Filler results evolve over time, not instantly. In the first few days, swelling, tenderness, and mild bruising are common as your body adjusts. Lips and under-eye areas tend to swell more than cheeks, and results may look uneven early on before settling.
Healing can vary based on placement, lifestyle, and individual response. Alcohol, exercise, heat exposure, and frequent touching can prolong swelling, which is why timing treatments around work or social plans in La Jolla matters.
The First 24 Hours
The first day focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing unnecessary irritation.
Do this
- Use cool compresses. This can reduce swelling and soothe tenderness.
- Sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated if possible.
- Keep your face clean and avoid rubbing the treated area.
- Stay hydrated and eat normally—choose softer foods if your lips feel tender.
- If you have discomfort, use only what your provider recommends.
Avoid this
- Heavy exercise
- Alcohol
- Excess heat (hot yoga, sauna, steam rooms, very hot showers)
- Facials, massages, and tight pressure on the area
- Makeup directly over injection points until your provider says it’s okay—especially if there are visible entry sites
Days 2–14: Healing and Settling
Swelling and bruising often peak between days two and four, then gradually fade. Mild asymmetry, firmness, or a tight sensation can be normal during this phase, especially in high-movement areas like the lips.
Sun exposure, intense workouts, and aggressive skincare should still be limited. If swelling persists beyond one week, it’s usually part of a slower-healing pattern rather than a complication, but a professional follow-up can provide reassurance.
Daily Habits That Protect Results
Small habits play a significant role in how long filler results last. Avoid heat-heavy environments, intense facial pressure, and unnecessary massage unless specifically advised by your provider.
Common mistakes include overchecking the area, attempting self-massage, or scheduling touch-ups before the swelling has fully resolved. Letting the filler settle naturally helps prevent overcorrection and uneven results.
When to Call Your Provider Right Away
Most aftercare questions are about what’s normal. But there are a few signs that should be treated as urgent.
Contact your provider promptly if you experience:
- Severe or worsening pain that doesn’t improve
- Skin that looks unusually pale, blotchy, or dusky near the treated area
- Coolness to the skin or significant color changes
- Blistering or sores near the injection site
- Vision changes
- Rapidly increasing swelling, especially with hives or breathing symptoms
These symptoms are uncommon, but knowing them reduces fear because you’ll have clear boundaries: mild swelling and tenderness are typical; severe pain or dramatic color changes are not.
Planning Around Your La Jolla Lifestyle
If you live or work near La Jolla, filler aftercare often intersects with real life: beach plans, client meetings, dinners, and photos. The most straightforward strategy is to plan filler when you can have a low-key 48 hours afterward. If you’re booking before an important event, consider scheduling at least 1–2 weeks ahead so bruising and swelling have time to settle fully.
If you’re unsure whether what you’re seeing is normal, you don’t have to guess. The right aftercare plan is personalized to your treatment area, your anatomy, and your schedule. If you’re in La Jolla and want natural-looking results with clear guidance on swelling, bruising, and timelines, Alcheme Health can walk you through what to do next, what to avoid, and when to come in for a quick check so you feel confident at every stage of healing.
If you’re ready to experience personalized, science-backed beauty and wellness, visit Alcheme MedSpa La Jolla location for your first treatment. Be sure to bring your coupon to show the receptionist and receive your introductory savings, whether you choose 20 percent off your first visit, $ 75 off your first service, or 20 percent off NAD therapy. It’s the perfect time to start feeling and looking your best.
909 Prospect St STE #100C La Jolla, CA 92037
(619) 335-2552