Should I massage my filler lumps?

Author: Dr. Norberto Hirthe  |  Last update: Thursday, September 18, 2025

If large bumps are present, wait 2-3 days for the worst of the swelling to resolve before massaging. Starting too soon may worsen lumps. For smaller, subtler lumps, begin gently massaging the lips using light pressure starting 12 hours post-injection.

Will massaging fillers move it?

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.

How do you get rid of filler lumps?

But here is the good news: a small amount of hyaluronidase can dissolve the filler clump. Hyaluronidase works by disrupting the bond between filler products and cells in the skin tissue. Using this enzyme, an injector can dissolve all of your fillers in a matter of hours if you are unhappy with the look.

Will massaging filler break it down?

Massaging the treated areas can disrupt the dermal filler and cause the hyaluronic acid solution to move out of place. This can lead to an uneven or lumpy appearance.

What happens if you don't massage lips after fillers?

“Massaging the lips post procedure is key for smoothing out any filler lumps. Filler lumps can be a cause of concern for patients, so it's important ensure you massage after injecting to smooth the filler and mould it into place.

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

Should you massage lumps after fillers?

Massaging your cheeks to remove lumps won't cause serious complications or significantly ruin your appearance after the dermal filler procedure. However, doing it excessively could change the shape or move the HA filler out of place, resulting in unwanted results.

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 long after filler should you massage?

In the Days & Weeks After Treatment. Lip filler can take up to two weeks to settle completely. Some injectors recommend their patients start to massage their lips to remove any lingering bumps a week, five days, or sometimes even 24 hours after treatment.

Can filler move if you touch it?

Although extremely rare, dermal fillers are able to migrate within the skin if consistent and adequate pressure is applied to them.

Do filler lumps dissolve?

Lumps of lip filler are not permanent. As the body breaks down dermal filler over time, the lumps will eventually go away. If you don't want to wait, then lip filler lumps can be treated by a puncture technique, or by dissolving, both of which should only be done by an experienced professional.

How to get rid of injection lumps?

Cold compresses and OTC pain medications can help relieve pain, redness, and swelling. But if your symptoms don't go away or get worse after this time period, be sure to contact a healthcare professional.

How long do filler injection bumps last?

It's actually quite uncommon for patients to experience any irritation or lumps following their procedure, but if you do, then you should expect them to dissipate after a few days. At the most, it may take 2-3 weeks to alleviate them entirely with limited downtime.

Why does my fillers feel hard?

Swelling during the first week or two after injections is the most common cause of temporary hardening. As discussed, some post-treatment puffiness and firmness is totally normal and will resolve as you heal. Be patient and baby your skin during this time.

Does smiling make filler migrate?

Fillers around the mouth and eyes are most likely to migrate, more so than dermal fillers in the cheeks or the jawline. Dermal filler for smile lines and dermal filler for under eyes are most likely to migrate because they are in areas of your face that move the most as you change facial expressions and talk.

How long is filler moldable?

Fillers remain moldable for 1-2 weeks, and pressure can deform your filler. The most common culprits? The face cradle on massage tables, tight ski goggles and swim goggles. Normal activities like washing your face or putting on make-up do not have enough force to mold your filler.

Can you massage fillers back into place?

In some cases, gentle massaging and time may help redistribute the migrated lip filler. However, professional assistance using hyaluronidase injections, which dissolve hyaluronic acid-based fillers, is recommended for a more precise and effective correction.

What is forbidden after fillers?

About 24 hours post-treatment, avoid saunas and hot showers. Heat can cause blood vessels to expand, leading to swelling, bruising, and faster breakdown of the hyaluronic acid in the fillers, compromising their longevity and efficacy. This is especially true for intense heat.

What if I am unhappy with my filler results?

If you're less than thrilled with your filler results—at any time, for whatever reason—talk with your injector. They should be “guiding you through the injectables process, not only during the procedure but afterward too,” says London-based plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Ashwin Soni.

Can you massage fillers lumps?

Just use gentle pressure back and forth or in a circular motion. If the lump is in an area like your cheek, you can place one finger inside your mouth and one outside and squeeze the lump between your fingers. The general rule is to massage five minutes at a time, five times a day, for the first five days.

Do fillers nodules go away?

Lumps after dermal filler is a common issue and can be normal and temporary, or it may need to be reviewed. It is very common to have temporary lumpiness in the skin in the first few weeks after dermal filler. What usually happens is that it will integrate into the skin by about week 4.

Why does my fillers feel lumpy?

Within the first two weeks after your injections, lumps and bumps are normal because the cheek filler is settling.

When should I start massaging my fillers?

Wait 12-24 hours after the injections before massaging. This gives the filler time to settle before manipulating it. Ideally start massaging 24 hours post-procedure once initial swelling has subsided. Massaging too early may worsen swelling.

What is not normal after fillers?

Late complications are defined as those appearing after about 2-6 weeks. They comprise late allergic reactions, chronic inflammation and infection, granulomas, filler migration, loss of function, telangiectasia, and hypertrophic scars. A detailed history may disclose a potential allergy.

Will massage break down filler?

Some fillers, such as Sculptra, are designed to stimulate collagen production in the skin, which can lead to long-lasting results. These fillers may be more susceptible to breakdown if they are massaged or manipulated too much after the treatment.

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