A client recently visited our Greenwood Village med spa excited for her first dermal filler appointment. She had done her research, picked her provider, and knew what she wanted—fuller cheeks and a refreshed under-eye area. But right after the treatment, she panicked. "My face feels puffy and uneven—is this normal?" she asked. The answer? Yes, and it’s something every first-timer should be prepared for.

If you're thinking about getting dermal fillers or you've just had them done, you might be wondering what's normal and what’s not. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, over 3.4 million people received soft tissue fillers last year—and most had questions about what comes next. Understanding what to expect after dermal fillers can ease your mind and help you enjoy your results with confidence.

In this article, we’ll walk you through what happens after your appointment—from the first 24 hours all the way to long-term results. We'll keep things simple and conversational, so even if you're completely new to this, you’ll feel like a pro by the end.

What Happens Right After the Treatment?

Immediately after your dermal filler treatment, your body begins adjusting to the injected product. While some results are visible right away, the treated areas might appear slightly different than expected at first. Here’s what you can expect immediately following your appointment:

Swelling: This is a completely natural response to the injections. Swelling may vary depending on the area treated, the amount of filler used, and your body’s sensitivity.
Redness and small bumps: These usually appear at the injection sites and typically fade within a few hours.
Tenderness or sensitivity: Some areas of the face, like the lips and under the eyes, may feel sore or slightly uncomfortable for the first couple of days.
Mild bruising: Especially in areas with thin skin or a high number of blood vessels.

It's a good idea to plan your treatment at least a few days before any major event, giving your skin time to settle. During this initial period, avoid wearing makeup over the treated areas, touching your face excessively, or engaging in activities that increase blood flow, like intense workouts or hot yoga.

The First 48 Hours: Key Healing Stage

The first two days post-treatment are crucial in terms of healing and setting the stage for long-lasting results. It’s during this period that most clients experience peak swelling and any minor bruising becomes more noticeable. Proper aftercare can help reduce side effects and improve comfort.

Here’s how to support your body during this stage:

Apply ice packs intermittently: Use a cold compress wrapped in a cloth for 10–15 minutes at a time. This reduces swelling and provides relief.
Sleep with your head elevated: Use an extra pillow or recline to avoid extra pressure on the treated areas.
Avoid strenuous activities: Give your body time to rest and heal. Heavy workouts can increase swelling and prolong bruising.
Stay away from heat and sun: Saunas, tanning beds, or prolonged sun exposure can worsen inflammation.
Stay well-hydrated and avoid alcohol or salty foods: These can increase water retention and swelling.

If bruising appears, over-the-counter remedies like arnica cream or vitamin K gel can help fade marks more quickly. Don’t be alarmed if one side heals faster than the other—this is common and usually evens out by day four or five.

When Will I See the Final Results?

Although dermal fillers provide immediate volume and lift, your final results take time to fully develop. The full effects become visible once swelling subsides and the filler has had time to integrate with your natural tissue.

What to expect:

Day 1–3: Initial swelling, some redness, and possible asymmetry.
Day 4–7: Swelling and bruising start to diminish.
Day 7–14: Final shape, volume, and texture become apparent.

By the second week, your filler should feel soft and settled. You'll notice smoother skin, more defined contours, and an overall refreshed appearance. If you had multiple areas treated, they may heal at different rates—this is completely normal. Your provider may schedule a follow-up visit around the two-week mark to assess results and make any necessary adjustments or minor touch-ups.

How Long Will My Fillers Last?

Dermal fillers are not permanent, but they are long-lasting and can be maintained easily with regular touch-ups. The duration of your results depends on several factors:

Typical longevity by area:

Lips: 6–9 months due to high movement and vascularity.
Cheeks and mid-face: 12–18 months depending on the density of the filler.
Jawline and chin: 12–24 months with firmer, more structural fillers.
Under-eye area: 6–12 months depending on metabolism and lifestyle.

Other factors that affect how long your results last include:

Your metabolism: Faster metabolisms may break down filler more quickly.
Skincare routine and sun exposure: Daily SPF and skincare maintenance can prolong results.
Smoking and stress: These can impact skin quality and filler longevity.

Most clients return for touch-ups once or twice a year to maintain their desired look and ensure natural aging transitions smoothly.

When to Call Your Provider

While side effects are generally mild and temporary, it’s important to recognize when something might not be normal. Serious complications are rare, but prompt action can prevent bigger issues.

Contact your provider immediately if you notice:

Intense or throbbing pain, especially if it worsens over time.
Discoloration of the skin (gray, blue, or white patches), which may indicate reduced blood flow.
Blisters or open sores near the injection site.
Persistent lumps or nodules that don’t improve after two weeks.
Signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, pus, or fever.

Trust your instincts. If you’re ever uncertain, your provider should always be available to address your concerns and offer guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I fly after getting dermal fillers?

Yes, you can fly after getting dermal fillers, but it's best to wait 24–48 hours to allow swelling to go down and avoid pressure-related discomfort.

2. Will I feel the filler under my skin?

You may feel slight firmness or lumps initially, but once the filler settles, it should feel natural and blend in with your facial tissue.

3. Can I get facial treatments after fillers?

You should avoid facials, massages, or skin treatments for at least one to two weeks post-filler to prevent shifting or irritating the injected areas.

4. How soon can I wear makeup after filler injections?

It's generally safe to apply makeup 12–24 hours after treatment, as long as there’s no open skin or significant irritation.

How MD Body and Med Spa Can Help You

At MD Body and Med Spa, we don’t just provide treatments—we offer personalized care every step of the way. Our licensed estheticians and experienced injectors are committed to helping you look and feel your best, with natural, beautiful results you’ll love.

Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:

Thorough Consultations: We listen to your goals, assess your facial structure, and explain your best options in detail.
Tailored Treatment Plans: From product selection to placement strategy, we create a plan that enhances your natural features.
Expert Injection Techniques: Our team uses the latest methods to minimize bruising and optimize outcomes.
Clear Aftercare Instructions: You’ll leave knowing exactly what to expect and how to care for your skin.
Reliable Follow-Up Support: We check in, answer your questions, and offer adjustments if needed to make sure you’re completely happy.

📍 Visit us at: 7939 E Arapahoe Rd #210, Greenwood Village, CO 80112
📞 Call now to book your consultation: (303) 220-1100

Let MD Body and Med Spa be your partner in looking and feeling your best. Whether it’s your first filler or part of your regular beauty routine, we’re here to guide you with experience, care, and confidence.

What to Expect After Dermal Fillers: Healing & Results