Swelling from Restylane making lips hard and uncomfortable

Nissan Pilest, MD answers: Pain, hardness, difficulty smiling after Restylane lip injections

I had Restylane injected into my lips 13 hours ago. The redness has went away, but the pain is unbearable still. My lips feel hard and pouty (I like the pouty), but its hard to smile and eat. Is this normal?


Nissan Pilest, MD
1 month ago

Hyaluronic acids absorb water. Restylane has powerful absorption powers and in the lips it is very normal to have swelling that is beyond what you anticipated. Until the body balances the fluid levels between your tissue and the Restylane, the swelling will exaggerate the appearance and make your lips feel very firm.

As suggested by Dr. Chen, cold compresses and Tylenol are helpful. I would add too that you might avoid highly salted foods and be careful to keep your face our of the sun. The tissue will be stretched and far more susceptible to burn or irritation.

A good lip balm that is soothing will keep your lips from over drying too.

Your lips will "go down", so don't be too over concerned. Of course if any unusual hardness lasts past 5 to 7 days, you should revisit your physician.

Everyone has variable response levels to Restylane - and resolution times for the balance of tissue fluid and filler.

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