A Simple Guide To Lip Filler Aftercare
The primary cause of aging lips is collagen deficiency—just like it is for the rest of the skin. When levels of this important protein are low, the lips get thinner and lose their definition, which is what gives them such a deflated and wrinkled appearance over time. Injectable dermal fillers such as Juvederm®, Voluma®, and Restylane® are a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that involves injecting soft substances below the surface to fill in hollow areas. Whether you want to restore aging lips to a younger appearance, improve their definition, or just want to add a little extra “oomph” to make your lips stand out in a more dramatic way than would be possible with makeup, the Nelson Dermatology team from St. Petersburg suggests dermal fillers.
Even though this facial filler treatment is fairly straightforward, low risk, and completed in just a few minutes, you still need to be aware of what you should and shouldn’t do afterward in order to optimize results. If you’re planning to have injectables for your lips, continue reading to learn what you can expect after a treatment session and how to ensure you get the best results possible.
Reduce Bruising and Swelling
With any filler injection, there’s always a risk of bruising, swelling, and reddening at the injection site. Unfortunately, areas that are most susceptible to visible signs of aging such as the lips are also the most likely areas to bruise. It’s not possible to avoid all chances of bruising from any cosmetic or medical injection—even with a perfectly performed procedure—because tiny blood vessels below the skin can be punctured by the needle. If you’re concerned about the bruising, apply topical bromelain, vitamin K, or arnica creams if your healthcare professional gives you approval to do so to minimize discoloration in the injection area. You may also be able to take arnica tablets prior to and after your procedure. Keep your head elevated on pillows to keep the swelling under control.
Apply Ice to Your Lips
You can use a cold compress or an ice pack immediately after fillers as a way of relieving any discomfort, itching, swelling, or bruising that’s caused by the needle injection. Cold compresses promote vasoconstriction.
Hydration
Drink lots of water to help your body heal faster while avoiding high sodium foods that could worsen the swelling.
Give Yourself Enough Time to Recover
If you’re planning for a special occasion, don’t get fillers the day before—especially if it’s your first time. Try to plan your appointment a week or two before the event to give your lips enough time to heal.
Don’t Apply Pressure
If you jostle your skin too much, especially in the early stages of recovery, the added volume could break down at a faster rate and distort the work that was done by your injector. You want to avoid things that could put too much pressure on your face, such as a deep cleansing brush, kissing, massaging the lips, sleeping on your face, or using a straw for several days. It usually will be fine to apply lipstick or lip liners right after having fillers, although some injectors may recommend avoiding makeup on the area for the first 24 hours.
Avoid Rigorous Exercise
If you’re accustomed to working out every day, it might be better to get in an exercise session prior to having fillers. You’ll have to avoid going to the gym or engaging in any intense exercise for the first 24 to 48 hours and switch to lighter forms of physical activity such as walking. Exercise increases your heart rate and blood flow to the treatment area, which makes you more prone to bruising and delays healing.
For more advice about injectable dermal fillers and other options for cosmetic dermatology, contact St. Petersburg’s Nelson Dermatology. Fill in a contact form through their website or call them at 727-895-8131 to request a consultation.