Lip Filler Pre- and Post-Care

Before Your Lip Filler Appointment (Pre-Care)

☐ Avoid blood thinners (unless medically necessary) for 5–7 days prior:
Aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), vitamin E, fish oil, turmeric, Ginkgo biloba, ginseng, garlic supplements. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is OK.

☐ No alcohol for 24–48 hours prior: Alcohol increases bleeding risk and swelling.

☐ Avoid dental work (cleanings, fillings, whitening, etc.) for 2 weeks before and after treatment.

☐ If prone to cold sores (HSV-1):
Notify SOKO. Begin antiviral prophylaxis (e.g., Valtrex 500mg BID x 3 days) starting the day before treatment.

☐ Hydrate well: Plump, hydrated lips enhance filler integration.

☐ Avoid active skin treatments around the mouth for 3–5 days prior: Retinoids, exfoliants, acids, waxing, threading, dermaplaning, etc.

☐ No makeup or skincare on the lips or surrounding skin the day of treatment. Clean, product-free skin is essential.

☐ Plan ahead: Mild to moderate swelling and potential bruising are common—avoid important events, photoshoots, or travel for 3–5 days after.

After Your Lip Filler Appointment (Post-Care)

First 24 Hours (Day 0)

☐ Expect: swelling, tenderness, firmness, and possible bruising.
☐ Apply cold compresses gently in 5–10 minute intervals (wrapped in clean cloth).
☐ Sleep with head elevated to reduce swelling. Avoid sleeping face-down.
☐ No makeup on lips for at least 6 hours; ideally wait until the next day.
☐ Avoid the following for 24–48 hours:

• Strenuous exercise or sweating
• Kissing or pressing on lips
• Spicy/salty foods, alcohol
• Hot environments (sauna, hot tub, hot drinks)
• Dental work or facial massages

Days 1–5

☐ Swelling and bruising may peak around Day 2, then resolve gradually.
☐ Use arnica gel or tablets (optional) to reduce bruising.
☐ No facial treatments or dental procedures for 2 weeks.
☐ Stay hydrated, use lip balm (e.g., Aquaphor or Vaseline) as needed.
☐ Avoid picking or massaging the lips unless specifically instructed.

Lumpiness or Bumps – When & How to Massage

IMPORTANT:
Some firmness and small lumps are normal during the healing process as filler integrates with tissue. Most resolve on their own in 2–3 weeks.

Massage Instructions (If Needed):

Start gentle massage only after Day 5–7, if advised by your injector.

• Use clean hands and apply light pressure using 2 fingers (index + middle).

• Gently roll the lump in a circular or side-to-side motion for 30–60 seconds.

• Do not over-massage or press too hard—less is more.

• Repeat 1–2x daily if advised, up to 7–10 days.

🚫 Do not massage before Day 5, unless specifically directed. Early pressure can displace filler or worsen swelling.

What’s Normal

• Lumps or firmness are common for up to 2 weeks.
• Asymmetry in early days is typically due to swelling or filler settling.
• Bruising may look dark purple/blue and fade over 5–10 days.
• Tenderness when smiling, chewing, or drinking through a straw is normal.
•  

When to Contact SOKO

Call/text 913‑232‑2224 if you experience:

• Severe pain or skin color changes (especially pale/white, dusky, or dark blotches)

• Cold sores or blistering

• Worsening swelling after 72 hours

• Fever or chills

• Any signs of vascular compromise (pain, blanching, dusky color, persistent tingling)

Follow-Up & Refinement

We recommend a follow-up at 2–3 weeks for assessment, photos, and touch-up if needed. Most clients need 1–2 sessions for optimal symmetry and shape, especially for full correction or first-time lip filler.