Filler Aftercare Guide · Cheongdam & Apgujeong, Seoul

What happens after filler

Hyaluronic-acid fillers such as Belotero and Juvederm are gels that attract water. In the first days, the injection itself causes some swelling, and the gel integrates with surrounding tissue. That is why the area may look slightly fuller or feel firmer at first and then soften. Structural fillers placed deeper for support tend to feel firmer than soft fillers used near the surface.

At Doje, filler is placed for support and natural movement rather than bulk — sometimes at the retaining ligaments, sometimes as soft filler in fine areas. Aftercare is about letting the product settle where it was placed.

Timeline: what is typical

These are typical ranges. Under-eye and lip areas often swell more visibly and for longer than cheeks or chin.

Aftercare checklist

• Hands off. Do not press, massage or mould the treated area unless the doctor specifically asks you to.
• Sleep on your back with your head slightly raised for the first nights if possible.
• Skip heat — saunas, hot baths, steam rooms, hot yoga — for the period advised.
• Pause strenuous exercise for a short period after treatment.
• Avoid alcohol in the first day or two; it can increase swelling and bruising.
• Make-up: wait until injection points have closed, usually from the next day, and apply gently.
• Facials, facial devices and other treatments on the same area: ask the clinic how long to wait.
• Dental treatment: avoid prolonged mouth opening soon after lip or lower-face filler.
• Flying is generally fine, but allow for swelling if you have photographs or meetings on arrival.

Urgent signs: act immediately

Rarely, filler can affect blood flow in a vessel. This is uncommon but time-sensitive, so everyone should know the signs:

• Severe pain, or pain that is increasing rather than easing.
• Skin turning pale (blanching), or a mottled, purple or dusky pattern.
• Unusual coolness of the skin, or slow return of colour when pressed.
• Any change in vision, eye pain or drooping.

If you notice any of these, contact the clinic at once on +82-2-6380-2110; if you cannot reach the clinic, or have any visual symptoms, go to emergency care without delay.

Other reasons to get in touch

• Redness, warmth or swelling that appears or worsens days later.
• A lump that is visible, tender or persists beyond a couple of weeks.
• Marked asymmetry once swelling has settled.
• Cold-sore flare after lip-area filler.

Cost

Aftercare advice is part of your treatment. Filler fees are quoted after the 1:1 consultation according to your plan. Korean non-covered (비급여) aesthetic fees are set per plan.

Frequently asked questions

How long does swelling last after filler?

Usually a few days; under-eye and lip areas may swell more and for longer. The settled result is often judged at around two weeks.

Can I massage my filler?

Not unless the doctor asks you to. Pressing or moulding can move product before it settles.

When can I exercise after filler?

Pause strenuous exercise for a short period as advised; gentle walking is usually fine.

What are the warning signs after filler?

Severe or increasing pain, pale or dusky skin, or any change in vision. Contact the clinic immediately or seek emergency care.

Is it normal to feel small lumps?

Small, non-tender irregularities you can feel are common at first and usually soften within days. Contact the clinic if a lump is visible, tender or persists.

Related at Doje Clinic

• Soft filler
• Structural filler
• Under-eye filler
• How fillers work
• Safety and side effects
• Avoiding an overfilled look
• Botox aftercare

Medical information on this page is general education, not a diagnosis. Suitability, risks and the final plan are confirmed in a 1:1 consultation with Dr. Byun Jeik. Last updated 17 October 2026.