Lost muscle control from lip filler: Is this normal? Will it go away?

Question

Hi, I had Rejuvederm injection 8 days ago into the fine lines in my upper lip. Now my upper lip and space beneath my nose feels stiff, numb, and unnatural. I can’t rub my lips together when putting on lip balm. When I try a bizarre joker smile forms.. It’s uncomfortable. I’m having a hard time controlling my upper lip. I feel like a stroke victim.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This may be due to swelling, but if you remain concerned, I recommend following up with your injector. You have swelling, which can be asymmetrical, and last 1-2 weeks after lip injections. If you're unhappy with your final results, you can have it reversed with hyaluronidase and try a different technique next time. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Your experience may be due to swelling or bruising. I suggest that you consult with your board certified facial plastic surgeon to review your healing progress, and provide suggestions for your to achieve your desired result.
Best wishes,

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

This may be due to swelling, which will gradually resolve. I would wait a full 2 weeks before judging the results. If it is after the two week wait, you can have the filler reversed with hyaluronidase.
I hope this helps!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and I am sorry to hear of your difficulties after filler placement.  What is likely occurring is that the normal swelling from filler injections is causing your lip to stiffen and not bend as normal.  As this swelling resolves your lips function will return to normal.   In the meantime try reducing the swelling by elevating your head at night with a couple of extra pillows behind your back.  You may want to also consider using Arnica Montana and bromelain as supplements.  Hang in there!

Monika Soni, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The discomfort you are experiencing may be due to swelling which can take up to 2 weeks to resolve. You can help reduce swelling by applying cold compresses to the lips. It is also advisable to avoid any NSAID’s before and after treatment as they tend to thin the blood and increase swelling and bruising. If your discomfort worsens or does not get better in 2 weeks please follow up with your injector. Best of Luck!

Michael H. Gold, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and we are sorry that you are having these concerns following your filler injections.  We always recommend that you have these injections performed in the offices of a board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon as we are the most qualified to perform these types of procedures.  Swelling and what you are describing can occur for up to two weeks following lip injections and depending on what was used, and in your case not sure since the name you used does not exist, swelling can be a little or a lot.  I would definitely speak with your injector and if things do not improve over the next several days, with icing and gentle massage, then return to the provider to see what needs to be done.  Good luck.

Lost muscle control from lip filler: Is this normal? Will it go away?

Answers (6)

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