I got Juvederm XC injected into my upper lip ten days ago. How long until the filler starts to breakdown and the lump subside?

Patients can experience swelling and lumps for up to two weeks after filler injections. I recommend you wait a full two weeks before you schedule a follow-up with your injector. In the meantime, you can apply some light massage to the area or even some ice to address the swelling. If the swelling has not fully subsided within two weeks, hyaluronidase can dissolve a bit of the filler to create a more symmetrical look. Make sure you are working with a board-certified dermatologist who is also an expert injector to ensure your procedure is safe and as effective as possible. 

Swelling can last for up to 14 days in some patients (infrequently). The filler is at its best from 4 weeks post treatment day. If you have obvious lumps and don’t like the result, you can get the product dissolved, however this can also dissolve the naturally occurring hyaluronic acid in some patients.  Some patients get concerned after reading Dr Google and do not let the filler settle. Even more unwise is attending a different clinic to have it dissolved as a panic measure.  Choose experience first and follow their aftercare.
Warm Regards,

Dr Glenn Murray, Absolute Cosmetic Medicine

We typically ask our patients to wait at least 2 weeks before coming into the office for any correction of filler as swelling can be normal for that period of time.  At that point, you have the option to dissolve the area you are not happy with or you can add a little more for balance.  It is rare that we dissolve filler as it usually corrects itself.  Until that time, you can always massage the bump and always ice for the first 24 hours at least.  Hope this helps!

Swelling is common after lip injections and can take up to two weeks to resolve.  You can try to gently massage the lump that you are noticing to help smooth it out.  If after two weeks you still have concerns, return to your injector for an evaluation.  You can determine together if dissolving the product is best.

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  For most patients, swelling in the lips can persist for 10-14 days after injection, while softening can take up to 4-6 weeks.  If the lump remains prominent at 2 weeks, considering having a small amount dissolved.  Hope this helps.