Wait, Can You Work out After Lip Fillers?
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If you’ve ever yearned for a slightly plumper pout then the thought of getting lip fillers has probably crossed your mind at least once (after all, there’s only so much a lip scrub/balm/plumping serum can really do).
But since lip injections involve a bit more commitment (and potential risk) than simply layering on your favourite lip serum, it definitely pays to do your research – both on how to prep for your treatment and on *exactly* what to do afterwards.
And one of the biggest post-filler no no’s is strenuous exercise in the 48 hours after your treatment.
But exactly what level of physical activity is off the cards? And why shouldn’t you be exercising straight after fillers?
We asked board-certified antiageing expert Dr Saulis Banionis, dermatology nurse practitioner Akis Ntonos, a cosmetic nurse injector Lilian Alishaev for the lowdown on whether you can work out after fillers.
Can you work out after lip fillers?
As we’ve mentioned, you’ll get the best results from lip fillers when you know that there are activities you should avoid immediately after the cosmetic procedure. Take the proper precautions when it comes to aftercare and you’ll avoid accidentally reducing the success of your lip filler treatment.
To be on the safe side, this involves avoiding *all* forms of exercise for up to 48 hours after your lip fillers.
Akis tells us, “it’s advisable to avoid intense workouts, heavy lifting, or activities that cause excessive sweating for at least 24 to 48 hours.”
He explains, “the primary reason for this precaution is to minimise the risk of increased swelling or movement of the filler within the lips.
“Strenuous exercise can elevate blood pressure and circulation, which may impede the healing process and potentially affect the final outcome of the treatment.”
Image – Floraldeco/Adobe
Dr Banionis agrees, adding that even light exercise like yoga or swimming should be avoided for those first couple of days after fillers.
This means that you’ll have to curtail your exercise habits for a couple of days post facial fillers. And while this may not be a bummer for everyone, gym bunnies may resent the interruption to their exercise schedule.
Just know that avoiding exercise is an important step in getting the full effect from your lip filler injections (and you can always just go extra with the healthy diet for those days).
What are lip fillers?
Ok, so you know you shouldn’t be working out after fillers, but what if you’re looking for a little more background info? We’ve got you.
In case you didn’t know, lip fillers are a cosmetic treatment that adds volume to the lips. Carried out my a expert injectors or a cosmetic surgeon, fillers promise plumper lips in an appointment short enough to fit into your lunch break.
The procedure involves injecting a dermal filler (generally hyaluronic acid fillers) into the lips. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that occurs naturally in the body (although lip fillers are made with a synthetic form of hyaluronic acid).
Image – Sveltok/Adobe
There are a few different filler brand names on offer too but the most common are Juvéderm, Restylane, Radiesse, and your plastic surgeon, aesthetician, or dermatologist Will be able to help you understand any differences and which one might be best for you.
We’ll look at the benefits, risks and best practices of lip filler in more detail below but just know that doing your research and finding an experienced professional (not just some random you’ve seen on Instagram) is vital to getting the best results.
The benefits of lip fillers
Full, juicy lips can be pretty attractive (as can thinner a pout), and achieving that look is one of the main benefits of lip filler.
There are added bonuses too though since lip augmentation can also help to plump out any fine lines and wrinkles on the lips and also improve symmetry. (Just know that fillers can’t stop the wrinkles to the sides of your mouth, you’ll need Botox for those ones)
Dr Banionis explains, “you will notice an immediate difference in the appearance of your lips after the procedure. They will likely look fuller and more defined.”
As a final bonus, filler is generally safe and effective. And since they only last between 6 months and two years and fade as time goes on, you don’t have to commit to the results permanently.
Image – Golubovy/Adobe
What are the risks of lip fillers?
Lip filler procedure is generally safe. However, there are a few risks that patients should be aware of before undergoing the procedure.
The biggest risk is bruising around the treated area, a pretty common side effect immediately after the procedure which can last up to two weeks.
Bruising is also often accompanied by swelling and possible lumps or asymmetry. Again, these are temporary side effects and generally resolve as your lip fillers settle.
Dr Banionis explains, “Swelling, bruising, and redness around the injection sites are common temporary side effects. These effects usually subside within a few days to a week. Some people might also experience tenderness, lumps, or unevenness in the lips initially, but these issues often resolve as the filler settles.”
Mayo Clinic says that “you might have mild discomfort, bruising and swelling for up to a week. After the swelling goes down, you might need a touch-up injection for best results.”
There are a few other more serious lip filler risks in addition to bruising though, with blood clots, infection and tissue necrosis also among the potential risks.
Going to a highly experienced professional for your treatment is one of the best ways to reduce the chance of serious side effects.
How to prepare for your lip fillers
In addition to restricting or avoiding certain activities during recovery, you´ll also need to prep before your lip filler procedure.
This includes avoiding any medications that thin the blood (like aspirin) before your treatment. Dr Banionis explains, “avoid taking blood-thinning medications or supplements that can increase the risk of bruising.”
Discuss any medications you’re taking with your practitioner before the procedure to make sure that you’re not taking any medications that work as blood thinners.
Dr Banionis also recommends, “on the day of the procedure, it’s best to arrive with clean skin, without any makeup or lip products.”
If you have a history of cold sores, you should also let your practitioner know before your treatment.
Lip filler aftercare
Aside from avoiding exercise what else should you be doing after your fillers to make sure your final results are what you were expecting?
According to the experts, the main thing is avoiding putting pressure on your new fillers or touching the injection site.
Lilan explains, “you shouldn’t apply any pressure on the product or manipulate it. This includes no kissing, sipping through a straw, smoking, oral sex, massaging the lips. Any excessive pressure will result in the product moving and possibly migrating.”
Image – Friendsstock/Adobe
You’ll also want to avoid excessive heat (like saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, sunbathing or hot baths) for 48 hours after your treatment.
Remember that an ice pack can help to soothe any pain and bring down swelling on the injected area – and drink plenty of water (always a good idea anyway).
Dr Banionis explains, “applying ice packs and taking over-the-counter pain relievers can help with any swelling or discomfort. It’s also important to stay hydrated and protect your lips from excessive sun exposure.”
Finally, always follow any medical advice given to you at your lip filler appointment and make sure to attend any follow up appointments your professional schedules in with you.
The takeaway
A plumper, more symmetrical pout and increased lip volume are within easy reach after your dermal filler treatment if you follow the aftercare instructions of your cosmetic specialists carefully.
Avoiding intense workouts, putting pressure on the treatment area, heat and direct sunlight for 48 hours after your injectable lip fillers is a good way to get the results you were hoping for and reduce your risk of infection and other issues.
After all, a few days without exercise isn’t going to hurt too much and you can always make up for it with a marathon workout sess once your filler recovery period is over!
Meet the experts
Lilian Alishaev is a cosmetic nurse injector at the Manhattan Laser Spa, specialising in treatments like treatments such as Botox, Dermal Fillers, Platelet Rich Plasma, RADIESSE®, Kybella®.
Akis Ntonos, FNP-C, is a Dermatology Nurse Practitioner and Injectable Specialist, (a.k.a. Facial Architect) and co-founder of Aion Aesthetics, New York’s premier injectables clinic.
Dr Saulis Banionis is board certified by The American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and was trained extensively in aesthetic and regenerative medicine to become an expert in anti-ageing medicine. His practice is PB Antiaging and he has also worked as a Medical Expert for the Florida Board of Medicine.
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