Dermal fillers are a popular and effective way to rejuvenate your face, giving you a youthful appearance without surgery. One of the most important aspects of your recovery is how you sleep after dermal filler treatment. Your sleeping position can impact how the filler settles and even affect your final results. To help you get the most out of your treatment, let’s explore the best sleeping tips, potential risks, and what to avoid after your filler injections.
Why Your Sleeping Position Matters
After receiving dermal fillers, it’s important to avoid putting pressure on the treated areas. Fillers take time to settle, and applying pressure to the face can cause the filler to move or become uneven.
Your sleeping position plays a big role in this, especially during the first 24 to 48 hours. Sleeping on your face or side too soon after treatment can interfere with the filler’s ability to stay in place, potentially leading to asymmetrical or uneven results.
Best Sleeping Positions After Dermal Fillers
Sleep on your back
This is the safest sleeping position after dermal filler treatment. It ensures that there’s no pressure on your face while you sleep, which helps the filler stay in place and allows your face to heal without any interference.
Elevate your head
Use an extra pillow to elevate your head for the first night. This helps reduce swelling by allowing fluid to drain away from the treated areas, keeping you more comfortable as you sleep.
Avoid sleeping on your side or stomach
For at least 1 night, avoid these positions, as they can apply pressure to your face and potentially cause the filler to move, leading to uneven results.
Risks of Sleeping Incorrectly After Dermal Fillers
Not following these sleeping recommendations may have a negative impact on your filler results. Here are some risks of incorrect sleeping positions:
Filler migration
If you sleep on your face or side, the pressure could cause the filler to shift from its intended placement. This may lead to uneven results or filler spreading to unintended areas.
Increased swelling or bruising
Sleeping flat on your face or side can exacerbate swelling and bruising, especially in the first 24 hours after treatment.
Asymmetry
Uneven pressure on one side of the face while sleeping can cause one side to heal differently from the other, resulting in asymmetrical facial features.
How Long Should You Follow Sleeping Guidelines?
For the first night after your filler treatment, it’s best to sleep on your back with your head elevated. After this period, you can start to return to your normal sleeping position, but continue to be mindful of not putting too much pressure on your face, especially if any swelling or tenderness persists. If you’re unsure about when it’s safe to return to your regular sleeping habits, it’s always a good idea to consult with us.
Practical Tips for Better Sleep After Fillers
Staying on your back all night might feel unnatural, especially if you’re used to sleeping on your side. Here are a few practical tips to help you maintain the right sleeping position:
- Use extra pillows. Place pillows on either side of your body to prevent rolling over in your sleep.
- Consider a wedge pillow. These pillows keep your upper body elevated, making it easier to stay in the right position.
- Opt for a silk pillowcase. A silk pillowcase reduces friction on your skin, which can be helpful if you accidentally touch your face while sleeping.
When to Contact Your Provider
While most people experience only mild swelling and tenderness after dermal fillers, it’s important to monitor how you’re feeling. If you notice any unusual swelling, increased discomfort, or signs of filler migration, contact us immediately. Addressing these concerns early on can prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome for your treatment.
