How Long Does Lip Filler Swelling Last?
- Juvenology Clinic
- May 19
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 10
Dermal fillers are so fabulous for smoothing, plumping, and refreshing the face but swelling afterwards? Yep, that part’s totally normal.
Sometimes it’s just a little puffiness, and sometimes it’s a bit more dramatic especially around the lips!
Let’s walk through it all together: what to expect, how to manage it, and when it might be time to check in.
What Causes Swelling After Fillers?
Swelling is usually a combination of three things:
The needle or cannula: Tiny trauma from the injection itself
The filler product: Some products attract water, causing puffiness
Your immune system: Your body’s lovely little way of saying, “What’s this?”
All of this is totally normal, and your body is just adjusting.
What’s a Normal Swelling Timeline?
Every face is unique but here’s a general guide to what’s expected:
Immediately after treatment
Swelling starts right away, especially in the lips and tear troughs.
You might also feel a little pressure or firmness.
1–2 days after
Swelling usually peaks at 24–48 hours.
3–5 days after
Swelling should start settling, and things will begin to smooth out.
7–14 days after
Most of the swelling is gone, though deeper areas like tear troughs can take a bit longer to fully settle.
Tip: Always wait 2 full weeks before judging results, that’s when the magic really shows.
Aftercare Tips for Swelling
Here are a few simple things you can do to feel more comfortable while your filler settles:
Immediately After Treatment
Apply a cool (not frozen!) compress for 10–15 minutes at a time.
Stay upright for at least 4 hours post-treatment.
Try to sleep on your back, slightly elevated.
Avoid These for 24–48 Hours
Intense workouts or sweating
Alcohol
Salty food
Saunas or steam rooms
Makeup (especially on the lips or under eyes)
Touching or massaging the treated areas
If you’re not sure whether something is safe, just ask me! I’d rather you double-check than worry.
When to Worry: Red Flags to Watch For
Most swelling is harmless but occasionally, things can go a bit off-track. Please contact your injector immediately if you notice:
Pain that increases over time, not decreases
Redness or heat that spreads
Skin that looks pale, dusky, or patchy (possible vascular occlusion)
Fever, chills, or feeling unwell
Swelling that gets worse after 3–4 days instead of better
Even if it’s just a niggle or you’re feeling unsure, please message me.
Swelling in Different Areas of the Face
Each area reacts a bit differently:
Lips
Swelling can be quite dramatic, especially if it’s your first time!
You may even feel slightly uneven or bumpy, this often settles within a week.
Cheeks & Chin
Usually milder swelling, may feel firm or “full” for a few days.
Tear Troughs (under-eyes)
Swelling tends to last a bit longer here up to 2 weeks.
Sleep, salt, and hydration levels can really affect this area.
Nasolabial Folds (smile lines)
May feel a little “puffy” or heavy early on but settle quickly.
💬 Worried about swelling? Message Me
Swelling can feel a bit unsettling, especially if it’s your first time! But I promise, in most cases, it’s completely normal, and your lovely results are just waiting to reveal themselves.
If something doesn’t feel right, or if you just need a bit of reassurance, please don’t hesitate to pop me a message or call the clinic. We’re here for you, even if it’s just a little wobble or question!
About Me
Hi, I’m Nurse Marina, and I’m so glad you’re here! I founded Juvenology Clinic in Kent to bring a truly personalized approach to botox, dermal fillers, skincare, and overall wellness.
Before transitioning into aesthetics, I spent 6 years as a Cardiac Nurse at KIMS Hospital in Maidstone, where I developed a deep understanding of anatomy. I then honed my skills as a Specialist Aesthetics Nurse at Spencer Private Hospital in Kent.
I’m a proud member of professional organizations like JCCP, BAMAN, NMC, ACE Group, and the Royal College of Nursing. I want to make sure that every treatment I deliver is backed by the latest knowledge and techniques in medical aesthetics.
Located at 82 King Street, Maidstone
Our clinic is perfectly positioned for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're popping in for a treatment or making a day of it, we're close to some of Maidstone’s best-known attractions:
Fremlin Walk
Maidstone East Station
Mote Park
Leeds Castle
Is There Parking Near the Clinic?
Yes! We're located near several parking options in Maidstone:
Fremlin Walk Car Park (3-minute walk)
The Mall Maidstone Car Park (5-minute walk)
King Street Pay & Display (directly outside)
Do You Treat Clients from Outside Maidstone?
Absolutely! We regularly welcome clients from across Kent, including:
Medway Towns (20-minute drive)
Rochester (25-minute drive)
Chatham (22-minute drive)
Ashford (30-minute drive)
ME14 – Maidstone, Bearsted, Grove Green
ME15 – Bearsted (Madginford), Downswood, Shepway, Senacre, Maidstone Town Centre, Loose, Mangravet, Park Wood, Tovil, East Farleigh, West Farleigh
ME16 – Barming, Allington and west Maidstone
ME17 – Hollingbourne, Hucking, Harrietsham, Lenham, Boughton Monchelsea, Linton, Coxheath, Chart Sutton, East Sutton, Langley, Kingswood, Sutton Valence
ME18 – Wateringbury, Mereworth, Teston, Nettlestead, West Peckham, Yalding, Laddingford.
Regulated by Verified Professional Bodies.
Medical Aesthetics in Maidstone ME14, ME15, ME16, ME17 and ME18.