Temporary Edema or a More Serious Problem from Restylane Injection?

Hyaluronic acid facial fillers are commonly used to treat the lips, nasolabial folds, tear trough, and face. After injection, the hyaluronic acid gel that is contained in the filler will absorb water and temporarily appear swollen or edematous. This transient swelling will go away with time, usually within a week. If the swelling persists, you should contact your physician and have him examine the area to make sure you are not developing a reaction or infection of the area. Typically,... more

Swelling (edema) is common after Restylane and usually subsides after 7-10 days from the date of injection. If you are still experiencing swelling after 10 days you should contact your physician.

Hi lmmr, Check with you injecting physician.  The swelling and edema following Restylane in the lips should resolve between 24 to 48 hours, 72 at the most.  Good luck and hopefully all's well by the time you read this. Dr. P

There is often a bit of fluid buildup after either Restylane or Juvederm, so don't worry yet.  I'd make sure to put ice or cold compresses on it and avoid manipulating the area in the meantime.  If it doesn't go down within a week, that would be very surprising. 

Edema (swelling) is common after Restalyne or Juvederm, and will usually only last several days or a week after treatment. How many days has it been? If edema is still present after 10 days you should seek out treatment. If swelling is present after 10 days your doctor could inject the effected area with hyaluronidase and that will melt the Restalyn.

The basic rule of thumb for our practice is that swelling after Restylane will resolve within about a week. If you still have fluid buildup or bumps a week after treatment, you should definitely visit your injector for evaluation. If the product is uneven, hyaluronidase, an enzyme that will dissolve the Restylane, may be an option for you.