Bruising After Lip Fillers: Is It Normal and How Long Does It Last?

Lip fillers are among the most popular cosmetic treatments for enhancing lip volume, correcting asymmetry, and achieving a more youthful appearance. While the procedure is relatively quick and minimally invasive, it’s not uncommon for patients to experience minor side effects. One of the most frequent concerns is bruising after the injections. Although this can cause temporary worry, bruising is generally harmless and part of the body’s normal healing process. Understanding why it occurs, what to expect, and how to manage it can help ease patient anxiety and promote a smoother recovery.

Key Takeaways:

This article will explain: 

• Why does bruising after lip fillers occur
• How it presents itself
• How to prevent it
• How long does it last

Is Bruising After Lip Fillers Normal?

Yes, bruising after lip fillers is completely normal and typically, there is nothing to worry about. It is a common side effect that can be caused by the injection process itself, whether a needle or a blunt-tipped cannula is used. During the procedure, the instrument may inadvertently nick tiny blood vessels beneath the skin, especially in areas as vascular as the lips. When these capillaries are disrupted, a small amount of blood can leak into the surrounding tissue, resulting in bruising.

Because the lips contain many delicate blood vessels and are frequently moved during speaking, eating, and facial expressions, they are more prone to bruising compared to other areas treated with dermal fillers. The good news is that this bruising is usually mild, short-lived, and manageable with simple aftercare.

What Does Bruising Look Like?

Bruising after lip fillers can vary in appearance and intensity depending on one’s skin type, vascularity, and the injection technique used. It usually presents as small patches or spots that are purple, blue, or red in colour. These marks typically develop near or around the injection sites.

Some patients notice bruising right away, while in others, it may take several hours to become visible. In most cases, the bruises are minor and confined to small, localised areas. However, depending on how sensitive the patient’s skin is or how the body reacts, the bruising can occasionally spread to nearby tissue, such as the area above or below the lips.

Those with fair or thin skin may see more prominent discolouration, while those with deeper skin tones may experience subtler, darker-toned patches. In any case, bruising is a normal response to the micro-trauma caused by the needle or cannula and is not typically a sign of anything going wrong.

How Long Does Bruising Last?

For most people, bruising after lip fillers lasts between 5 and 10 days. The discolouration generally begins to fade between day 3 and day 7. Mild bruising can even disappear in as little as 2 to 3 days, depending on the individual’s healing process and how well they follow aftercare instructions. Patients looking for natural lip filler results are particularly sensitive to bruising.

The first couple of days may show the darkest colours, especially if the bruising is more pronounced. After that, the bruise will often transition through shades of green, yellow, and light brown as the body reabsorbs the leaked blood.

If desired, patients can begin using makeup to conceal the bruised areas after 24 hours, as long as the skin is not damaged and the injection sites have healed properly. Even then, it is important to apply cosmetics gently to avoid further irritation during the early stages of healing.

What Factors Increase Bruising Risk?

While some degree of bruising is often unavoidable, several factors can increase the likelihood or severity of the potential problem:

Medications and Supplements

Blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen (NSAIDs), and anticoagulants can make bruising more likely. On top of that, certain supplements, like fish oil, may have similar effects by reducing blood clotting.

Alcohol Consumption

Drinking alcohol within 24 hours before or after the filler appointment can increase the risk of bruising due to its blood-thinning properties and its ability to dilate blood vessels.

Skin Type and History

Individuals with thin or sensitive skin, or those with a personal history of bruising easily, may be more susceptible to unwanted reactions after lip fillers. 

Injection Technique

Bruising may be more pronounced with aggressive or deep injection techniques, especially if the treatment is performed by an inexperienced practitioner. Similarly, multiple injection points increase the chances of encountering a blood vessel.

Poor Aftercare:

Engaging in strenuous physical activity too soon after treatment or failing to follow post-procedure guidelines can also contribute to increased bruising.

How to Reduce and Manage Bruising

Even though bruising cannot always be prevented fully, there are several effective strategies to minimise and manage it before and after treatment:

Pre-Care Tips:

• Avoid blood thinners: Discontinue the use of aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and similar substances (if medically appropriate) for at least 3 to 7 days before treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before stopping the use of any medication.
  
• Skip alcohol: Refrain from consuming alcohol for 24 to 48 hours after the treatment.
  
• Minimise exercise: Avoid intense workouts on the day of your filler treatment to reduce blood flow to the area.

Post-Care Tips:

• Apply cold compresses: Use a clean, soft cold pack for 10 to 15 minutes at a time during the first 24 hours. This helps reduce swelling and slows the spread of bruising.
  
• Elevate your head: Sleep with your head elevated on pillows to reduce fluid accumulation around the lips.
  
• Use arnica or bromelain: These natural remedies can help speed up bruise healing. Arnica is available as a topical gel or oral tablet, while bromelain is a pineapple enzyme supplement. Only use these with your healthcare provider’s approval.
  
• Be gentle: Avoid pressing, massaging, or manipulating the lips unless you are specifically advised to do so by your injector.

When to Contact a Provider

Although bruising is usually harmless, certain reactions may require medical attention. Therefore, it is important for patients to contact their injector or healthcare provider in case of:

• Severe or increasing pain: Pain that intensifies instead of improving may suggest an issue that is more than just simple bruising.
  
• Blanching or skin discolouration: Pale, white, or dusky areas around the injection site may be signs of vascular compromise, which means that blood flow is restricted.
  
• Worsening swelling or discolouration: If the area becomes more swollen or discoloured after several days, or the patient develops a hard lump or skin breakdown, it is important to seek professional help immediately.

Conclusion

Bruising after lip fillers is a common and expected side effect, especially given the vascular nature of the lips and the delicate techniques involved. It typically resolves within a week and can be managed with proper pre- and post-care strategies. Patients who are well-informed about what to expect are more likely to feel comfortable, recover smoothly, and achieve the results they desire. Registered aestheticians who wish to provide their patients with the best and most reliable products can buy dermal fillers online at the Best Buy Fillers e-commerce store.

References: 

Hamman MS, Goldman MP. Minimizing Bruising Following Fillers and Other Cosmetic Injectables. The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology. 2013;6(8):16. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3760599/ 

Galadari H, Mariwalla K, Delobel P, Sanchez-Vizcaino Mengual E. Pain and Bruising Levels After Lip Augmentation: A Comparison of Anterograde and Retrograde Techniques Using an Automated Motorized Injection Device. A Blinded, Prospective, Randomized, Parallel Within-Subject Trial. Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al]. 2020;46(3):395-401. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31453902/

Hubmed. Lip Filler Bruising: Causes, Stages, and Fast Treatments. Hubmeded.com. Published May 9, 2025. Accessed June 25, 2025. https://www.hubmeded.com/blog/lip-filler-bruising-causes-stages-treatments