So, you’ve gotten a round of dermal fillers or Botox®, and now you’re wondering: What should I expect after injectables?

While recovery times will inevitably vary depending on which injectables you’ve received, how much, and where, let’s go over some general timelines and recovery tips that apply in most situations.

What to Expect After Dermal Fillers or Injectables

Injectables are chemical substances that are injected into the skin with a fine needle to achieve an aesthetic goal — like fewer lines and wrinkles or plumper lips. There are two main types of injectables: dermal fillers and BOTOX. Whereas dermal fillers aim to plump up the skin and add volume to places like the cheeks and lips, neuromodulators like Botox® and Dysport help get rid of fine lines and wrinkles.

Patients may receive either one or both types of injectables at any given appointment. Sometimes, multiple appointments are necessary to achieve the goals of the patient. Over time, the effects of both dermal fillers and neuromodulators will wear off, and the patient will need to revisit our office for another round of injections.

Most patients who receive dermal fillers or Botox®/Dysport can resume their normal activities right away. However, intense physical activity should be avoided for at least a few days. Beyond that, let’s take a look at the specifics of what to expect for each type of injectable.

After Dermal Fillers

Most patients have some level of redness, tenderness, bruising, and swelling after dermal filler injections. These symptoms usually only last for a few days, however, and simple over-the-counter pain medications may be advised to help reduce symptoms more quickly.

When it comes to bruising and swelling, these symptoms may range from light to severe depending on the locations of your fillers and how much filler was administered. Starting immediately after treatment, the bruising and swelling should begin to go down.

You may also experience redness and numbness near the injection sites after dermal fillers. In some cases, hard areas or what may feel like lumps can form where the injections were performed. Certain patients may have a hypersensitive reaction with what appears to be hives and excessive swelling. Numbness can also be common.

In extremely rare cases, injections or other complications may occur. Always contact our office right away if any of your symptoms are excessively extreme or uncomfortable or if you have questions about recovery.

Remember that it’s important to discuss exactly what to expect after your dermal fillers with Dr. Steinberg at your appointment. Your projected recovery time and care instructions may vary.

After Neuromodulators (Botox® or Dysport)

After getting Botox® or Dysport injections, remember to exercise your treated muscles for the first hour or so. For example, if you get Botox® injections near your eyebrows, raise your eyebrows up and down to help work the Botox® within the muscles. If you have frown line injections, practice smiling and frowning.

Small marks or bumps may occur after Botox® or Dysport. Bruising is also a possibility, as is some slight redness and swelling. Rarely, patients may get a headache after neuromodulator injections. If this occurs, Tylenol may help, but always consult Dr. Steinberg’s instructions to be sure.

If you notice any muscle weakness, difficult breathing or speaking, or other serious changes, contact our office right away. These symptoms are extremely rare; however, for any questions or concerns whatsoever regarding your aftercare, do not hesitate to contact us.

As always, be sure to speak with Dr. Steinberg about your specific care instructions and a recovery timeline that is unique to you.

What Not to Do After Lip Injections and Other Injectables

Whether you’re getting lip injections, Botox® for frown lines, or fillers and neuromodulators all around the face, here are some things to avoid directly after your injectables appointment:

Strenuous physical exercise
Rubbing your face
Aggressively washing your face
Using exfoliating scrubs on your face
Facial treatments (like chemical peels or massages)
Drinking alcohol
Drinking/eating a large amount of caffeine
Lying on your face directly
Entering a sauna or hot tub
Going tanning (outdoors or at a tanning bed)
Taking blood thinners (NSAIDS like ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.)

Other Injectables Aftercare Tips

It’s best to simply take it easy for a few days after your injectables appointment. Especially for the first few hours, hang out on the couch (sitting up is best directly after treatment), drink plenty of fluids, and relax. Avoid touching your face, and do not use any unnecessary products near the treated areas.

FAQ: Dermal Fillers, Botox®, and Dysport

Are dermal fillers painful?

Dermal filler injections should not be painful. While patients will feel a slight prick with each injection, the discomfort should be moderate and momentary when the injections are performed properly.

How much do dermal fillers cost?

Most dermal fillers start at $750 per syringe. Based on the type of filler you require and how much, that cost may increase. There is no way of knowing exactly how much fillers will cost until Dr. Steinberg meets with you at a consultation appointment. The same goes for products like Botox® and Dysport.

Do dermal fillers make you look younger?

Yes, dermal fillers can give you a younger, fresher look. They do this by adding volume to areas of the face that may have gradually lost fat and plumpness over time. Fillers can also fill in fine lines and wrinkles.

How long do dermal fillers last?

Dermal fillers generally last for several months up to a year. However, this varies based on where the fillers are injected and what type of filler is being used.

Can injectables be combined with other procedures?

Certainly. If you are interested in other facial procedures such as chin liposuction, eyelid surgery, or otoplasty or body procedures such as breast augmentation, breast reduction, or tummy tucks, etc., just be sure to bring these procedures up at your consultation appointment with Dr. Steinberg.

How do injectables work?

We have an article on how BOTOX injections work where you can learn more!

Schedule a Consultation

Interested in learning more about dermal fillers, Botox®, or Dysport? To find out what injectables would be best for you, schedule a consultation with Dr. Steinberg today! She’s a female plastic surgeon that gets it.