After Nose Filler: Recovery, What to Watch For and Possible Risks

Although nose filler is a short procedure, the period afterwards is an important part of the result and of safety. This article explains what to expect after nose filler, what to pay attention to, the possible risks and which symptoms mean you should see a doctor immediately.

What to Expect After the Procedure

• There may be mild swelling, redness and tenderness at the treatment site; these usually decrease within a few days.
• Small bruises may appear at the injection points.
• As the swelling goes down, the result can be assessed more clearly; your doctor may want to see you again for a check-up.

What to Pay Attention to in the First Days

• Avoid rubbing, squeezing or massaging your nose.
• If you wear glasses, ask your doctor when you can wear them.
• Wait for the period recommended by your doctor before intense exercise, saunas and very hot environments.
• If you use cold compresses for swelling, apply them without pressing on your nose.
• Use sunscreen when going out in the sun.

Possible Risks

The risks that may occur after nose filler include:

• Prolonged swelling or redness
• Infection
• Allergic reaction
• Irregularity, lumps or asymmetry
• Blockage of a blood vessel by the filler

Vascular blockage is rare, but the nose is a high-risk area for it. A blockage can cause permanent damage to the skin (tissue death) and, very rarely, can affect the blood vessels supplying the eye and cause loss of vision. For this reason it is important that the procedure is performed by a doctor who knows the anatomy of the nose well, in a setting where immediate treatment is possible if needed.

Which Symptoms Need Immediate Medical Attention?

• Increasing or severe pain
• Whitening, purplish or mottled discolouration of the skin
• Blurred vision, loss of vision or eye pain
• Fever, increasing redness and warmth

If you notice these symptoms, contact the doctor who performed the procedure or the nearest emergency department without delay.

Realistic Expectations

Nose filler is a method that adds volume; it does not make the nose smaller, and in some people the nose may look slightly fuller. Dissatisfaction with the result is mostly due to the gap between expectations and the limits of the method. For this reason it is important to discuss openly with your doctor before the procedure what can and cannot change. For more information you can visit our nose filler page.

Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın