Bruising after fillers

Bruising after fillers: What should you expect?

Bruising is a common and usually temporary side effect after dermal filler treatment. It can occur when a small blood vessel is affected during the injection, causing blood to collect beneath the skin.

Bruising may appear blue, purple, green or yellow as it heals. Most bruises fade within a few days to two weeks, although recovery varies depending on the treatment area, injection technique and your individual healing response.

On this page you'll learn:

• why bruising occurs

• how long it usually lasts

• what may help recovery

• when bruising is considered normal

• when to contact your clinic

• how to compare experienced UK filler clinics

Why does bruising happen after fillers?

Bruising develops when a small blood vessel is damaged during treatment, allowing a small amount of blood to leak into the surrounding tissue.

Several factors can influence the likelihood of bruising, including:

• the treatment area

• injection technique

• use of a needle or cannula

• individual tendency to bruise

• blood-thinning medication

• alcohol before treatment

Areas with many small blood vessels, such as the lips or tear troughs, are generally more prone to bruising.

Read more about what are fillers?

Is bruising after fillers normal?

Yes. Mild bruising is one of the most common temporary reactions following filler treatment.

Typical signs include:

• blue, purple, green or yellow discolouration

• mild tenderness

• gradual improvement each day

Some swelling or redness may also occur and usually settles without treatment.

See also: Filler side effects.

How long does bruising last?

Most bruises improve within 3 to 14 days.

Recovery may take slightly longer after:

• lip fillers

• tear trough fillers

• if you bruise easily

• certain medications

If bruising persists for several weeks or symptoms worsen, contact your treating practitioner or clinic.

Healing varies from person to person. Age, skin type, treatment area and your body's natural healing process can all influence recovery.

What may help bruising after fillers?

You can support recovery by:

• following your practitioner's aftercare advice

• avoiding strenuous exercise immediately after treatment

• avoiding saunas, hot baths and excessive heat for the recommended period

• avoiding unnecessary pressure on the treated area

• allowing the area time to heal

Most bruising settles naturally as the body reabsorbs the trapped blood.

Bruising by treatment area

Different areas have different risks of bruising.

Lip fillers
The lips contain many small blood vessels, so bruising is relatively common.

Tear trough fillers
The skin around the eyes is thin, making bruising more noticeable.

Cheek fillers
Bruising can occur but is often less obvious.

Jawline and chin fillers
Bruising is generally less common and easier to conceal.

See also:

• Tear trough fillers

• Cheek fillers

• Marionette line fillers

When should you contact your clinic?

Contact your treating clinic if:

• symptoms become worse instead of improving

• pain increases significantly

• the skin becomes unusually pale, dark or mottled

• bruising does not improve over time

• you are concerned about your recovery

If you are unsure whether your symptoms are normal, seek advice from your practitioner promptly.

For more information, read about filler complications and filler necrosis.

Frequently asked questions about bruising after fillers