Lip Filler Recovery Timeline
Day-by-day guide to what to expect during your lip filler recovery—swelling, aftercare, and when to contact your provider.
The Quick Take
Most people see the biggest swelling in the first 1-2 days.
Things usually look normal by day 5-7.
Final look settles in about 2-4 weeks.
Day-by-Day Recovery Timeline
Treatment Day
What to Expect:
Lips may feel numb, puffy, or tender. This is completely normal.
What to Do:
- Ice with a clean cloth: 10 minutes on, then off
- Sleep with your head up on extra pillows
- Skip lipstick, hot drinks, alcohol, and hard exercise today
Days 1-2: Peak Swelling
What to Expect:
- This is peak swelling—the most your lips will be swollen
- Small bruises can show up
- Bumps can feel firm from swelling (this is common and normal)
What to Do:
- Keep using ice as needed
- Drink plenty of water
Days 3-4: Getting Better
What to Expect:
- Swelling and bruises start to fade
- Lips feel less tight
What You Can Do:
- Light activity is fine
- Still avoid heavy workouts and saunas
Days 5-7: Almost Normal
What to Expect:
- Most swelling is gone
- Lips look more even and feel softer
- Starting to see how your final results will look
What You Can Do:
You can usually go back to normal workouts and activities
Weeks 2-4: Final Results
What to Expect:
- Shape looks natural and settled
- This is your final result
Touch-Up Time:
If you want a touch-up, ask your provider after week 2 when everything has settled
Easy Aftercare Checklist
Do These Things
- Ice with a clean cloth as needed
- Keep lips and hands clean
- Drink water to stay hydrated
- Use gentle lip balm if your provider says it's okay
Don't Do These
- Don't rub or press your lips
- Don't use lip plumpers or go to saunas/steam rooms the first week
- Don't book dental work for a couple of weeks unless your provider says it's okay
When to Contact Your Provider Right Away
Contact Immediately If You Have:
- Strong pain that gets worse
- Skin turns white, blue, or very pale
- One side gets much bigger than the other
- Spreading redness, fever, or pus
If you can't reach your provider, go to urgent care or the emergency room.
Common Questions
How long does swelling last?
Biggest swelling is in the first 1-2 days. Most people look normal by day 5-7.
When can I wear lipstick?
Often after day 1 if the area is clean and your provider says it's okay.
When do I see the final look?
Usually by 2-4 weeks when everything has settled.
Can I work out?
Light walking is fine. Wait 2-3 days for hard exercise to avoid extra swelling.
Is it normal to have lumps or bumps?
Yes, small bumps from swelling are common in the first few days. They usually go away as swelling decreases.
When can I drink alcohol?
Wait at least 24-48 hours. Alcohol can increase swelling and bruising.
Related Guides
Questions About Your Recovery?
Find providers in Colorado who can answer your questions and provide aftercare guidance.
Important Legal and Medical Disclaimer
Educational Content Only: This guide provides general educational information about cosmetic procedures and should not be considered medical advice. Individual results, risks, and suitability vary significantly based on anatomy, medical history, and other factors.
Professional Consultation Required: Always consult with board-certified healthcare providers to discuss whether these treatments are appropriate for your specific medical situation and aesthetic goals. This content does not establish a doctor-patient relationship.
Verify Provider Credentials: Independently verify all provider qualifications through official state medical board databases and professional associations before scheduling any procedures. The listing or mention of providers does not constitute endorsement.
No Guarantees: Treatment outcomes cannot be guaranteed. All cosmetic procedures carry risks including but not limited to infection, scarring, asymmetry, nerve damage, and unsatisfactory results. Carefully review informed consent documentation before proceeding with any treatment.