Injectables

Bruising and Swelling After Lip Filler: What to Expect

Just Got Lip Fillers? Here’s What You Need to Know

So, you just got Juvéderm lip fillers (or you’re thinking about getting them), and now you’re wondering—how much bruising and swelling is normal? Don’t worry, it’s totally expected! Since your lips are delicate and full of tiny blood vessels, some swelling and bruising are part of the healing process.

But how long does it last? What’s normal, and when should you be concerned? Let’s break it all down so you know exactly what to expect and how to care for your lips after your appointment.

How Long Will My Lips Be Swollen and Bruised?

Swelling and bruising vary from person to person, but here’s a general timeline of what you can expect:

  • First 24-48 hours: This is when your lips will be the most swollen. They might even look bigger than you expected—but don’t stress! This is completely normal.
  • Days 3-4: The swelling starts to go down, and any bruising begins to fade.
  • Days 5-7: Most of the swelling and bruising should be gone, and your lips will start to look more natural.
  • Up to two weeks after: For some people, minor swelling can stick around for a little longer, but by now, your lips should be close to their final shape.

If you’re dealing with more swelling than expected, staying hydrated and following aftercare tips can help speed things up!

What Does Normal Bruising Look Like?

Since the filler is injected using tiny needles, a little bruising is completely normal. Here’s what typical bruising after lip fillers looks like:

  • Small purple, blue, or red marks around the injection sites
  • Mild tenderness in the lips
  • Bruising that fades gradually over a few days, just like a normal bruise

Most bruises will be gone in about a week, but some may linger for longer. 

When Should You Worry About Swelling?

Swelling is totally normal, but there are a few signs that might mean something’s off. Call or drop by one of our clinics and/or your provider if you notice:

  • Pain that keeps getting worse instead of improving
  • Lumps or uneven areas that don’t go away after two weeks
  • White or pale patches on your lips, which could be a sign of poor blood flow
  • Swelling that gets worse after the first few days instead of going down

These could be signs of an allergic reaction, infection, or a rare complication called vascular occlusion. If something feels off, don’t wait—check in with one of our clinicians or your provider. 

How to Reduce Swelling and Bruising Faster

Want to heal as quickly as possible? Here’s what can help:

  • Apply a cold compress (but don’t press too hard!) for the first 24 hours
  • Drink lots of water to help your body heal
  • Sleep with your head slightly elevated to keep swelling down
  • Avoid alcohol until bruising is resolved 

Most importantly—be patient! Your lips need time to settle, and within a week or so, you’ll be able to enjoy your final results.

The Bottom Line

Bruising and swelling after lip fillers are totally normal and usually clear up within a week or two. If you follow the right aftercare steps and give your lips time to heal, you’ll be left with plumper, natural-looking results.

And if anything feels off, don’t hesitate to check in with one of our clinicians and/or your provider—they’re there to make sure you love your new lips!

Want to learn more about lip fillers? Reach out to one of our treatment specialists. 

References

“Hyaluronic Acid Is an Effective Dermal Filler for Lip Augmentation: A Meta-Analysis,” Frontiers in Surgery, August 6, 2021.