Posted on 12 November 2025
One of the most common questions Mo Harb hears is, What is the recovery time after getting lip filler injections? While lip fillers are a minimally invasive treatment, the lips are highly sensitive, so some temporary swelling or tenderness is completely normal. The good news is that recovery is usually quick, with most people feeling comfortable within a few days.
According to Mo Harb, the first day after treatment is when swelling is at its peak. Lips may feel tight, tender, or slightly uneven, and mild bruising can appear. Some people describe a feeling of firmness or pressure, especially when smiling or talking. Applying cold compresses, staying well hydrated, and avoiding heat or alcohol can help reduce swelling during this phase.
By day three, swelling typically begins to settle, and the lips start to soften. Any bruising often fades during this period, and the lips look more even and natural. Mo Harb explains that this is when patients begin to appreciate the shape and balance of their results, although the filler is still settling into the tissue. Normal activities can usually be resumed, including light exercise, as long as there’s no discomfort.
Most people find their lips feel fully normal within one to two weeks. At this point, any residual swelling has resolved, the filler has integrated smoothly, and the lips move naturally. Mo Harb advises waiting at least two weeks before judging the final result or considering any adjustments, as the lips can take time to settle evenly.
To support smooth healing, Mo Harb recommends avoiding excessive pressure on the lips, intense exercise, saunas, and direct heat for the first few days. Refraining from makeup on the lips for 24 hours and skipping dental appointments for two weeks also helps minimise irritation and swelling.
According to Mo Harb, most people experience visible swelling for two to three days, feel comfortable within a week, and see their final results by two weeks. Recovery is typically straightforward, with minimal disruption to daily life. With proper aftercare and realistic expectations, lip filler recovery is smooth, leaving lips soft, balanced, and naturally enhanced.
Most lips take around 7 to 14 days to fully heal after filler injections. Swelling and tenderness are most noticeable in the first 48 to 72 hours, then gradually subside as the filler settles into the tissue. According to Mo Harb, while the lips may look presentable within a few days, internal healing continues for up to two weeks, which is why final results should always be assessed after this period.
Most people begin to look and feel more like themselves within 3 to 5 days after lip fillers. By this point, swelling has reduced significantly, bruising (if present) is fading, and the lips appear more even. Mo Harb advises waiting a full two weeks before judging the final shape, as subtle swelling can linger and affect how the lips look in the early stages.
After lip fillers, it’s best to avoid excessive heat, intense exercise, alcohol, and direct pressure on the lips for at least 24 to 48 hours. Mo Harb also recommends avoiding lip makeup for 24 hours, skipping saunas and steam rooms for a few days, and postponing dental treatments for around two weeks. These precautions help minimise swelling, reduce bruising, and allow the filler to settle smoothly.
