When does swelling go away after hyaluronic acid filler?

You've just completed your hyaluronic acid treatment. Now you're wondering when this temporary swelling you're seeing will disappear?
Being eager to see the final result is natural, but understanding the natural healing process is important. This knowledge helps you better manage those first few days.

Why does swelling appear after hyaluronic acid?

Your body immediately starts a natural healing reaction when hyaluronic acid is injected into your tissues.

Blood circulation in the area increases through this process. Fluids temporarily accumulate, which creates that characteristic swelling.

The injection process itself creates micro-injuries with needles that contribute to the swelling. Hyaluronic acid attracts and retains water. This fact enhances volume in the tissues during the first days.

How swelling progresses

Immediately after injection (0-6 hours)

Right after the injection, swelling usually starts and can become quite intense in the first hours. Minor inflammation that the injection creates causes this. The mechanical movement of tissues during the procedure also contributes.

First 24-48 hours

Within 1-2 days after injection, the swelling and redness should subside. For lip filler applications, the reaction can last 3 or more days. Swelling typically peaks during this time period. Feeling like the area looks more swollen than it actually is remains normal.

3-7 days

As the days pass, especially around days 5-7, both bruising and swelling will start to decrease. This represents a temporary state. The swelling subsides and the application area begins to take its natural shape. This allows the filler to become more visible.

10-14 days

Complete and proper healing usually requires this time period. The area can fully adjust and the final result appears. Swelling completely disappears approximately after 10-14 days. After this period, you can truly evaluate the results.

Factors affecting swelling duration

Individual factors:

Age: Faster recovery usually occurs at younger ages
Metabolism: Higher metabolism means the swelling goes down faster
General health condition: A healthy circulatory and lymphatic system helps. The swelling gets absorbed better and more quickly
Genetic predisposition: Every body reacts differently to inflammation. Having a tendency toward sensitivity or fluid retention can affect swelling duration too.

Anatomical factors:

Application area: Lips and the area around the eyes contain more vessels. They show a greater tendency for swelling
Skin thickness: Swelling appears more intense in thinner skin

Technical factors:

Volume of material: Larger amounts cause more intense swelling
Injection technique: Proper technique minimizes trauma
Type of hyaluronic acid: Different types show different reactions

How Long Does Swelling Last after Hyaluronic

Practical tips for better recovery

Cold application: Using ice (not directly on the skin) provides a simple way to soothe the area. It helps reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply ice wrapped in a thin cloth for 10-15 minutes at a time.
Keep your head upside: When lying down, keeping your head higher significantly helps the swelling go down faster. Extra pillows can help you stay in a slightly upright position.
Avoid heat: Extreme temperatures (like saunas) should be avoided. Heat can make swelling worse and prolong the recovery period.
Limit activities: For a short period after treatment, avoid intense exercise. This minimizes additional swelling.

Supportive measures:

Adequate hydration
Balanced nutrition
Avoiding anti-inflammatory medications (unless medically directed)

When it's good to contact your doctor

Prolonged swelling: If the swelling doesn't subside within two weeks, talking to your doctor is recommended. The same applies if you have any concerns about the results.
Signs of complications: Notice intense redness that's getting worse? Contact your doctor immediately. The same goes for excessive pain, heat in the area, or signs of infection.
Hypersensitivity reaction: An inflammatory reaction can sometimes appear a few days or even weeks after hyaluronic acid treatment. This happens more often in people who've had injectable fillers. It still remains a rare complication.

Ask the doctor

Dr. Dimitroulas Nikolas, Doctor

21 0692 9999

Frequently asked questions

Can I use makeup immediately after application?

Avoiding makeup for the first 24 hours is recommended, especially in areas with intense swelling. After this period, light makeup can be applied with gentle movements. Avoid rubbing or pressing the area.

Is there a way to prevent swelling before application?

Salt consumption can be reduced 2-3 days before. Alcohol should be avoided 24 hours before. Anti-inflammatory medications can be stopped (with doctor's agreement). However, mild swelling often appears as a natural reaction.

Why do lips swell more than other areas?

Lips contain many blood vessels and very thin skin. This makes them more sensitive to swelling. Because they're constantly moving, their recovery can take a bit longer compared to other areas.

Conclusion

Swelling from hyaluronic acid represents a temporary and normal reaction. It usually subsides gradually within 10-14 days.
Understanding this process and following appropriate post-treatment care instructions allows confident management of the recovery period.
If you have other questions or need help, contact Facemed Clinic.