If you've just had cheek filler injections, swelling is perfectly normal - but how long will it last? Here's a detailed look at what to expect with swelling after cheek fillers, from the initial inflammation to final resolution.
The short answer: Swelling usually peaks 24-72 hours after injectable treatment and diminishes within 1-2 weeks. Complete swelling reduction typically takes 3-6 months on average, though this timeframe can vary depending on individual factors.
Keep reading to learn what impacts swelling timelines, proper aftercare, and when to contact your provider about prolonged swelling.
Injectable fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, and Sculptra work by adding volume to restore lost fullness. But your body doesn't immediately welcome the foreign material with open arms.
Your immune system triggers an inflammatory reaction to fight the perceived "invaders" - the hyaluronic acid molecules in the filler. This natural response is what causes swelling.
Inflammation brings extra fluid and white blood cells to the injected area. While ultimately harmless with dermal fillers, it does lead to temporary swelling as the body works to isolate and break down the foreign material.
The hyaluronic acid (HA) in leading dermal fillers also attracts water molecules. So as the HA integrates into your skin's deeper layers, it pulls in water and adds volume - swelling.
This temporary fluid retention is essential for the dermal filler to settle properly into facial contours. But it does mean you'll look slightly swollen for a period of time.
While almost everyone experiences some swelling post-injection, several factors impact the severity and duration:
The molecular structure of the hyaluronic acid chains influences swelling. More lightweight HA structures like Restylane Silk tend to produce less swelling than denser options like Voluma.
The more filler injected, the more your body has to work to absorb. So swelling magnitude and longevity increase with larger injection volumes.
A skilled injector will use meticulous injection methods to minimize trauma and irritation. Poor technique often means more swelling.
Thinner skin in areas like the under eyes is more susceptible to swelling than thicker cheek skin. Anatomy impacts swelling too.
Anti-inflammatories and steroids help reduce swelling. contraceptives and NSAIDs can prolong it.
Some patients simply have more pronounced inflammatory responses and heal slower than others based on individual genetics.
Here's a general timeline of normal swelling you can expect after cheek filler treatment:
Severe, extensive bruising and swelling is NOT normal. Contact your provider if you experience:
These could indicate an infection or other complication requiring medical attention. Better safe than sorry!
While the swelling will subside on its own, you can take steps to minimize discomfort and speed up resolution:
Mild swelling you can still see and feel is completely normal even at the two week mark. The final 20% of swelling takes 1-3 months to fully resolve.
Contact your provider if:
While unlikely, prolonged, severe swelling can indicate a rare allergic reaction or infection. It's important to get evaluated to avoid complications.
To quickly recap:
With appropriate expectations and aftercare, swelling shouldn't deter you from subtly enhancing your cheeks. While uncomfortable, keep in mind that it's only temporary on the path to your improved appearance!
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