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Filler Aftercare

After a filler treatment, you may have questions about recovery, aftercare, or concerns about the results or potential side effects. The article below provides tips, advice, and information on recovery and aftercare following a filler treatment.

Filler Aftercare

Read these 7 key care tips after a filler treatment:

Lip filler aftercare tips:

1. Cool the area for the first 24–48 hours using an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth (to prevent frostbite!).

2. Avoid smoking for the first 4–6 hours after treatment.

3. Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours after the treatment.

4. Avoid saunas, steam rooms, sunbeds, massages, and facial treatments for up to 2 weeks after the treatment.

5. Do not apply makeup for 24 hours (medical camouflage only with your practitioner’s approval).

6. Sleep on your back the first night and use an extra pillow under your head.

7. Avoid alcohol for 48 hours after treatment, but drink plenty of water.

8. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables and avoid excessive salty foods.

Recovery After a Filler Treatment

Mild side effects, such as slight swelling and redness, are often visible immediately after treatment and usually disappear within 24 hours. Occasionally, bruising may develop, which can last 2–7 days.

If you experience more severe or unusual side effects, or if you are concerned, it is always advisable to contact your practitioner. You should also reach out to your practitioner if you notice any of the following:

• Severe swelling or bruising lasting more than a week

• Intense pain or changes in skin colour (pale spots)

• Cold sores

• Noticeable lumps or bumps after 2 weeks

Complications After Fillers

As with any medical treatment, complications can occur. After a filler treatment, the following complications are rare, occurring in less than 1% of cases:

• Vascular complications (1 in 10,000 according to researchers at Erasmus MC)

• Bacterial infection

• Inflammatory reactions (largely preventable with a “filler test”)

• Asymmetry (can be corrected with a follow-up treatment)

• Overfilling (can be corrected with hyaluronidase)

Note: A successful treatment always starts with choosing a suitable, qualified practitioner.

Aftercare for Different Filler Treatments

Not every filler treatment requires the same aftercare. Here are some examples:

Lip Filler Aftercare

Read information about recovery and aftercare following lip filler treatments. Learn tips on how to prevent lip filler complications.

Tear Trough Filler Aftercare

Since tear troughs can easily retain fluid in many people, it’s important to be cautious with fillers that attract water and with massaging the area after treatment. After the procedure, the treated area may feel sensitive. Mild side effects such as slight swelling and redness are usually visible immediately and often disappear within 24 hours. Bruising may occur and typically lasts 2–7 days. It’s advisable to cool the area and follow the general aftercare advice for fillers carefully.

Jawline Filler Aftercare

Do not massage the treated area (chin or jawline fillers) unless your practitioner advises otherwise. Cool the area for the first 24–48 hours using an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth (to avoid frostbite). Avoid saunas, steam rooms, sunbeds, massages, and facial treatments for up to 2 weeks after the treatment. For more guidance, see the general filler aftercare tips.

Frequently asked questions about aftercare fillers