Lip Filler Bumps After a Year – Causes & Solutions

Lip Filler Bumps After a Year: Lip fillers assist in achieving a younger cosmetic appearance by augmenting the lips. While most clients are satisfied with their results, some may notice persistent lumps or bumps—even a year later. 

Sound familiar? 

If so, then do not worry. It’s more common than you might think, and it can usually be treated with the right intervention. 

This blog will explain long-term bumps, their normalcy, possible complications, and treatment options. Whether you’re planning on getting lip fillers, already have them, or want to know more about those annoying lumps, this will guide you. 

Are Lip Filler Bumps After a Year Normal? 

It is normal to feel lumps in the lips a few days after the dermal filler procedure is conducted. Even a year after the procedure, it is commonplace for the lips to feel uneven. 

This is linked to some inflammation, the normal movement of the filler, or small damage from the needles. Most of these problems are self-resolving within 2-4 weeks without any treatment. 

In contrast, lumps that last or show up well after this first phase, for example after one year, are considered abnormal and may suggest a problem. If you’re noticing bumps at this point in time within the healing process, it makes sense to speak with your aesthetic practitioner about this. 

What Causes Lip Filler Bumps to Appear After a Year? 

Lumps that appear or persist long after lip filler treatment can stem from several underlying causes. Here are a few of the most common underlying explanations: 

Granulomatous Reactions 

Granulomatous reactions refer to the irritation of your immune system responding to the filler, commonly hyaluronic acid. 

It is possible for these reactions to occur weeks, months, or even years after the lips have undergone the initial treatment. Granulomas are not common, but they are acknowledged as a delayed dermal filler complication. Firm or hard areas may develop in the lips over time. 

Delayed Hypersensitivity Reactions 

Hypersensitivity reactions usually occur between 48 to 72 hours after the procedure is completed, but these can appear much later. The symptoms that accompany this include some degree of redness (erythema), swelling (oedema), and certain parts of the lips feeling softer or harder than normal. 

Earlier Infection or Poor Injection Technique 

Poor standards of hygiene during the procedure, combined with a poor injection technique, can lead to late onset lump forming infections or needle trauma. These problems can develop but do not necessarily appear immediately after the primary procedure. 

Filler Properties 

The material that the filler is made from, as well as its density, can affect it, too. Fillers that are thicker in composition, or those which are specially designed for deeper and structural support, are more likely to form lumps as time passes. 

Long-Term Complications to Be Aware of 

For the most part, everything goes according to plan with the filler procedures. However, there are some long-term complications that you need to pay attention to when it comes to lip filler lumps. 

Filler Migration 

Fillers can migrate away from their original injection site, sometimes for as long as 5 years after treatment. If filler migration occurs, it can cause an uneven or lumpy appearance, especially at the borders of the lips and in other regions such as the chin and cheeks. 

Granulomas 

These inflammatory bumps can occasionally occur after you’ve received fillers and may form days after or years later. Granulomas are uncommon. They may feel hard or tender and, in some cases, require dissolving with hyaluronidase or surgical removal if severe.

How to Manage Persistent Lip Filler Bumps

Do not worry if lumps remain after a year—there are several safe and effective treatment options available.

Hyaluronidase Injections

Hyaluronidase, which is an enzyme, is the most common treatment for fillers with hyaluronic acid. It helps in breaking down the filler so that your body can absorb it, offering a quick way out to smooth lumps.

Steroid Injections

If the lumps are a result of inflammation or hypersensitivity, steroid injection can help ease swelling and discomfort.

Surgical Removal

Although uncommon, surgical treatment may be needed for persistent or severe lumps—particularly granulomas or lumpy scar tissue.

Scar Tissue Management

Surgical and enzymatic treatments may both be required to manage lumps caused by scar tissue.

Prevention and Aftercare Tips

While there is no shortage to how one can deal with lip filler bumps after a year, prevention is crucial in reducing the chance of this issue arising in the first place.

Choose a Skilled Practitioner

Ensure that the practitioner you select holds valid licences and has considerable experience. Poor injecting techniques along with subpar filler products are some of the most common causes that lead to complications during and after lip-filler procedures.

Make Sure to Follow All Aftercare Instructions

Alcohol and touching your lips right after the procedure are two of the things you should be avoiding. Your practitioner will inform you of these restrictions as well as guide you on how to effectively care for your skin after the procedure. Sticking to the prescribed instructions mitigates the risk of complications down the road.

Massage Carefully

Gentle massage is acceptable in the weeks after treatment to aid in distributing the filler. Though, this is only permissible if your practitioner allows it. Otherwise, your attempt to massage may result in unnatural movement of fillers.

Avoid massaging without professional guidance, as it could worsen filler migration.

Consulting a Professional

Once the allotted time has passed and the filler has set, if you start noticing new lumps in addition to the remaining ones, consult a professional. Some blatant indicators make it obvious that you need an appointment with a dermatologist or aesthetic practitioner. These include:

• Unusual pain or discomfort
• Signs of infection like redness, throbbing, or any other form of warmth to the area
• Asymmetrical appearance due to migration of the filler
• Swollen areas that remain despite the time

Taking action sooner rather than later can spare you from unnecessary issues and restore the vigour you lost due to them.

Enhancing Your Lips Safely

When done correctly, lip fillers can change your overall appearance, but staying vigilant about consequences and how to address them is necessary to avoid untreated lumps a year later, while they are still treatable.

Like many things in life, prevention begins with selecting the correct practitioner and following their instructions.

There is a practitioner who can help you achieve your aesthetic goals in a safe manner. So, whether you’re contemplating fillers or seeking other alternatives, I recommend you get in touch.

💬 Book a Consultation

If you’re concerned about long-lasting lip filler bumps, don’t leave it to chance. Speak with a medically trained practitioner to assess your options, from dissolving treatments to minor corrections. Our clinic specialises in aesthetic care that prioritises your safety and satisfaction. 

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