Dermal fillers, typically composed of hyaluronic acid, are injectable gels used to temporarily enhance the volume, shape, and structure of the lips. Because the procedure involves small injections into the delicate lip tissue, a brief healing period is necessary for the best aesthetic outcome. Following specific aftercare instructions is a necessary part of this process, particularly concerning activities involving the mouth. Proper care helps minimize common side effects and supports the filler as it integrates with the natural lip structure.
Why Heat Is Restricted Immediately After Lip Fillers
Restricting hot beverages and foods immediately after a lip filler procedure manages the body’s inflammatory response. Heat acts as a powerful vasodilator, causing blood vessels to widen and expand. This increased blood flow to the treated area can significantly worsen common side effects like swelling, redness, and bruising.
Heightened blood circulation prevents the initial trauma from settling quickly, potentially prolonging the recovery time. Increased heat and blood flow also carry a theoretical risk of causing the hyaluronic acid gel to metabolize faster, which could compromise the longevity of the results. Practitioners advise avoiding all forms of high heat exposure during the initial 24 to 48 hours following treatment. This includes hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, and direct exposure to intense sunlight.
The goal in the initial recovery phase is to keep the lips cool and calm, which encourages the blood vessels to constrict rather than dilate. Keeping the area relatively cool helps stabilize the filler material in its intended location, allowing it to integrate smoothly into the surrounding tissue. Consuming only room-temperature or cold items supports this crucial process immediately after the procedure.
The Timeline for Reintroducing Hot Beverages and Other Drinks
You can safely drink hot tea or coffee generally 24 to 48 hours after your lip filler injections. This waiting period allows the injection sites to seal and initial swelling to begin subsiding. When reintroducing hot drinks, test the temperature first, ensuring the beverage is comfortably lukewarm rather than steaming hot.
Alcohol consumption should be avoided for at least 24 hours, and ideally 48 hours, because it thins the blood. This thinning can intensify bruising and increase swelling. The effect on the blood vessels can also lead to more persistent bleeding at the injection sites.
Avoid drinking through a straw for at least 24 to 48 hours, with some practitioners recommending up to three days. The puckering motion required to draw liquid through a straw creates vacuum pressure within the mouth. This suction stresses the treated tissue, potentially causing the filler material to shift or migrate. Hydration is encouraged, but all liquids should be sipped directly from a glass or bottle to maintain a neutral lip position.
Comprehensive Oral Care and Recovery Guidelines
Several other activities must be temporarily adjusted to support optimal healing and filler integration. Strenuous exercise, which elevates the heart rate and blood pressure, should be avoided for 24 to 48 hours. Increased blood flow from physical activity can worsen swelling and bruising, similar to the effect of heat. Light walking is acceptable, but intense workouts should be postponed until the initial recovery period is over.
Smoking and vaping should be avoided for a minimum of 48 hours post-treatment. Drawing on a cigarette or vape requires a strong pursing or puckering motion, which can displace the freshly injected filler material. Furthermore, the chemicals in smoke and vapor can increase the risk of infection at the microscopic injection sites and impede healing.
Dietary choices require attention in the first few days, particularly avoiding foods that demand heavy chewing or wide mouth movements. Extremely salty or spicy foods should be bypassed as they can irritate the sensitive lip area and contribute to additional swelling. When sleeping, keep the head slightly elevated with an extra pillow to reduce overnight swelling. Avoid applying makeup, lipstick, or heavy lip products for at least 24 hours to prevent the introduction of bacteria into the healing puncture sites.