More challenging than brow procedures—lips highly vascular, constantly moving, exposed to food/drink. Immediate post-procedure: significant swelling (lips 150-200% normal size first 24-48 hours), very bold dark color (shocking but expected, lightens significantly), tenderness. Days 1-3: peak swelling, color very intense, difficulty eating/drinking/talking. Liquid/soft bland diet essential. Constant ointment application preventing drying. Sleep elevated. Ice helps swelling. Days 3-7: swelling decreasing, intense flaking/peeling beginning (large sheets coming off, color seeming to disappear underneath—alarming stage). Lips feel extremely tight, dry, chapped. DO NOT PICK. Keep slathered in healing ointment. Color looks patchy, uneven, ghostly pale—normal, temporary. Days 7-14: continued peeling completing, extreme dryness, lips may crack if not constantly moisturized. Color looking very faint, washed out (will intensify). Week 2-4: true healed color emerging, softer and lighter than initial. Texture normalized. May appear too light needing touch-up boost. Social downtime: plan 5-7 days minimal public interaction—swelling, peeling, bold color obvious. Most comfortable resuming normal activities week 2. Special events: schedule minimum 6-8 weeks before important dates allowing complete healing, touch-up. Challenges: constant ointment application (every 2 hours initially), food restrictions first week, resisting urge to pick peeling skin, dramatic appearance changes throughout stages requiring patience, trust in process.