Under-eye filler treatments can offer dramatic, rejuvenating results. By softening hollows, smoothing fine lines, and reducing shadows, they help restore a refreshed and well-rested appearance. But as with any aesthetic treatment, it’s possible to experience some side effects — and swelling is one of the most common.
If your under-eye area appears swollen after a filler appointment, don’t panic. In many cases, mild swelling is a normal part of the healing process. Still, it’s important to know what to expect, what’s considered normal, and when to seek professional guidance.
Let’s break down what causes swelling after under-eye filler, how to manage it, and when to contact your provider at Glow Aesthetic Center in Encino, CA.
Is It Normal to Have Swelling After Under Eye Filler?
Yes, some swelling after an under-eye filler treatment is common — and even expected. The under-eye area is a delicate part of the face with thinner skin and more fluid retention, making it slightly more prone to temporary puffiness after injections.
You may notice swelling right after the procedure or see it gradually develop over the next 24 to 48 hours. For most patients, this swelling is mild to moderate and resolves on its own within a few days.
In addition to swelling, some people experience:
- Mild redness
- Tenderness or soreness
- Light bruising
- Slight asymmetry while the filler settles
All of these are typical early side effects and tend to improve quickly with proper aftercare.
Why Does Swelling Happen?
Swelling is a natural inflammatory response that occurs whenever the body is healing. When filler is injected under the eyes, your body registers it as a small trauma — even though it’s controlled and safe. The area may respond with localized inflammation and fluid retention, resulting in visible puffiness.
Some common reasons swelling may be more noticeable include:
Thin or sensitive skin: The under-eye area has very little fat or muscle, making swelling more visible.
Filler type: Hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Juvederm Volbella or Restylane-L can attract water, sometimes contributing to fluid retention.
Injection technique: The depth, location, and volume of the injections can affect swelling. At Glow, board-certified injectors use refined techniques to reduce this risk.
Individual factors: Genetics, skin tone, sinus congestion, and how your body reacts to injections can influence swelling.
Post-treatment behavior: Rubbing the area, lying flat, or skipping aftercare instructions can sometimes make swelling worse.
How Long Does Under Eye Swelling Last?
For most people, under-eye swelling peaks within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure and gradually improves over the next few days.
Here’s a general timeline:
Day 1–2: Swelling may be most noticeable. Some puffiness, bruising, or unevenness may appear.
Day 3–5: Swelling usually begins to subside. Results start to look more balanced.
Week 1–2: Most swelling is resolved. Your final results become visible.
In rare cases, mild swelling can persist for two to three weeks. This is more likely in individuals with a history of fluid retention, allergies, or underlying skin sensitivity.
How to Manage Swelling at Home
If you’re experiencing swelling after your under-eye filler appointment at Glow Aesthetic Center, there are several simple steps you can take to soothe the area and support healing:
1. Apply Cold Compresses Gently
Use a clean, soft cold compress or chilled gel pack (wrapped in a towel) on the area for 10 minutes at a time. This can help reduce inflammation and minimize fluid buildup.
2. Keep Your Head Elevated
Sleep with your head slightly elevated on a few pillows for the first few nights. Lying flat can increase swelling in the face.
3. Avoid Touching or Massaging the Area
Unless your Glow practitioner specifically instructs you to massage the area, leave it alone. Unnecessary pressure or rubbing can disrupt the placement of the filler or worsen swelling.
4. Use Over-the-Counter Remedies (If Approved)
Arnica supplements or creams may help reduce bruising. You may also take acetaminophen (Tylenol) if needed for discomfort — but avoid anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or aspirin unless cleared by your provider, as these can increase bruising.
5. Stay Cool and Avoid Heat Exposure
Avoid hot showers, saunas, intense workouts, and sun exposure for 24–48 hours, as heat can increase blood flow and swelling.
6. Hydrate and Limit Salt
Drink plenty of water to help flush your system, and reduce sodium intake, which can lead to fluid retention and puffiness.
When to Call Your Provider
Mild swelling is usually harmless, but certain symptoms may indicate an issue that requires medical attention. Contact Glow Aesthetic Center right away if you notice:
- Swelling that gets worse after 3–5 days
- Sharp or persistent pain
- Uneven lumps or nodules that do not improve
- Blanching (white or pale skin patches)
- Changes in vision or difficulty seeing
- Signs of infection (warmth, redness, pus, fever)
These reactions are rare, especially when fillers are administered by experienced professionals, but it’s always better to play it safe.
At Glow, our board-certified providers take time during every consultation to explain possible side effects and guide you through recovery. If you’re unsure about anything, reach out — we’re here to support your results and your peace of mind.
Can Swelling Be Avoided?
While you can’t guarantee a completely swelling-free experience, you can reduce your risk significantly with the right preparation and provider.
Here’s how to lower the likelihood of swelling:
- Choose a reputable medical spa like Glow Aesthetic Center
- Follow all pre- and post-treatment instructions
- Avoid alcohol, blood-thinning medications, and supplements before your appointment
- Be honest about your health history during your consultation
- Keep stress low and take time to rest after your session
What If Swelling Persists?
If your swelling doesn’t resolve after a few weeks, your practitioner may evaluate whether fluid buildup (also known as edema) or filler placement could be contributing. In some cases, a small amount of hyaluronidase (an enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid filler) can be used to adjust or correct the treatment.
This is rare, but it’s helpful to know that under-eye filler is not permanent, and adjustments can be made if needed to restore a smooth, natural look.
Under-Eye Filler at Glow
At Glow Aesthetic Center, we specialize in under-eye rejuvenation using FDA-approved fillers like Juvederm Volbella, Restylane-L, and Restylane Eyelight. Our experienced injectors understand the delicate anatomy of the under-eye area and use conservative, artful techniques to deliver beautiful results while minimizing risks like swelling.
If you’re considering under-eye filler or are navigating your recovery process, we’re here to help every step of the way.
FAQs
How long does under-eye filler swelling last?
Mild swelling typically lasts 2–5 days. For some patients, it may take up to 2 weeks to fully resolve.
Is it normal for one side to be more swollen than the other?
Yes, temporary asymmetry is common in the first few days after treatment. The filler is still settling and the tissue is healing. It should even out as the swelling subsides.
What can I do at home to reduce swelling?
Apply cold compresses, sleep with your head elevated, avoid heat and intense activity, and stay hydrated. Avoid touching or rubbing the area.
When should I contact my provider?
Call your provider if you experience worsening swelling after several days, pain, visible lumps, changes in vision, or signs of infection.
Can I wear makeup if I’m swollen after filler?
It’s best to wait at least 24 hours before applying makeup. Give your skin time to recover and reduce the risk of irritation or infection.
Will swelling happen every time I get filler?
Not necessarily. Some people swell more during their first treatment and experience less inflammation with future sessions. Your provider can adjust techniques based on your individual response.
