By Adrienne Yanich, RN | August 19, 2024

How Long After Filler Can You Sleep On Your Side?

Q: How Long After Filler Can You Sleep On Your Side?

Wait 3-5 days after your appointment before falling asleep on your side. Allowing time for the filler to settle is fundamental to achieving long-lasting and optimal results. The filler needs to integrate within the tissue without external forces, which could cause uneven distribution or migration.

Q: Why Does Filler Migrate?

Filler injections have the potential to migrate because the gel-like substance remains malleable shortly after being placed under the skin. This is why avoiding pressure or manipulation of the treated areas during the initial healing phase is essential, as the filler needs time to integrate and settle within the tissue.

The Best Ways To Sleep To Avoid Filler Migration

How Long After Filler Can You Sleep On Your Side?

Filler is an incredible, nonsurgical solution for patients looking to restore lost volume in the face and achieve a more balanced look. However, after your appointment, there are a few things your provider will ask you to avoid to ensure you get the best results possible. One of those lifestyle modifications includes laying down, which results in one of the most popular questions our providers face: how long after filler can you sleep on your side?

Wait 3-5 Days Before Laying On Your Side After Filler Injections

On average, dermal fillers take about 3 – 5 days to settle into place. Allowing time for the filler to settle is fundamental to achieving long-lasting and optimal results. The filler needs to integrate within the tissue without external forces, which could cause uneven distribution or migration.

“In a perfect world, we would all sleep like a vampire in a coffin to avoid any movement — but I know that’s not possible! I’ve found that 3-5 days is realistic for some of the heaviest side sleepers out there.”

-Adrienne Yanich, RN

Why Does Filler Migrate?

Filler injections — like lip injections, cheek filler and even nonsurgical rhinoplasty — have the potential to migrate because the gel-like substance remains malleable shortly after being placed under the skin. This is why avoiding pressure or manipulation of the treated areas during the initial healing phase is essential, as the filler needs time to integrate and settle within the tissue.

Tips to Help You Avoid Sleeping on Your Side

Use a Travel Pillow: A U-shaped travel pillow can keep your head elevated and prevent you from rolling onto your side during sleep.
Elevate Your Head: Sleep with an extra pillow or elevate the head of your bed slightly to maintain a supine position, which also reduces swelling.
Pillows as Barriers: Place pillows around your body to create a barrier that discourages side sleeping.
Sleep in a Recliner: If possible, sleep in a recliner chair, which naturally keeps you on your back.

What Happens If Filler Migrates In Your Sleep?

If filler migrates, it can result in uneven distribution, leading to asymmetry or unintended fullness in areas that were not targeted for treatment. This can affect the overall aesthetic outcome, potentially creating lumps, bumps or distortions in the facial contours. In some cases, corrective procedures may be required to dissolve or reposition the filler to restore a balanced appearance. Therefore, it is essential to follow post-treatment guidelines to minimize the risk of migration and achieve the best possible results.

If you believe your filler has moved, it is imperative that you get in touch with your provider to discuss the severity of the situation and potential next steps.

What Else You Should Avoid After Filler:

Touching the Treated Area: Avoid touching the treated area for 12 hours.
Exercise or Strenuous Activity: Refrain from vigorous activities for 24-48 hours.
Blood Thinners: Avoid aspirin, St. John’s Wort, fish oil and ibuprofen for 48 hours.
Direct Sunlight and Heat Exposure: Avoid tanning beds, hot tubs, and saunas for 48 hours.
Facial Treatments: Refrain from facials, massages, exfoliation, etc., for at least 2 weeks.
Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol for 48 hours.

About The Author

Adrienne Yanich, RN, is a master filler injector in Columbus, Ohio. She is one of the most tenured providers at Donaldson and a leading voice in aesthetic medicine. Throughout her career, Adrienne has performed neuromodulator injections, filler injections and laser therapy treatments for a countless number of satisfied patients. When she isn’t working one-on-one with her patients, she can be found researching the latest treatments and methods to help individuals achieve their goals.