If you’ve just had lip filler injections, you’re probably wondering when you’ll be able to eat and drink normally again. Here’s a quick overview of what to expect and how soon you can resume your regular diet after lip injections.
Can I eat right after lip filler?
No, you should avoid eating and drinking for at least 2 hours after your lip filler appointment. This allows time for the filler to properly settle into your lips before you put any pressure on the area from eating or drinking. Immediately eating or drinking after lip injections increases the risk of bumps, swelling, and uneven results.
When can I eat soft foods after lip fillers?
Most plastic surgeons and dermatologists recommend sticking to a soft food diet for the first 24 hours after getting lip injections. Soft foods are unlikely to disrupt the filler and put minimal pressure on your tender lips as you chew. Some good soft food options include:
- Yogurt
- Applesauce
- Jell-O
- Pudding
- Mashed potatoes
- Scrambled eggs
- Oatmeal
- Soup
Avoid very hot or spicy foods during the first day, as these can further irritate your lips. Also steer clear of foods that require a lot of mouth movement like chips, popcorn, or nuts which could displace the filler.
When can I drink after lip injections?
It’s important to stay hydrated after any cosmetic treatment, but you’ll need to be a bit careful about how you drink. For the first 24 hours, stick to lukewarm and room temperature beverages only. Very hot or very cold drinks can cause additional swelling and discomfort.
Drink slowly and use a straw to minimize movement of your lips. Avoid carbonated drinks which can cause bubbles and irritation. Good options include water, juice, tea, milk, and protein shakes.
When can I resume a normal diet after lip fillers?
Most patients can return to their regular diet 24-48 hours after their lip filler appointment. The filler should be sufficiently settled within the first day to handle the pressure of normal eating and drinking.
However, everyone heals differently so you may want to slowly introduce more textured foods over a few days. If you experience discomfort, stick with soft foods a bit longer. Your practitioner can guide you on when a normal diet is safe based on the specifics of your procedure.
Foods to avoid after lip injections
Even once you’ve resumed a normal diet, there are certain foods that should be avoided for about a week after lip fillers to allow proper healing:
- Spicy foods like peppers or chili
- Crunchy foods like chips, pretzels, or nuts
- Extreme temperatures like very hot soup or ice cream
- Citrus fruits like lemons or limes
- Greasy foods like pizza or burgers
The acid and oils in some foods can cause irritation or swelling. Crunchy foods also require more lip movement which could displace the filler while it stabilizes.
How long should I wait to drink alcohol after lip injections?
It’s best to avoid drinking alcohol for 24-48 hours after lip filler injections. Like other beverages, alcohol should only be consumed room temperature or cooler to minimize swelling.
Alcohol is dehydrating which can prolong healing. It also dilates blood vessels, potentially increasing bruising and swelling. If swelling occurs after drinking alcohol soon after lip fillers, recovery may take longer.
Other tips for eating and drinking after lip fillers
- Use a gentle straw to minimize lip movement
- Take small bites of soft foods for the first 24 hours
- Avoid extremely hot or cold foods/drinks
- Stay hydrated with cool water
- Don’t share drinks or utensils to avoid infection
- Keep your lips moisturized with lip balm
How soon can I workout after lip injections?
Vigorous exercise like cardio or weight training should be avoided for at least 24 hours after lip filler. The increased blood circulation from physical activity may contribute to swelling and bruising.
Light exercise like walking is fine a day after your procedure. Just listen to your body – if an activity causes pain or discomfort in your lips, stop. Sports or intense training can typically be resumed around 3 days after lip injections.
When will lip filler side effects subside?
It’s normal to experience some side effects from lip injections for the first few days. These may include:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Tenderness
- Bruising
- Asymmetry
- Lumps or bumps
The most severe swelling and redness usually resolves within 3-4 days. However, your lips may remain slightly swollen for up to 2 weeks. Tenderness, lumps, and mild bruising can last up to 10 days.
Using cold compresses can help minimize swelling. Pain medication is also recommended for the first few days to keep you comfortable.
Contact your provider if swelling, redness, or pain persist beyond 2 weeks, as this may indicate an infection or other complication needing treatment.
When can I resume wearing lipstick after lip injections?
It’s best to avoid wearing lipstick or lip gloss for 24 hours after getting lip fillers. The chemicals could irritate your tender lips.
After the first day, you may apply a light lip balm or hydrating lipstick. Heavier, longer-lasting matte lipsticks are best avoided for 3-5 days until your lips are less tender.
Take care when applying or removing lip color not to pull at your lips which could displace the filler. Gentle makeup removal is key.
How long do I need to avoid sun after lip injections?
Too much sun exposure can inflame your lips and worsen swelling after filler. You should minimize direct sunlight for 24-48 hours.
After that, be sure to apply an SPF 30 (or higher) lip balm if you’ll be in the sun. The sun protection will help prevent UV damage which can break down the filler more quickly.
When can I have follow-up lip injections?
For optimal results, lip filler is typically done as a series of treatments spaced apart by several weeks or months. Most plastic surgeons recommend waiting at least 2 weeks between initial and follow-up lip injections.
This allows time for complete healing and for any swelling to resolve. It will also allow you and your provider to properly assess the results so far and determine the correct amount of filler needed moving forward.
Some practices may advise waiting up to 6 weeks between sessions. Discuss timing with your provider to establish an appropriate treatment schedule.
Conclusion
Healing times can vary, but most patients can return to eating and drinking as normal within 24-48 hours following lip filler injections. Soft foods are ideal for the first day before slowly resuming a regular diet.
Drinking should be done carefully with a straw and avoiding extreme temperatures. Things like kissing, strenuous exercise, and wearing lipstick are best avoided for at least the first few days.
With proper aftercare, swelling and tenderness should gradually improve within about 2 weeks. Follow your provider’s advice for when to schedule follow up appointments to achieve your desired results.
