How To Speed Up Healing After Dermal Fillers 

Swelling after dermal fillers is totally normal, but it can be inconvenient. Whether you’ve got a big event coming up or are just tired of the puffy post-filler phase, you don’t need to wait it out helplessly. Fortunately, there are tried and tested ways to speed up the recovery process, backed by science. Here’s the lowdown on what you can do to reduce facial puffiness sooner. 

The Recovery Timeline

Everyone’s healing process is different, but here’s a general breakdown of what to expect and when:

• 24 to 48 hours: Peak swelling time. Your face may look puffy and uneven.
• 3 to 5 days: The swelling should start to go down.
• 7 to 10 days: Most of the swelling should be gone. Now you can start to see the results!
• 2+ weeks: Normally, you should be fully healed after a fortnight.

For most people, the healing process after dermal fillers is just about giving your body plenty of time and rest. However, if you’re still swollen two weeks after the procedure, check in with your provider to make sure everything is on track. 

Science-Backed Ways to Support Faster Recovery

There’s no magic trick to heal instantly or avoid swelling entirely, but there are things you can do to give your body the best chance of a faster recovery. 

Cold Compresses

Cold helps reduce blood flow and inflammation. Place a clean ice pack or a cold gel pad on the area where you had fillers for around 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Then, give your skin a break for 10 to 15 minutes. Leaving a cold pack on your face for too long can increase your risk of frostbite and tissue loss. Be very gentle, as pressing too hard can also cause injury. 

Sleep Position

When you go to bed, make sure your head is elevated with plenty of comfy cushions. Keeping your head propped up uses gravity to drain excess fluid and reduces morning puffiness.

Avoid Alcohol and Salty Foods 

Both booze and salty food can make you retain water, which increases swelling. Avoid processed snacks and things like cheese, bacon, chips, deli meats, canned foods, and condiments. Instead, focus on plant-based, nutrient-rich whole foods that nourish your body, like grains, legumes, and vegetables. 

Gentle Movement

After you’ve had fillers, it’s best to skip the gym for a day or two. Strenuous exercise can make swelling worse and even lead to bruising due to increased blood pressure and flow. Light movement is okay, so feel free to go for a walk or do some gentle stretches. However, avoid bending over or putting yourself in positions where your head is lower than your heart, like in downward dog. Hot yoga, tanning beds, saunas, and other high-heat activities should also be avoided for at least a week.

Arnica and bromelain

Arnica is a herb, while bromelain is an enzyme mixture. Both natural remedies help with inflammation, bruising, and swelling. While Arnica is usually in a gel or cream that you apply topically, bromelain can be taken as a supplement. It’s also found in high quantities in pineapple, so if you’re a fan of the fruit, get snacking.

Endnote

Swelling after dermal fillers can be frustrating, but the important thing to remember is that swelling is normal and temporary. Rest, relax, and take steps to support your body’s natural healing process. You’ll be looking your best in no time at all.