Facial fillers (aka dermal fillers or wrinkle fillers) are an increasingly popular non-surgical aesthetic procedure for adding volume and smoothness to the skin. They are injected into specific areas of the face and help to plump thin lips, soften wrinkles, improve skin’s firmness, and enhance facial symmetry.
However, many people’s common concern is whether it is safe to fly on an airplane after getting facial fillers. Some people think flying might be okay after facial injections like lip filler, chin filler, or under-eye filler. However, traveling shortly after getting filler injections could impact your treatment results and put you at risk for more serious complications. This is especially true if you’re jetting away right after your treatment or are taking a lengthier flight.
Therefore, it is important to educate yourself about flying after getting facial fillers so that you can make an educated decision regarding the timing of your filler treatment.
Read on to find out how to plan your facial filler treatments around your travel plans so that you can avoid the potential risks and enjoy beautiful results.
What are the Dangers of Flying After Facial Fillers?
Flying in an airplane soon after getting facial fillers can pose numerous dangers and risks. It is crucial to understand these concerns to ensure your safety and well-being. Keep reading as we explain the potential issues associated with flying after getting facial fillers such as cheek filler, under-eye filler, chin filler, or neck filler.
First, flying at high altitudes causes changes in air pressure inside the airplane cabin. This change can adversely affect facial fillers, such as under-eye or cheek fillers. The decreased atmospheric pressure may cause the fillers to expand or shift from their original placement. In some cases, this expansion can result in uneven or lumpy cheek filler, which is not only undesirable but can also be challenging to correct. This displaced filler can affect the desired aesthetic outcome, leading to uneven results or the need for touch-ups.
Additionally, flying involves spending extended periods in a closed environment with recirculated air. This recycled air may have low humidity levels, resulting in skin dehydration. Dehydrated skin can lead to decreased elasticity and dryness and may even affect the longevity of your filler injections. Additionally, air re-circulation increases the risk of exposure to germs and bacteria, potentially leading to infections at the injection sites.
Furthermore, flying can induce fluid retention and increased swelling in the body due to the lack of movement and prolonged sitting. This swelling may worsen the side effects of facial fillers like neck or chin filler and increase the chances of discomfort, bruising, or uneven results. In addition, sitting for extended periods can affect blood circulation, potentially leading to blood clots or deep vein thrombosis, which can be life-threatening in rare cases.
Lastly, the rapid changes in pressure can lead to the development of air bubbles or pockets within the filler material. If these air bubbles are not resolved, they can block blood vessels and hinder blood flow to the area that was treated.
Flying After Lip Fillers
If you are considering flying after getting lip filler, there are a few potential risks. In general, flying right after getting lip injections can disrupt the healing process, making it take longer for any side effects or swelling to subside.
The most important risk to consider is swelling and discomfort. Getting lip fillers causes swelling and bruising around the lips. These symptoms can worsen due to changes in air pressure during a flight. As a result, this may lead to increased discomfort and prolonged swelling of the lips.
Another risk with flying after getting lip fillers is infection. Any medical procedure carries a risk of infection, and flying after lip filler can potentially increase this risk. The air in airplanes can be dry and recirculated, which may harbor bacteria or other pathogens that could increase the chances of infection in your lips.
Decreased blood circulation is another complication to consider when flying soon after getting lip injections. Flying for longer durations can potentially increase the risk of blood clots due to decreased blood circulation. This is especially true if combined with the lack of mobility of long flights. Because lip fillers can sometimes cause temporary swelling, this may further increase your risk of blood clot formation when coupled with the decreased blood flow during the flight.
How Soon Can You Fly After Getting Lip Fillers?
It is generally recommended to wait at least 24 to 48 hours after getting lip fillers before flying in an airplane. This allows time for any swelling, redness, or bruising to subside, reducing the risk of potential complications during the flight. Additionally, following the aftercare instructions is a great way to alleviate swelling and bruising. In general, flying soon after getting facial fillers will prolong healing and recovery.
Aside from bruising and swelling, you must also consider what you will do if a side effect occurs mid-flight that requires an assessment by a cosmetic practitioner. Most serious side effects from lip fillers will occur within the first week following your treatment. Therefore, if you want to be extra cautious, you should ensure you can return to the clinic within that time frame.
For shorter, domestic flights, this poses less of an inconvenience. However, for longer international flights or flights with significant delays, it is recommended you wait at least one week before traveling on a plane. This allows for any time-critical side effects to be assessed or treatment to be performed promptly.
To further mitigate any complications, it is advisable to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your medical practitioner who administered the lip fillers. This may include staying hydrated, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and taking precautions to minimize swelling and discomfort. Consulting with your medical practitioner before flying after lip filler is recommended to ensure personalized advice related to individual circumstances and the specific type of lip filler used.
Facial Filler Aftercare
It is important to follow the proper aftercare instructions after getting facial fillers for under the eyes, lips, cheeks, or chin. These aftercare instructions are even more crucial if you plan to travel shortly after getting dermal fillers and will help you ensure a smoother recovery.
To minimize the effects of swelling, bruising, and redness following your procedure, gently apply an ice pack or cold compress on the treated areas. Remember not to apply ice directly to your skin but wrap it in a cloth or towel first. Also, try to sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated for the first few nights, as this can also reduce swelling.
Additionally, it is crucial to keep the treated areas clean to prevent infections. Your practitioner may suggest using a gentle cleanser or antiseptic solution to wash the areas. Make sure to follow their recommendations and avoid using any harsh or abrasive products that could irritate the skin. You should also avoid touching or rubbing the treated areas for at least 24 hours after the procedure. This can help to prevent any unintentional movement or displacement of the fillers.
For the first few days after the treatment, it is also advised to avoid strenuous activities that may cause excessive sweating or increase blood flow to the treated areas. This includes intense workouts, saunas, or steam rooms. Physical exertion can affect the absorption of the fillers and prolong the recovery process.
Lastly, it is important to stay hydrated, as this can assist in the healing process and maintain the general health of your skin. Drinking plenty of water will help flush out toxins and moisten your skin from within, promoting a faster recovery.
Everyone’s recovery experience may vary, so it’s essential to follow the specific instructions given by your injector. If you have any concerns or notice any unusual symptoms, it is important to contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Enhance Your Beauty with Dermal Fillers in New York City
Dermal fillers can dramatically improve your facial harmony and enhance your natural beauty. If you are considering getting facial fillers such as lip filler, chin filler, or under-eye filler to refresh your appearance and improve your self-confidence, your experience will be exceptional at SKINNEY Medspa. We are one of the leading providers of dermal fillers in New York City. We provide the most popular lip filler collections, including Juvéderm and Restylane.
Call us at (212) 754-6639 to schedule a free consultation or reach out to us online at https://skinneymedspa.com. Chat with one of our expert injectors to learn more about the benefits of facial fillers and how you can effectively manage your treatments around your travel plans. We look forward to providing you with a luxurious medspa experience and jaw-dropping results.
