Puffiness, Swelling & Lymphatic Concerns

• Puffy face, especially around eyes and jawline

• Fluid retention and “tired” look

• Post-procedure congestion

How it happens 

Facial puffiness often reflects transient fluid accumulation in the interstitial space when lymphatic drainage or venous return is temporarily reduced (e.g., sleep position, salt intake, hormonal shifts). The lymphatic system is responsible for returning interstitial fluid and macromolecules to the circulation; when it’s sluggish or overloaded, tissues appear puffy.

Variations

• Localized (periorbital in the morning) vs generalized facial puffiness.

• Can be driven by lifestyle, inflammation, or systemic disease.

Severity & treatment approach

• Mild, lifestyle-linked: addressed with sleep, diet, salt, and posture plus manual lymphatic drainage techniques and appropriate skincare.

• Persistent / asymmetric / associated with other symptoms: needs medical evaluation first to rule out systemic, renal, thyroid, or cardiac causes; aesthetic drainage work is only appropriate once those are excluded and/or managed.