Proper care in the first 24 to 48 hours after receiving dermal fillers can significantly impact the success of the treatment. Below is everything you need to know to maximise your results and minimise potential side effects.

Care in the First 24–48 Hours

  • Apply gentle massage to the area injected to help smooth and integrate the filler. Oils such as coconut or almond oil can help.
  • Use a cold compress or ice pack to help minimise swelling or bruising. Don't apply ice directly to the skin — use a cloth as a barrier to prevent ice burn.
  • Avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, workouts, saunas, hot tubs, or any other sources of heat, as these may increase swelling.
  • Drink plenty of water — hydration supports your overall health and aids recovery.
  • Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and blood-thinning medications (like aspirin or ibuprofen) if possible, as these can increase bruising and swelling.
  • Sleep with your head elevated above your heart for the first night to help minimise swelling.
  • If you need to go outside, use a high-SPF sunblock.

Early Side Effects

It's normal to experience some side effects after a dermal filler treatment, most of which should subside within a few days to a week:

  • Redness at the injection site immediately following treatment
  • Swelling or bruising — typically subsides within a few days to a week
  • Pain or tenderness at the injection site
  • Itching at the injection site
  • Minor bleeding from the injection site right after the procedure
  • Lumps or bumps under the skin — often temporary, will usually settle on their own

Serious Side Effects — Seek Immediate Help

Although rare, there are some serious complications that can happen if filler enters or blocks an artery. Please contact Dr Lindsay immediately if you experience:

  • Vision changes or blindness — extremely rare but can occur if filler is inadvertently injected into the blood vessels that supply the eyes
  • Skin necrosis — symptoms include severe pain, a dusky, pale or mottled skin appearance, and a cool feel to the skin with delayed blood supply

When Will You See Results?

Dermal fillers provide almost immediate results. However, keep in mind that initially the fullness you see might be slightly exaggerated due to swelling. It usually takes about 1–2 weeks for the swelling to fully subside and for the final result to settle in.

Follow-Up and Maintenance

Dermal fillers are not permanent. Depending on the type of filler used and the area treated, you might start to see the effects diminish anywhere from 6 months to 2 years after treatment. Different types of fillers have different lifespans:

  • Hyaluronic acid fillers (Restylane, Juvederm) — typically 6 to 18 months
  • Poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) or calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) — up to two years or more