For one to two weeks after threads are placed, the face feels tight when the mouth opens wide, and swelling with bruising along the insertion lines is expected. Small dimples or puckering at the anchor points usually flatten as tissue relaxes. Threads can sometimes be felt under the skin, sit unevenly, or work loose and need removing, and infection at an entry point is unusual. Absorption over about a year means the lift gradually fades.
Where hyaluronic acid is placed, swelling, redness, and bruising last a few days and firmness can be felt for two to three weeks. Volume may look uneven between the sides while the gel settles, and small nodules or product shifting with movement can appear later. The material is absorbed over roughly six to eighteen months depending on the area. Occlusion of a vessel is rare and causes pain and skin change requiring urgent hyaluronidase.
Botulinum toxin takes three to seven days to act and about two weeks to reach its full effect. Bruising and tenderness at the injection points settle quickly. Depending on the muscles treated, temporary heaviness, a mild headache, uneven movement, or a changed expression can be noticed and corrects itself as the effect wears off. Response differs between individuals, and muscle activity returns within three to six months.