Are lumps after lip fillers normal? (Photo)

Question

I got 0.5 ml HA lip fillers yesterday, most of which was in my upper lip. A lump has formed on both sides of the lip, one more proeminent than the other. The lumps are on the inside and not very visible but uncomfortable when moving the lips. The other problem is I only feel the HA in those parts of the lips, and none where the cupid's bow is. Could it be that all the HA injected formed those lumps? I'm scared once the swelling goes down I will be left with two huge bumps on both sides of the lip.

Luis M. Rios Jr., MD · Answer

Swelling and lumps after HA injections can occur. If the lumps are small they will subside over time. Most patients have mild discomfort after injections and the pain also subsides with time.  The amount of filler you got is appropriate and your results look good. Use some ice packs for the swelling and pain. Schedule a follow up visit in a few weeks to review the results and see if you need a touch up. Overall, I think your results look good.
Good Luck.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There can be some swelling and/or lumps after lip injections which can last 1-2 weeks. You can apply firm pressure between two fingers on the lips for a few days, for 5 mins a time, in order to help decrease swelling and even out the lumps. If you're unhappy with your final results you can have it reversed with hyaluronidase and try a different technique next time. Best, Dr. Emer

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question axxs.
I understand your concern. Fillers are used to restore lost volume in and
enhance the appearance of the face. For my patients I recommend Vollure and Volbella in the lips. I recommend Vollure to my patients if the desired result is an increase in volume and Volbella for more subtle enhancement. Lumps and bumps are common with such hyaluronic acid fillers, especially in the lips. These typically subside by 2 weeks. At that point final results are seen and either more product can be added if further enhancement is desired or the product can be dissolved if the desired results are not achieved. I used to recommend gently massage in this area until I had a patient who massaged too vigorously that the product moved to the inside of the lips and it required dissolving. Now I recommend that my patients not massage and only apply cold compresses. Please consult with a doctor for specific
recommendations.  Good luck!

Faiyaaz Kalimullah, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for your question and for submitting your photos.  It's not uncommon to experience swelling and bruising for up to two weeks after any filler injections.  Moreover, it's not uncommon for HA fillers to feel a little hard or lumpy immediately after injection - typically, over the course of several weeks, the product absorbs water and softens, gradually integrating into your skin.
For now, I would recommend gently applying ice or cool compresses to the area to help the swelling resolve sooner.  Please follow-up with your injector if you have any concerns.  I hope this helps!

Kate Kleydman, DO · Answer

Having lumps is not uncommon. I would recommend you massage the area. Contact your doctor for a follow up in 10 days. Your doctor can then decide if any corrections are needed.

Alain Michon, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and picture. Swelling after dermal filler injections is expected and normal. It may take up to two weeks for the swelling to go away. Lumps after lips injections usually gets better over time. After a few days, gentle massage between the thumb and index may help to soften the lumps. I recommend following with your injector at two weeks after the initial injection. All the best, Dr. Michon

Are lumps after lip fillers normal? (Photo)

Answers (6)