How many days does swelling last after hyaluronic acid filler injection?
Disease description:
I am a 28-year-old woman who recently received hyaluronic acid filler injections to improve my facial contours. After the procedure, I noticed some swelling at the injection sites. Although my doctor has informed me that this is a normal occurrence, I am still concerned about how long the swelling will last.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Lu
Hyaluronic acid fillers are a common cosmetic procedure used to improve skin wrinkles, fine lines, and to add facial volume. Mild swelling after the procedure is a normal reaction, as the injection process may cause temporary damage and inflammation to the local tissues. In most cases, this swelling peaks within one to two days after the procedure and then gradually subsides. For most people, the swelling will mostly resolve within about a week.
To accelerate the reduction of swelling, appropriate cold compresses may be applied within the first 48 hours after injection. Cold compresses help constrict capillaries and reduce blood leakage, thereby alleviating swelling and pain. Ice packs or cold compress wraps can be used, but care should be taken to avoid direct skin contact. It is advisable to wrap the ice pack in a towel to prevent skin frostbite.
Three days after the injection, local heat application may be used to promote absorption of the edema. When applying heat, ensure the temperature is moderate to avoid burns, and the duration of heat application should not be too long. After hyaluronic acid injection, strenuous exercise should be avoided, as it may accelerate blood circulation and worsen swelling. At the same time, maintaining adequate sleep and rest will help the body recover and reduce swelling.
