Should I massage my cheeks after filler?

Author: Deion Breitenberg  |  Last update: Monday, December 29, 2025

First, you should wait for 7 to 14 days before massaging your cheeks. It's possible that the lumps may already disappear within that period and you won't need to massage the cheeks. Additionally, doing it too early, such as the day after the procedure, may cause cheek filler migration and affect your treatment results.

Should you massage lumps after cheek fillers?

Within the first two weeks after your injections, lumps and bumps are normal because the cheek filler is settling. If they are particularly pronounced, your injector may recommend massaging the filler. Secondly, if it is after two weeks, your injector will likely still recommend massage first.

What are the don'ts after cheek fillers?

Things you shouldn't do after fillers
  • Don't sleep on your face. You mustn't sleep on your face for the first day or so after getting dermal fillers. ...
  • Don't apply makeup. You want to ensure you allow your skin to heal after receiving dermal fillers. ...
  • Don't exercise right away. ...
  • Avoid hot temperatures.

How soon after fillers should I massage?

Answer: Facial Massage after Fillers Yes, massages can move the filler initially. It is generally recommended to wait at least 2 weeks before having a massage, manipulating the areas that have had filler added (try not to touch, if possible!), or having any additional treatments to the area immediately after.

Why no massage after fillers?

Getting a facial massage after fillers might seem like the perfect complement to refreshing your features, but you should avoid rubbing or pressing on the treatment area for about two weeks after the procedure. Facial massages can increase bruising and cause fillers to migrate outside of their precise placements.

How hard should I massage after filler? My top massage tip

Can cheek fillers go wrong?

Cheek filler is a low-risk procedure, but complications may include: Bleeding. Bruising. Bumps that look like acne.

What is forbidden after fillers?

Dermal filler aftercare: Ensuring a smooth recovery

Applying cold compresses intermittently for the first 24 hours can reduce swelling and discomfort. Additionally, avoid excessive heat, such as saunas, hot showers, or direct sunlight, as it may exacerbate swelling and bruising.

How long do cheek fillers take to settle?

Its normal for cheek filler to take up to 2 weeks to fully settle. During this time, any initial swelling or bruising should resolve, leaving you with a more natural and refreshed appearance.

What is the aftercare for cheek fillers?

Protect your face from sunlight exposure, even incidental exposure through car windows. Use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen. The sun can worsen swelling and even impact filler breakdown. Stop consuming alcohol for 24-48 hours after your cheek filler appointment as alcohol can thin the blood and increase swelling risk.

Does massaging filler make it go away faster?

While there isn't a magic home remedy to instantly dissolve filler, a few practices can potentially speed up the process by encouraging circulation and boosting your body's metabolic rate: Massaging the Area: Gentle, consistent massage in the area where the filler was injected may help to break it down.

How do you sleep after cheek fillers?

While sleeping on your back, elevate your head by propping 2 to 3 pillows on your head to help reduce swelling of your face, a common side effect after getting cosmetic fillers. You may also opt to use neck pillows that may be wrapped around your neck to help keep your head (and your face fillers) intact.

Is it normal for cheek fillers to feel hard?

It's completely normal for cheek fillers to feel firm, swollen, and slightly lumpy for the first few weeks after injections as your skin heals. But if the hardness persists past 4 weeks or is accompanied by pain, redness, or visible bumps, contact your doctor to ensure your fillers are healing properly.

Can cheek fillers move after a week?

Cheek filler migration may intentionally or accidentally occur. This usually happens a few days after the treatment session as the dermal fillers go through the process of bonding with the skin tissues in the face.

How long does it take for cheek fillers to look natural?

On average, full results from dermal fillers take a couple of weeks. However, you may see them more quickly as your skin may metabolize the injection faster. Most people experience the full effects of their dermal filler injections after two weeks.

Do cheek fillers look bigger at first?

Cheek fillers may look bigger at first due to the immediate swelling and inflammation from the injections. However, this is temporary and will subside over the course of one to two weeks, revealing the desired results.

What not to eat after fillers?

What Not to Eat After Fillers
  • Spicy foods, as they can cause inflammation and discomfort.
  • Salty foods, which can lead to dehydration and increased swelling.
  • Hot foods and beverages, which may aggravate sensitivity.
  • Acidic foods, such as citrus fruits and vinegar-based dressings, that can cause stinging or irritation.

What are the red flags after fillers?

Signs to look for include pain at the injection site and discolouration of skin (pale or deep red) for up to a few hours after filler injection.

How long do cheeks hurt after fillers?

While tenderness, swelling, and bruising are common and should resolve within a week, the dermal fillers themselves can take up to two weeks to fully settle and integrate into the tissue.

Will touching fillers move it?

Avoiding Physical Disturbance to Facial Fillers

Resist the urge to touch, poke, or massage the treated area after your nose filler treatment or any other type of filler. Applying pressure or disturbing the treated area can potentially displace the filler, leading to suboptimal results.

Why does my smile look weird after cheek fillers?

“Overfilling the deep compartments or accidentally injecting the superficial compartments, can both affect the contraction of the musculature of the SMAS. This can alter the appearance of the smile around the eyes or mouth”, Dr Linday warns.

Does cheek filler lift jowls?

When fillers are injected into the cheeks, they add volume and support to the mid-face, which can help lift the skin and reduce the appearance of jowls. However, while cheek fillers can improve the appearance of jowls, they may not completely eliminate them.

Do cheek fillers look better after a few days?

Expect that your facial features may look plump for a few days. But as your skin adjusts to the filler, your cheeks may become slightly smaller and you'll see the final outcome in no time. Dermal fillers take no more than one hour to administer.

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