, day or night, if you notice severe or increasing pain, skin on or around the lips turning pale, white, blotchy, purple or grey, or the area feeling cold. These can be signs of a blocked blood vessel and need treating quickly. If you have any change in your vision, call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
Need a doctor or a health check?
Our private GP, Dr Ayaz Tokhi, is on hand for video appointments from £75 (telephone £65), and we offer private blood tests at the clinic from £69.50. See our health services and book.
Thinking about treatment rather than recovering from it? Read more about lip filler at our Brentwood clinic.
This is general aftercare information. Always follow any specific advice your clinician gave you on the day. If you were treated at another clinic, contact them first, as products and techniques vary.
Results vary from person to person. Every treatment starts with a consultation with a registered clinician.