Will my upper lip go down? Can fat be sucked back out if it doesn't? (photo)

Question

I had fat transferred to my lips about 50 hours ago, which is how long I was told it would take swelling to subside. I'm currently freaking out because I asked my surgeon to pump my lips but keep their shape and size natural and not fill them too much, but this seems really excessive. Please tell me my upper lip is still swollen and will go down...I had relatively thin lips before but I did not want giant lips either. Can the fat be sucked back out if my lips stay huge??

Nima Shemirani, MD · Answer

Dear SydneyLoo,Swelling 50 hours after fat transfer is very normal. Swelling can last up to 8 weeks so I would be patient at this time and try not to worry. Icing and taking Ibuprofen will help reduce the swelling. If you have any more concerns, I would bring this up with your surgeon. Best regards,Nima Shemirani

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear SydneyLoo,
you shouldn't be worried since you are still in early stage of recovery. Your swelling should subside. You can used ice and ibuprofen to help reduce it. 
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, swelling is typical after fat transfer and can last 3-6 months. I recommend prp to help improve final results. Icing the area, predisone, ibuoprofen and venus legacy treatments can help reduce swelling. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question!  You are still very early in the recovery process.  Your lips will likely still change quite a bit before you achieve your final result.  Just be patient and trust your doctor.  Good luck!

Humberto Palladino, MD, FACS · Answer

You are very early in your recovery. Swelling is worse at 72 hr and then starts to improve. May take a full 6-8 weeks to get to the final result. Is normal to feel worried due to swelling at the beginning.

Will my upper lip go down? Can fat be sucked back out if it doesn't? (photo)

Answers (6)