Minimize swelling, reduce bruising, and optimize your results

Dermal + Lip filler recovery guide

Clinically proven protocols to accelerate healing after Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA Collection, Belotero, Radiesse, Sculptra, and other dermal filler treatments.

Your recovery protocol directly influences both the immediate appearance and longevity of your filler results.

Optimize Results Through Science-Backed Aftercare

What to expect after Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA Collection, Belotero, Radiesse, Sculptra, and other filler treatments.

Filler Recovery Timeline

Pre-Procedure Preparation

Optimize tissue integrity regardless of your chosen filler, whether Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA Collection, Belotero, Radiesse, or Sculptra. Discontinue blood-thinning supplements including fish oil, vitamin E, and NSAIDs unless medically necessary. Avoid alcohol for 48 hours before treatment. Begin hydrating protocols and consider arnica supplementation per your injector's guidance to minimize bruising potential.

Immediate Post-Treatment (0-24 hours)

Focus on inflammation control and mechanical stability. All dermal fillers, from hyaluronic acid formulations like Juvéderm Voluma, Restylane Lyft, and RHA 4 to biostimulatory options like Sculptra and Radiesse, trigger inflammatory cascades at injection sites. Research demonstrates that the TRPV1 receptor, your skin's primary cellular trigger for inflammation, becomes hyperactivated following injection trauma. Immediate modulation prevents excessive swelling that can distort placement and compromise aesthetic outcomes. We recommend The Solution and The Catalyst.

Early Recovery (Days 2-7)

Support tissue integration while managing residual swelling and bruising. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvéderm, Restylane, Belotero, and the RHA Collection require careful hydration balance - adequate moisture supports optimal gel distribution without encouraging excessive swelling. Calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) and poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) need consistent anti-inflammatory support as the body's collagen response initiates.

Active Healing (Weeks 2-4)

Filler integration accelerates as inflammation subsides. For hyaluronic acid products, this represents the period when swelling resolves and final contours emerge. For biostimulatory fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse, collagen synthesis begins in earnest. Support the skin barrier with TRPV1 antagonism during tissue remodeling.

Long term, continue supporting optimal tissue response, particularly crucial for biostimulatory fillers that work over months. Gradual reintroduction of active ingredients under dermatologist guidance protects your investment while maintaining skin quality. For Sculptra treatments requiring multiple sessions, this protocol between appointments optimizes cumulative results.

Frequently asked questions

When should I start using skincare after my filler treatment?

Timing depends on your specific filler and injection areas. For most hyaluronic acid treatments, Juvéderm, Restylane, Belotero, and the RHA Collection, you may begin The Solution and The Catalyst within 24 hours, applying gently without massage or pressure. For biostimulatory fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse, wait 48 hours before applying topical products to allow initial tissue response to stabilize. For periorbital treatments, begin The Eye Cure after 24 hours using gentle dabbing motions. Always follow your injector's specific guidance, as protocols may vary based on treatment areas, filler volume, and individual factors.

Can I use Dr Rossi products if I have a history of filler complications?

Yes. Our formulations specifically address the inflammatory response. The TRPV1-targeting approach reduces redness and supports the skin barrier. However, these products do not treat vascular occlusion, granulomas, or other serious complications requiring medical intervention. If you've experienced prior filler issues, review the complete ingredient list with your injector before use. For active complications, seek immediate medical evaluation rather than relying on topical management alone.

Will these products help reduce swelling after lip filler?

Lip swelling following Juvéderm Volbella, Juvéderm Ultra XC, Restylane Kysse, or other lip fillers represents the most common patient concern. The lips contain high concentrations of TRPV1 receptors, making them particularly responsive to targeted antagonism. Clinical data demonstrates measurable reduction in inflammatory markers when TRPV1 modulation begins within the first 48 hours. Swelling remains normal and expected, particularly in the first 2-3 days but discuss with your injector the anticipated timeline. Apply gently without rubbing or massaging to avoid disrupting filler placement.

Can I wear makeup after my filler treatment?

After most dermal filler treatments, Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA Collection, Belotero, Radiesse, or Sculptra, you may apply makeup 24 hours post-injection once initial swelling has stabilized. Choose mineral-based, non-comedogenic formulations without fragrance or irritating preservatives. Apply The Solution and The Catalyst first, allowing 15-20 minutes for complete absorption before makeup application. Use gentle patting motions rather than rubbing, particularly over injection sites. For lip filler, wait 48 hours before lipstick application and choose hydrating, non-irritating formulations. Avoid makeup entirely if you have visible injection marks, bruising, or compromised skin. Covering these with makeup increases infection risk.

When will I see my final filler results?

Results timeline varies significantly by filler type. Hyaluronic acid products like Juvéderm Voluma, Restylane Lyft, RHA 4, and Belotero Balance show immediate volume correction, but final results emerge after swelling resolves - typically 2 weeks for most areas, potentially 3-4 weeks for lips and under-eyes with products like Restylane Silk or Restylane-L. Calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse) provides immediate volume plus gradual improvement over 2-3 months as collagen forms. Poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra) works gradually over 4-6 months through collagen stimulation, requiring multiple treatment sessions. The TRPV1-targeting protocol supports optimal barrier function across all filler types, helping you achieve final results that reflect ideal placement rather than being obscured by prolonged inflammation.

How long does bruising last after filler injections?

Bruising duration following Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA fillers, Belotero, Radiesse, or Sculptra varies by injection site, technique, and individual factors. Most bruising resolves within 7-14 days, though under-eye treatments and lip injections may take slightly longer. The Solution and The Catalyst modulate TRPV1 induced inflammation at the cellular level. Additionally, arnica montana (oral and topical) and bromelain supplementation may accelerate bruising clearance. Bruising that persists beyond 3 weeks or progressively worsens warrants evaluation by your injector to exclude vascular compromise or other complications.

Can I get filler dissolved if I don't like my results?

Hyaluronic acid fillers (Juvéderm, Restylane, Belotero, and the RHA Collection) can be dissolved using hyaluronidase enzyme if results prove unsatisfactory or complications develop. However, final assessment should occur only after swelling completely resolves, typically 2-4 weeks post-treatment. What appears as "too much filler" immediately post-injection often represents temporary swelling rather than excess product volume. Continue your recovery protocol with The Catalyst through this assessment period before considering dissolution. Radiesse and Sculptra cannot be dissolved and require time for natural metabolism, making prevention of complications through proper recovery protocols particularly crucial for these biostimulatory fillers.

Should I avoid certain facial movements after filler?

Movement restrictions depend on filler type and treatment areas. For hyaluronic acid products in dynamic areas, RHA 2, RHA 3, and RHA 4 were specifically designed for facial mobility, though excessive animation in the first 48 hours may affect distribution. Avoid exaggerated expressions following Juvéderm or Restylane placement in nasolabial folds, marionette lines, or other areas where you received correction. For lip filler with Juvéderm Volbella, Restylane Kysse, or similar products, minimize pursing, drinking through straws, and aggressive talking or eating for 24-48 hours. Biostimulatory fillers like Sculptra and Radiesse require 24-48 hours of gentle facial movement to promote even distribution. Your injector will provide specific guidance based on your treatment plan.

Can I use retinoids or acids after filler treatments?

Post-filler skin requires temporary modification of active ingredient use. Discontinue retinoids and strong exfoliating acids for 48-72 hours before any filler treatment, Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA fillers, Belotero, Radiesse, or Sculptra. Resume these actives 1-2 weeks post-treatment once injection sites have completely healed and any bruising or swelling has resolved. Premature reintroduction may irritate healing tissue and potentially interfere with optimal filler integration, particularly for biostimulatory products like Sculptra where collagen synthesis requires controlled inflammation. The Solution's gentle lactic acid provides mild exfoliation during recovery without compromising healing, while The Catalyst supports barrier function. Always reintroduce actives gradually under professional guidance.

What makes the TRPV1-targeting approach ideal for filler recovery?

Traditional anti-inflammatory approaches like corticosteroids broadly suppress immune responses, potentially interfering with the organized tissue integration required for optimal filler results. The sea anemone biomimetic peptide in our formulations specifically antagonizes TRPV1 receptors, the precise cellular trigger for irritatin inflammation, without suppressing beneficial healing processes. This targeted modulation reduces erythema, and discomfort following dermal filler treatment while supporting the collagen synthesis crucial for biostimulatory products like Sculptra and Radiesse. Published research in peer-reviewed dermatology journals demonstrates this approach reduces inflammatory signs.
I'm planning a series of Sculptra treatments.

How should I care for my skin between sessions?

Sculptra's poly-L-lactic acid mechanism requires multiple treatment sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart, with results developing gradually over months through collagen stimulation. Continue your recovery protocol with The Solution and The Catalyst between sessions to support optimal collagen synthesis while managing any residual inflammatory responses. Sustained TRPV1 antagonism during the collagen remodeling phase significantly improves final outcomes by promoting organized rather than fibrotic tissue formation. This approach ensures your skin enters each subsequent session in ideal condition, potentially enhancing cumulative volume correction. Discontinue products only 48 hours before your next Sculptra treatment per your injector's protocol.

Are these products only for post-filler recovery, or can I use them long-term?

Dr Rossi formulations address the fundamental inflammatory pathways that contribute not only to post-procedure recovery but also to ongoing skin sensitivity, redness, and premature aging. While particularly beneficial during the critical healing window after Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA fillers, Belotero, Radiesse, or Sculptra treatments, these products provide value for daily use. The TRPV1-targeting approach manages inflammatory responses to environmental stressors, sun exposure, pollution, temperature fluctuations, that accelerate filler degradation and compromise skin quality. Clinical trials evaluated continuous use, demonstrating excellent safety profiles. Many patients find that ongoing use between filler maintenance appointments helps prolong results and maintain optimal skin condition.

What if I experience lumps or bumps after my filler treatment?

Palpable irregularities following filler placement require assessment by your treating injector to determine appropriate management. For hyaluronic acid products like Juvéderm, Restylane, Belotero, RHA Collection, some firmness in the first week represents normal product settling and residual swelling. Continue your recovery protocol with The Solution and The Catalyst, as inflammation control supports the skin barrier. However, lumps persisting beyond 2 weeks, particularly if accompanied by redness, tenderness, or skin changes, require professional evaluation. For Sculptra, small papules can develop months post-treatment; report these promptly. Seek medical management of true complications like granulomas or vascular compromise.

Can I use ice or cold compresses after filler injections?

Cold therapy provides benefits for post-filler swelling management when applied correctly. During the first 24-48 hours after treatment with Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA fillers, Belotero, Radiesse, or Sculptra, gentle cooling reduces edema and provides comfort. Use clean, soft cloths dampened with cool (not ice-cold) water, applied for 10-15 minutes every 2-3 hours. Avoid direct ice application; extreme cold may damage tissue and trigger inflammatory responses. Never apply pressure during cooling, particularly important for tear trough filler with Restylane-L or Belotero Balance, where compression could cause migration. Apply cold compresses before The Solution and The Catalyst, not over them. Discontinue if you experience increased pain or blanching that persists beyond compress removal.

How soon can I get additional filler or other treatments?

Timing for subsequent procedures depends on complete healing from your initial treatment. For additional hyaluronic acid filler in different areas, adding Juvéderm Volbella for lips after Restylane Lyft for cheeks, for example, wait minimum 2 weeks to allow initial swelling to resolve and assess results accurately. For touch-ups in the same areas, wait 4-6 weeks with most hyaluronic acid products to evaluate final correction. Sculptra treatments follow a specific protocol of 4-6 weeks between sessions as designed by the manufacturer. For combining filler with other treatments, wait 2 weeks post-injection before laser treatments, chemical peels, or microneedling to avoid compromising filler integration. Neurotoxin treatments like Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin can typically be performed the same day as filler in different areas, though your injector may prefer staging for optimal assessment.

Will these products help if I develop delayed swelling?

Delayed inflammatory responses can occur weeks or months after filler placement, most commonly with hyaluronic acid products like Juvéderm or Restylane, though also reported with Radiesse and rarely with Sculptra. These responses often involve TRPV1-mediated inflammatory pathways that respond to targeted antagonism. If you develop unexpected swelling, redness, or tenderness in previously treated areas, contact your injector for evaluation. These products may help manage inflammatory symptoms, but delayed reactions require professional assessment to exclude infection, hypersensitivity, or other complications needing specific medical intervention beyond topical management.

Can I drink alcohol during my filler recovery?

Alcohol consumption during the recovery period following any dermal filler treatment, Juvéderm, Restylane, RHA Collection, Belotero, Radiesse, or Sculptra, significantly prolongs swelling and increases bruising through vasodilation and blood-thinning effects. Avoid alcohol for minimum 48-72 hours post-treatment, ideally extending to one week for optimal recovery, particularly after lip filler or tear trough treatments where prolonged swelling proves most problematic. Alcohol also interferes with healing processes and may reduce the efficacy of the TRPV1-targeting protocol by triggering additional inflammatory pathways. Once you resume alcohol consumption, notice whether specific beverages trigger facial flushing or warmth, these responses activate TRPV1 receptors and may temporarily increase inflammation in treated areas.