Tissue necrosis after Restylane in lips. Is this normal bruising and swelling? (Photo)

I appreciate your concern and this does not look like tissue loss or necrosis. It looks like a bruise and likely your risks of bruising were elevated because you took ibuprofen. Unfortunately, this happens all the time as people tend to forget this important step for a quick recovery. Talk to your injector if your symptoms persist.Good luck. Dr. ALDO 

Hello and thank you for your question. It looks like what you have is just a bruise. Bruising and swelling are common minor adverse events that can occur after the injection of dermal fillers (or anytime a needle is placed into the skin). Fortunately, they are temporary and there are ways to help minimize the effects. Pre-procedure, I recommend my patients try to avoid blood thinners (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, alcohol) for 5-7 days prior. Additionally, Arnica (a homeopathic medication used to help alleviate bruising, swelling, and inflammation) can be take a 2-3 days prior to your injections. During and immediately post injection, it is important to apply ice to the area being treated. Post injections, we apply a topical Arnica gel and provide Arnical tablets to our patients, which has been found to significantly prevent and reduce bruising and swelling. For our areas on the face besides the lips, we can use the V beam laser to also help prevent and treat the bruising. Your bruise should go away within a few days. Best of luck.

Thank you for your question. Bruising and swelling are common side effects, especially after taking Ibuprofen. The symptoms should subside given time.