When it comes to enhancing your natural beauty, facial fillers have become the go-to choice of many. Lip filler injections, in particular, have become a popular and effective treatment to achieve that perfect pout. However, like any dermal filler procedure, minor side effects may occur.
So are lumps and bumps normal side effects of lip fillers? The short answer is yes. These are common, temporary issues that occur after filler treatments. These usually resolve within a couple of weeks. The thing is, you need to learn how to care for your lips post-treatment, as well as know when to consult a doctor, to ensure the best possible results.
Is It Normal to Feel Bumps After Lip Filler Treatment?
Bumps and lumps are common side effects of lip filler injections. They are often short-term problems that naturally subside within 2 to 3 weeks, but if need be, they can be corrected by medical professionals. If the bumps feel painful or have a firm consistency, you might have an allergic reaction to the filler, which can be treated with steroids (e.g., Arnica, Bromelain).
How to Manage Lumps After Lip Filler Injection
First and foremost, wait until you are 5 to 7 days post-lip injection before massaging your lumps and bumps. This is to prevent filler migration, as well as unnecessary trauma to the treated area.
If the symptoms still persist, use gentle, circular motions to massage your filler lumps. Do this 2 to 3 times a day until they disappear. Make sure to place your thumb inside your mouth to serve as a boundary that prevents the filler ingredients from migrating.
Meanwhile, if the lip filler lump doesn’t go away after a few months, it can easily be dissolved by injecting a small amount of the hyaluronidase enzyme. Your doctor may even opt for aesthetic medicine. You can also request for more filler around the lump to even out the lips and achieve symmetry.
Lip Filler Aftercare Instructions: Things to Avoid
1) Trauma to the Lips
Keep in mind that your lips will be delicate and sensitive after lip injections – whether it’s hydroxylapatite, poly-L-lactic acid, polymethylmethacrylate or hyaluronic acid filler. It’s essential to avoid any possible trauma to the area, such as biting, rubbing, picking, and drinking through a straw. This could lead to the formation of bumps or an uneven appearance. Be gentle with your lips during the healing process.
2) Strenuous Exercise
Don’t hit the gym right after a lip augmentation procedure. While it’s always important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, you should avoid strenuous exercise 24 to 48 hours following your filler procedure. These types of activities can lead to increased blood flow, resulting in swelling and bruising around the injection site. Opt for gentle, low-impact exercises like walking or stretching until your lip area has fully healed.
3) Certain Foods and Drinks
Do not consume spicy foods or hot drinks as these may cause stinging or burning sensations, especially when your lips are still in the early stages of the healing process. Stick to lukewarm water and easy-to-eat food items.
4) Makeup
Although you may be eager to show your new, fuller lips, it’s best to steer clear of makeup for at least 24 hours after your treatment. Lipstick, lip balm, lip gloss, and other cosmetic products can introduce bacteria and irritates to your skin, increasing the risk of infection and disruption of filler placement.
5) High Temperatures
Avoid high-temperature environments (e.g., saunas, hot showers, steam rooms) as these could dilate your blood vessels and prolong the swelling caused by lip fillers. We recommend applying a cold compress around your lips to ease swelling, itching, and bruising.
6) Flying
Wait at least 7 days before going on a flight. This is because the low air pressure inside a plane cabin can exacerbate the lumps and bumps caused by the freshly injected lip fillers. Flying, especially on long-haul flights, can also result in dehydration, which would only expose your lips to additional stress.
7) Smoking
The chemicals found in cigarettes can break down the filler material more quickly, shortening the longevity of your results. As much as possible, try to quit smoking before your treatment or, at the very least, abstain from smoking for a few days after having the injection.
Possible Side Effects of Lip Fillers
While any dermal filler treatment is generally considered safe, it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects that may arise. By understanding these symptoms, you can take the necessary steps to minimize them and enjoy your new, fuller lips. Some of the most common side effects include:
- Swelling and redness
- Bruising
- Lip filler bumps
- Asymmetry
- Infection
- Allergic reaction
Seek immediate medical attention if you’re experiencing intense bruising or swelling, vascular occlusion, cold sores, pus, difficulty breathing, as well as persistent bumps and lumps.
Experience Quality Aftercare at Ethos Spa
Dermal fillers are a quick, safe medical procedure that gives your lips a plump, full look. Although lumps and bumps are common side effects of any dermal filler treatment, these should naturally subside within a few weeks.
At Ethos Spa, our commitment to your satisfaction goes beyond the lip filler treatment itself. You can rest assured that you’re in the care of trusted medical professionals who prioritize your recovery. We’ll provide you with custom procedures that minimize potential side effects and maximize the longevity of your results. Contact us today and discover the difference that personalized, attentive aftercare can make in your lip filler journey.
