The Complete Aesthetic Aftercare & Recovery Guide

At London Lip Clinic, we believe your results are shaped not only by expert technique — but by proper aftercare.

Whether you’ve had lip fillers, Botox, full face rejuvenation, chemical peels, microneedling, polynucleotides, exosomes, skin boosters or laser treatments, understanding what is normal during recovery is essential.

This guide explains:

• What to expect after aesthetic treatments

• What is considered normal healing

• Uncommon recovery issues

• When to seek medical advice

• Treatment-specific aftercare guidance

If you ever feel unsure, we encourage you to contact us directly. Your safety always comes first.

General Aesthetic Aftercare – What Is Normal?

Most non-surgical aesthetic treatments share common temporary side effects.

Common & Expected Reactions

• Mild swelling

• Redness

• Tenderness

• Bruising

• Temporary asymmetry (especially with fillers)

• Small injection marks

These typically resolve within 2–14 days, depending on the treatment.

Swelling often peaks at:

• 24–48 hours for fillers

• Same day for Botox

• 24–72 hours for microneedling or regenerative treatments

When Is It NOT Normal?

While complications are rare when treatments are performed by experienced medical practitioners, you should seek urgent advice if you experience:

• Severe or worsening pain

• Skin turning pale, dusky or mottled

• Increasing redness spreading beyond treatment area

• Fever or feeling unwell

• Visual disturbances

• Persistent swelling beyond 2 weeks

• Firm, painful lumps

If in doubt — contact your practitioner immediately.

Treatment-Specific Aftercare Guidance

Below you’ll find detailed recovery information for each treatment offered at London Lip Clinic.

Lip Filler Aftercare (Hyaluronic Acid Fillers)

Lip fillers commonly cause:

• Swelling for 2–5 days

• Temporary unevenness

• Mild firmness

• Occasional bruising

Specific Guidance:

• Avoid intense exercise for 24 hours

• Avoid excessive heat (sauna/steam) for 48 hours

• Do not massage unless advised

• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours

What’s Normal:

Small lumps are often swelling or product settling and usually soften within 2 weeks.

When to Seek Help:

Severe pain, blanching (white patches), or increasing swelling after day 3.

Cheek, Jawline & Chin Filler Aftercare

These areas may feel:

• Firm initially

• Tender when chewing or touching

• Slightly tight

Swelling may last 5–10 days.

Sleeping on your back for the first few nights is advisable.

Botox / Anti-Wrinkle Injections Aftercare

Botox recovery is typically minimal.

Specific Guidance:

• Remain upright for 4 hours

• Avoid vigorous exercise for 24 hours

• Avoid rubbing the treated area

• No facials for 48 hours

What’s Normal:

• Mild headache

• Small bumps at injection points (resolve in 30 minutes)

• Gradual onset of effect over 3–14 days

When to Seek Advice:

• Eyelid drooping

• Difficulty swallowing (rare)

Full Face Rejuvenation Aftercare

When multiple treatments are combined (e.g., filler + Botox + skin boosters), swelling may be more noticeable.

You may experience:

• General facial puffiness

• Temporary asymmetry

• Bruising in multiple areas

Recovery is typically 7–14 days for full refinement.

Microneedling Aftercare

Microneedling causes controlled micro-injury to stimulate collagen.

What’s Normal:

• Redness for 24–72 hours

• Mild skin flaking

• Tightness

• Temporary breakouts

Specific Guidance:

• No makeup for 24 hours

• Avoid active skincare (retinol, acids) for 3–5 days

• Avoid sun exposure

• Use gentle cleanser + SPF

Polynucleotide Aftercare

Polynucleotides stimulate regeneration and hydration.

You may notice:

• Small injection bumps

• Mild swelling

• Tenderness

Bumps typically settle within 24–72 hours.

Avoid intense exercise and heat exposure for 24 hours.

Exosome Therapy Aftercare

Often combined with microneedling.

Recovery mirrors microneedling:

• Redness

• Tightness

• Mild peeling

Avoid active skincare for 3–5 days.

Skin Boosters Aftercare

Hydrating injectables may cause:

• Small visible papules

• Mild swelling

• Bruising

Bumps usually resolve within 24–72 hours.

Laser Treatments 

Laser treatments vary depending on intensity.

What’s Normal:

• Redness

• Warm sensation

• Mild swelling

• Skin darkening before flaking

Specific Guidance:

• Strict SPF use

• Avoid sun exposure

• No active skincare for 5–7 days

• Gentle moisturiser only

Recovery time ranges from:

• 2–3 days (lighter treatments)

• Up to 7 days (more intensive resurfacing)

Managing Bruising & Swelling

To minimise recovery time:

• Avoid alcohol before and after treatment

• Avoid blood-thinning supplements (if medically appropriate)

• Use cold compress gently

• Arnica may help (evidence varies)

• Sleep slightly elevated

Bruising can take up to 14 days to fully resolve.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long until I see final results?

• Botox: 2 weeks

• Fillers: 2 weeks

• Microneedling: collagen builds over 6–12 weeks

• Polynucleotides: progressive improvement over weeks

Can I exercise after treatment?

Generally avoid intense exercise for 24 hours.

Can I fly after fillers?

Short-haul flights are usually safe after 24 hours. If swelling is significant, wait 48 hours.

When to Contact London Lip Clinic

Contact us immediately if you experience:

• Increasing severe pain

• Skin colour changes

• Visual disturbance

• Fever

• Spreading redness

Rupesh will provide direct aftercare support for all our patients.

Ethical, Safe & Evidence-Based Care

At London Lip Clinic, Harley Street, all treatments are:

• Evidence-based

• Performed in medical premises.

• Delivered with full consent

• Supported by clear aftercare guidance

Your recovery is as important as your treatment.

If you are considering aesthetic treatment in London and would like medically-led advice, we invite you to book a consultation.