Undergoing lip reduction surgery is a transformative experience, but the first week post-procedure is crucial for proper healing and optimal results. Patients often have questions about what changes to expect, how their lips will look, and how to care for them during this early stage.
Dr. Viral Desai, one of a renowned cosmetic and plastic surgeon in Mumbai, is recognized for his precision, artistry, and patient- centered approach. His expertise in facial and lip procedures, combined with meticulous technique, ensures natural-looking results and smooth recovery. Over the years, Dr. Desai has become a trusted name for advanced aesthetic surgeries, providing personalized care that prioritizes both safety and satisfaction.
Dr. Viral Desai, says,
“The first week after lip reduction surgery sets the foundation for smooth healing and natural results. Understanding what’s normal and how to care for your lips can make all the difference.”
What Changes Can You See 1 Week After Lip Reduction Surgery?
At one week after lip reduction surgery, you may notice the following changes:
- Mild swelling and bruising – Common around the lips and adjacent areas; gradually subsides over the next few days.
- Tenderness and tightness – Lips may feel firm or slightly stiff when talking, smiling, or eating.
- Incision appearance – Surgical lines may look pink or slightly uneven initially.
- Gradual shaping – The lips start settling into their new contour, but final shape is not yet visible.
- Sensitivity – Some areas may feel more sensitive to touch or temperature changes.
These changes are typical and part of the normal healing process. Proper care and following your surgeon’s instructions help ensure smooth recovery.
How Do Your Lips Look One Week Post-Surgery?
One week after lip surgery, your lips typically exhibit the following appearance:
- Slight swelling – The lips may look a bit fuller than the final result, which is normal at this stage.
- Bruising or discoloration – Light purple or reddish areas may be visible near the incision lines.
- Pinkish incision lines – Surgical lines may still appear prominent but will gradually fade over time.
- Softening of stiffness – While some tightness remains, the lips begin to regain natural flexibility.
- Early contour formation – The new shape is noticeable but will continue refining over the next several weeks.
This stage provides the first clear glimpse of your lip transformation, and patience is key as healing continues.
How Should You Care for Your Lips During This Stage?
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At one week post-surgery, gentle and consistent aftercare plays a major role in healing. Here’s how to protect your results and support recovery:
- Keep the incision area clean
Use the prescribed ointments and follow your surgeon’s cleaning instructions to prevent infection and promote smooth healing. - Apply cold compresses (if recommended)
Light, intermittent cold therapy can help reduce any lingering swelling or discomfort. - Avoid stretching your lips
Minimize wide mouth movements like laughing excessively, yawning, or opening too wide while eating. - Stick to soft foods
Choose foods that require minimal chewing to avoid stressing the incision area. - Stay hydrated and use lip-safe moisturizers
Drinking enough water and keeping the lips lightly moisturized helps prevent dryness and cracking. - Avoid makeup on or around the lips
Cosmetic products should be kept away from the healing area until your surgeon approves. - Sleep with your head elevated
This helps minimize swelling and supports proper circulation during healing. - Follow all postoperative medications
Take antibiotics or pain relievers exactly as prescribed for a safe recovery.
Gentle care during this week ensures the best possible healing and reduces the chance of irritation or delayed recovery.
- Keep the incision area clean
Activities to Avoid One Week After Lip Reduction Surgery
At the one-week mark, healing is still progressing, so it’s important to avoid activities that can strain or irritate the lips:
- Avoid strenuous exercise or heavy lifting, as increased blood flow may worsen swelling.
- Do not smoke or vape, since nicotine slows healing and increases complication risk.
- Skip spicy, hot, or acidic foods that can irritate the incision area.
- Avoid excessive lip movement, including wide yawning, laughing, shouting, or stretching the lips.
- Do not apply makeup on or near the lips until cleared by your surgeon.
- Avoid touching, rubbing, or picking at the incision lines.
- Skip swimming pools, saunas, and steam rooms, as they may increase infection risk.
When to Consult a Surgeon
While the first week after lip reduction surgery typically involves normal swelling and mild discomfort, you should seek a surgeon’s evaluation if you notice:
- Severe, persistent, or worsening pain that doesn’t improve with medication
- Excessive swelling that increases instead of gradually decreasing
- Signs of infection, such as redness spreading around the lips, warmth, pus, or fever
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop, or sudden reopening of the incision
- Asymmetry that seems to be getting worse, rather than improving
- Numbness or unusual sensations that continue beyond the expected recovery period
- Delayed healing, where stitches appear loose or the wound seems unstable
Conclusion
One week after lip reduction surgery is an early healing stage where swelling, tightness, and mild discomfort are still completely normal. With proper care, patience, and the right post-operative guidance, your lips will continue to refine in shape and softness over the next few weeks.
Under the care of Dr. Viral Desai, patients receive personalised recovery instructions and close follow-up support to ensure the healing process remains smooth and complication-free. Staying consistent with aftercare and knowing when to seek help plays a significant role in achieving natural, well-balanced results.
If you have concerns during this stage, a timely consultation can help protect your recovery and final outcome.
