From the Research
After lip injections, it is crucial to follow proper care instructions for the first five days to minimize complications and ensure optimal results, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Care Instructions:
- Apply ice packs to your lips for 10-15 minutes every hour for the first 24 hours to reduce swelling and bruising.
- Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) as needed for pain, but avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other blood-thinning medications which can increase bruising, as noted in various studies 2, 3.
- Keep your lips clean and moisturized with petroleum jelly or a recommended lip balm.
- Avoid touching or massaging your lips unless specifically instructed by your provider.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, but avoid extremely hot beverages for 24-48 hours.
- Don't use lipstick or other cosmetics on your lips for at least 24 hours.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol, and smoking for 24-48 hours as these can worsen swelling and bruising.
- Skip saunas, hot tubs, and sunbathing for the first week.
Monitoring for Complications:
If you experience severe pain, significant asymmetry, or signs of infection like increasing redness or warmth, contact your provider immediately, as these could be indicative of adverse effects associated with hyaluronic acid fillers 1, 4.
Importance of High-Quality Evidence:
The care instructions provided are based on the most recent and highest quality study available, which emphasizes the effectiveness and safety of hyaluronic acid fillers for lip augmentation 1. While other studies 2, 3, 5 provide valuable insights into the use of dermal fillers for perioral rejuvenation, the primary focus remains on minimizing morbidity, mortality, and optimizing quality of life outcomes.