What to Expect After Dermal Fillers

Hyaluronic acid fillers add or restore volume in areas such as lips, cheeks, chin, jawline, and under-eye hollows. The product settles over days, not minutes — so knowing what is normal helps you recover calmly. First 24 hours Expect mild swelling, tenderness, and sometimes pinpoint marks at injection sites. Lips often look fuller than the final result on day one. Sleep with your head slightly elevated. Avoid intense exercise, alcohol, saunas, and facial massages unless your clinician says otherwise. Do not press or “massage into place” unless you were specifically instructed. Days 2–7 Swelling usually peaks early then declines. Bruising — if it appears — can last up to a week, especially around the mouth. Cool compresses (not ice directly on skin) may help comfort. Makeup is often fine after 24 hours if the skin is intact. Stay well hydrated; salt-heavy meals can hold fluid. Weeks 1–2 As water binding settles, shape looks more natural. Cheek and jawline work may feel firm at first, then soften. Under-eye treatments need extra patience: the area is delicate and can stay slightly puffy longer. When to contact the clinic Increasing pain, blanching (very pale skin), mottled purple/grey colour, vision changes, or rapidly worsening swelling are not typical “normal recovery.” Call promptly — early assessment matters. Aftercare habits that help Follow sun protection, avoid dental work or aggressive facials for the window your clinician gives you, and keep your follow-up appointment. Final review is often planned after integration, not on the injection day. Fillers are reversible with hyaluronidase when medically appropriate — another reason to choose a clinic that can manage both placement and aftercare. If something feels wrong, do not wait for social-media advice; message the team that treated you.