Higher Occurence of Cold Sores After Lip Injections?

Hello SLK.  The answer to your question is yes, we have seen this type of reaction previously.  More often than not, it is after the more traumatic procedures such as laser resurfacing, but any trauma around the lips can bring on a cold sore as well.  The onset of the cold sore may be quite some time after the actual procedure and during the healing process. If this is a recurring issue in the months after treatment, ask your practitioner for a prescription to head... more

If you have a strong history of cold sore development, then it might be a good idea to start an anti-viral like Valtrx before your lip is injected to prevent an outbreak after treatment..

Any trauma can induce the virus to reactivate. Traumas include sun, needle punctures such as in lip injections with fillers, lasers, chemical peels and stress. The risk of a cold sore is immediately after an injection. If you have a history of cold sores on the lip would recommend taking Valtrex 2 grams in the morning and evening of the procedure day. We also pre- treat patients with a history of cold sores to prevent reactivation of the virus. Valtrex is safe and has minimal side... more

This is one of the better questions posed on Real Self since I have been a member. It is pretty axiomatic that cold sores (herpes labialis) may occur following filler injections in this area. This probably has something to do with the activation of the nerve in which the virus has set up its home. Whether a procedure on or around the lips results in herpes activation months following such treatment is unknown, as far as I could ascertain. This might be a good area to research.... more

If you have a history of cold sores on the lips (herpes labialis), then it's a good idea to have your doctor prescribe an anti-viral drug like valcyclovir to be taken around the time of your lip injection. I doubt you're more likely to get flare-ups after the initial injection, as I have not seen this as a common occurrence in my patients. Best regards.

SLK350, Most likely not. Lip augmentation with minimally invasive procedures is a quick way to rejuvenate and to create more youthful, fuller lips. Injectable filler material includes collagen, hyaluronic acid, or your own fat. Side effects may occur from the treatment, such as a cold sore flare up. Cold sores around the lips are very common. Sores around the mouth come and leave relatively quickly, usually lasting a couple days. Any stress, procedures, surgery, or trauma on or around the... more