If you’ve just had a lip enhancement, you may need to hold off on the smooching for a bit. To help you plan your next kiss with confidence, here’s how long you should wait after popular lip procedures like lip fillers, lip flips, and gummy smile treatments.

Lip Flip

Wait Time: 1-2 Days

A lip flip involves relaxing the muscles around your upper lip, causing it to roll slightly upward and create the appearance of fuller lips. While this procedure doesn’t involve added volume, mild swelling or tenderness is common. To allow the Botox to settle and avoid migration, wait at least 24 hours before gentle pecks. For more intense kissing, it’s best to wait up to 48 hours to ensure that pressure doesn’t affect muscle relaxation.

Lip Filler

Wait Time: 2-3 Days

Lip fillers use hyaluronic acid-based substances to add volume and shape. Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common after the procedure. Fillers need time to integrate into the tissue, and any pressure—like kissing—can risk filler migration or uneven results. Gentle kissing may be fine after 48 hours, but for more passionate kissing, wait 72 hours to ensure optimal results.

Gummy Smile Treatment

Wait Time: 1-2 Days

Gummy smile treatment involves Botox injections to relax the muscles that lift the upper lip. This can temporarily affect lip movement, making kissing feel different or awkward. Wait at least 24 hours for the Botox to settle before light kissing. For more pressure, wait 48 hours to minimize muscle strain and ensure the treatment has fully taken effect.

Additional Considerations for Recovery

• Arnica for Bruising: Arnica, a natural remedy, can help reduce bruising and swelling. Start taking arnica tablets 24 hours before your procedure and continue for up to a week afterward, as directed by your provider.
• Avoid Dental Procedures: Schedule any dental work before your lip procedure or wait at least two weeks afterward. Dental treatments can apply pressure to the lips and increase the risk of filler migration or infection.
• Antibiotic Use: If you need antibiotics after receiving filler or Botox, consult your provider. Certain antibiotics can interact with these treatments, potentially affecting their results.

Why Wait? Understanding Migration Risks

• Filler Migration: Pressure on the lips within the first few days can cause fillers to shift from their intended location, leading to uneven results. Hyaluronic acid fillers need time to bond with surrounding tissue.
• Botox Migration: Botox can spread beyond the targeted muscle if pressure is applied too soon, which may result in unwanted muscle relaxation.
• Healing Sensitivity: Swelling, bruising, and tenderness are common post-procedure effects. Kissing too soon may increase discomfort and prolong recovery.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

• Avoid Touching or Massaging: Refrain from touching or rubbing your lips to prevent filler displacement or Botox migration.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain filler volume.
• Skip Straws: Using straws can create pressure on treated areas.
• Watch Your Diet: Avoid hot, spicy, or irritating foods for the first 24 hours.

Follow your provider’s aftercare instructions, and before you know it, you’ll be ready to kiss with confidence—without compromising your results!