A lip dermal filler treatment only takes a few short moments to complete but offers long-lasting results. A filler application is not a major procedure, but it is a medically certified treatment, and as a result, there is somewhat of a recovery period afterward. While every person will have a different experience, there are some common symptoms people experience. Learn what they are so you can know what's normal and what's not.
Swelling
This procedure does cause swelling. So, if your lips are larger than you had expected immediately after the procedure, things will change. A filler is a foreign object to the body. The human body sometimes responds to foreign objects through swelling. For some people, the swelling is only minor, and for others, it can make lips appear several times larger.
You might even notice that one of your lips appears larger than the other. Don't worry, you won't be stuck with lopsided lips. Swelling should begin to go down in the days following the application.
Numbness
It's also common to experience a certain level of numbing after a dermal filler procedure. Your provider will likely apply a numbing cream to your lips to minimize your discomfort during the procedure. Again, every person is different, so for some people, the effects of the cream wear off right after the procedure, and for others, it takes a few hours.
Additionally, if you have significant swelling, you might experience extra numbness. However, prolonged numbness is not normal. If a long period has passed and you don't experience at least a gradual decrease in the numbness, contact your treatment provider.
Tenderness
To ensure the size of your lips is consistent and that they look natural, the filler is inserted with a medical-grade syringe through several injections. Given the makeup of the lips, this constant poking can lead to some tenderness, but it should not lead to intense pain. Intense pain can be an indication that your body is rejecting the filler, so if you experience it, you should have your lips checked out.
Keep in mind; swelling can also cause some tenderness. When the skin on the lips swells, it also stretches. The stretching can make your lips uncomfortable. Reducing the movement of your lips by talking and moving them less might be able to offer some relief.
During your recovery, if you experience any issue that concerns you, contact your health care provider. It's always better to be safe than sorry, so don't hesitate to seek care.