I just had Juvederm on my lips with a cold sore present. I was on valtrex 24 hours prior. Is this bad?

Question

Payman Kosari, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,I typically recommend against injection of the lips or use of lasers around the lips during an active infection.  It is a good thing that you started an antiviral prior to your treatment.  I would recommend continuing it for at least another week.  The concern with any type of manipulation of the lips is causing a cold sore lesion to present.  In your case, it was already present so the concern is possible spread to other parts of your lips.  The best thing to do at this point is to continue the valtrex.  Good luck.Payman Kosari, MDDermatology, Laser and Vein Specialists1918 Randolph Rd, Suite 550Charlotte, NC

Margaret Weiss, MD · Answer

Generally we do not recommend lip injections be performed while there are active cold sores. It’s best to wait until the cold sores are resolved and take antiviral medications before and after to prevent a new outbreak. Now that you have been injected, though, the best thing to do is just to continue taking Valtrex and hope for the best. The main concern here is that the cold sore virus will spread and cause more sores to appear. In the future, I would recommend disclosing to your provider if you have any conditions such as cold sores so that your appointment can be rescheduled if necessary. Always be sure to see a board-certified dermatologist for any treatment.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

It is best to wait until the cold sore is completely gone before proceeding with injections.  Best, Dr. Green

Steven F. Weiner, MD · Answer

There is a risk of spreading the virus or getting a worse infection if lips are injected during a cold sore outbreak. It is best to do after it is healed and take preventative dosing before and after. In general, elective procedures should be done when you are the healthiest you can be.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I would have waited until the cold sore was completely resolved before having filler placed. Best of luck.

I just had Juvederm on my lips with a cold sore present. I was on valtrex 24 hours prior. Is this bad?

Answers (8)

Answer: Lips shouldn't be injected with active cold sore.

Answer: Lips shouldn't be injected with active cold sore.

Answer: Fillers and cold sores

Answer: Fillers and cold sores

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I just had Juvederm on my lips with a cold sore present. I was on valtrex 24 hours prior. Is this bad?

Answers (8)

Answer: Lips shouldn't be injected with active cold sore.

Answer: Lips shouldn't be injected with active cold sore.

Answer: Fillers and cold sores

Answer: Fillers and cold sores

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Juvederm

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.