Swelling after contour injections: how long does it last and when should you call?

Swelling after contour injections is a reaction that occurs as the solution spreads at the injection site. It usually subsides within a few days, and in many cases bruising and a foreign-body sensation also ease within 1 to 2 weeks. Whether the swelling is decreasing day by day, or instead growing along with itching and warmth, is the criterion for deciding whether to wait or contact us.

Why does swelling occur after contour injections?

Contour injections deliver a solution that helps reduce fat in divided doses into fatty areas such as under the chin or the cheeks. At first the area looks puffy by the amount of solution injected between tissues, and while fat breakdown is in progress, a mild inflammatory reaction in the surrounding tissue can cause continued swelling and soreness.

In lower areas such as under the chin and a double chin, swelling may collect downward and look more prominent. The duration also varies by ingredient; with deoxycholic acid (DCA) injections, because the ingredient destroys fat cells, swelling may last more than a week.

Care to reduce swelling after contour injections

At our Suwon clinic, after Facefit (GPC) injections, we advise gently massaging the treated area for about 3 minutes, 3 times a day, for at least 3 days so the solution spreads evenly.

For 3 to 7 days after treatment, avoid heavy drinking, smoking, saunas and jjimjilbang, hot baths, and vigorous exercise, and drink plenty of water. You can wash your face and wear makeup right away, but don't rub the injection sites hard. Since it is hard to judge the results while swollen, look for changes after about 2 to 3 weeks.

What should I do if the swelling from contour injections increases?

In rare cases, an allergic reaction to the ingredient may cause swelling that doesn't go down but keeps rising, or that continues with itching and warmth. Such reactions often subside with treatment after an examination, so don't wait; please contact the clinic. An examination is also needed if you feel a hard, painful lump or if the skin color changes.

If you have had allergies to medications or specific ingredients, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, please let us know before treatment.

Contour injections in Suwon: how many sessions before you see a difference?

See the Contour Injection Treatment Guide

FAQ

Q. Is it okay if my face looks bigger the day after contour injections?

A. For the first few days, the area may look puffier because of the solution injected between tissues. It usually goes down within a few days, so watch whether it decreases each day, and if it keeps getting bigger or comes with warmth, please contact the clinic.

Q. Will massaging harder make contour injection swelling go down faster?

A. Pressing hard can increase bruising and pain, so gently stroking with your fingertips is best. For at least 3 days after treatment, massage three times a day for about 3 minutes each so the solution spreads evenly, avoiding spots that hurt when pressed.

Q. Can I get the next contour injection session while swelling remains?

A. Contour injections are usually given 3 or more times at 1 to 2 week intervals, and we give the next injection after checking that most of the previous swelling and bruising has subsided. If swelling lingers, we lengthen the interval or adjust the injection sites and amount.