Good aftercare is part of a good result. Dermal filler is a quick treatment, but the way you look after the area in the first day or two genuinely influences how comfortably you heal and how your results settle. This is a general, nurse-led guide — your own clinician will always give you specific aftercare for your treatment, and that advice comes first.
The first 24 hours
In the first day, keep things gentle. Try to avoid touching, rubbing or massaging the area unless you have been specifically shown to, so the product can settle where it was placed. It is normal to see some swelling, minor redness or small bruising — this is part of the body responding to treatment and usually settles over a few days.
What to avoid for a day or two
As a rule of thumb, it is sensible to avoid strenuous exercise, very hot environments (saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga) and alcohol for 24–48 hours, as these can increase swelling or bruising. Where possible, sleep slightly elevated on your first night and try not to lie face-down. Your clinician will tell you if anything specific applies to your treatment.
Looking after the skin
Keep the area clean and avoid heavy make-up over fresh injection points for the rest of the day, to reduce the chance of irritation. After that, a gentle routine and good sun protection support healthy skin and a tidy result. Avoid facials, microneedling or other treatments over the area until your clinician says the time is right.
Helping swelling and bruising settle
Mild swelling is most noticeable in the first 24–72 hours and then eases. A cool (not icy) compress held gently against the area can help in the early hours if you have been advised it is suitable. Staying hydrated and resting well never hurts. If bruising appears, it typically fades over several days like any other bruise.
When to get in touch
Most people sail through with nothing more than a little swelling. But always contact your clinic promptly if you experience anything that worries you — for example increasing or severe pain, significant or spreading changes in skin colour, a white or dusky area, or signs of infection. A prescriber-led clinic can assess and manage concerns clinically, which is one of the reasons who treats you matters.
Give your results time
Filler results are not fully “finished” on day one. As any initial swelling settles over the following week or two, you see the true, more natural result. Try not to judge the outcome too early, and keep any review appointment you are offered — it is the best moment to check everything has settled beautifully.
Aftercare is part of the care
At KM Aesthetics, your treatment does not end when you leave the room. Clear aftercare, a point of contact if you need it, and a prescriber on hand are all part of how we look after you. If you have a question after any treatment, we would always rather you asked.
This article is general information, not medical advice, and does not replace a personal consultation. Suitability for any treatment is assessed individually. Results vary from person to person.