Flying after fillers: what you need to know

There’s a lot to consider when getting dermal fillers, especially if it’s your first time. But there’s even more to consider if you plan to travel straight after your appointment, or are travelling from overseas to visit your practitioner for the treatment. We called in the experts to break down everything you need to know about fillers and jetting off, so you can book both trips and treatments in confidence.

How long after getting fillers can someone fly? 

There are no hard and fast rules because it really depends on each person’s history. However, the general consensus is a day or two. “Although people will get treatments done at my clinic and then fly home, for patients that are a little bit more anxious or have medical problems, I advise them to wait in the UK for a day or two after having the treatment to make sure no complications happen,” explains Dr Ahmed El Muntasar, EV expert and award-winning aesthetician.

EV expert Dr Emmaline Ashley prefers patients wait until their 2 week check-up appointment to avoid complications and ensure she’s “available and accessible to review the patient face-to-face if necessary.” She notes that most medical literature recommends waiting at least a week post-treatment before flying. “There will usually be some initial bruising and swelling post-treatment, which can be made worse by the pressurised conditions of the air cabin. If you’re prone to swelling after treatment or water retention when flying, definitely avoid flying in this one week window,” she adds.

Having said that, there’s nothing to stop you flying home straight after. If it’s a treatment you’ve had many times before and you’re confident with your practitioner, you should be fine to travel right away.

Does this differ depending on the type of dermal filler? 

No, this doesn’t differ for the type of fillers. It can, however, differ for the area you’re getting fillers. “I find more delicate areas such as under eyes because it naturally swells more, the air pressure might make the swelling worsen a little bit,” explains Dr El Muntasar.

What side effects can occur when flying after filler? 

Both experts agree that swelling is the most common side effect, closely followed by bruising. This is due to increased air pressure inside the plane cabin. “This can increase your overall recovery time, but will not affect the final result of your treatment,” explains Dr Ashley.

What's the best time to fly?

“Ideally wait at least a week before you fly anywhere as most serious complications become apparent in the days immediately after filler,” says Dr Ashley. She also advises that you “discuss your holiday plans with your injector so they can advise you on treatment planning and timing,” Dr Ashley advises.

Top tips for flying after fillers? 

Dr El Muntasar recommends arnica cream to help reduce bruising and Dr Ashley echoes this. “If you must fly, taking arnica tablets or applying arnica cream may help minimise swelling and bruising.” Although difficult when flying, you can try using an ice pack to ease swelling. “You could also wear a facemask because the air on planes is recycled and is full of bacteria, which could cause an infection,” says Dr El Muntasar.