All About Lip Fillers

Lip fillers have always been controversial, but it has been increasing in popularity since Kylie Jenner debuted her new lips in 2015. Many opposers argue that fillers produce an unnatural appearance; however, the right professional can create the illusion of having naturally full and defined lips. 

What Are Lip Fillers? 

Fillers are injections that add volume to your natural lips. They are a type of dermal filler that consists of hyaluronic acid. There are several brands of filler, such as Restylane or Volbella. I use Juvederm Ultra, which is a thinner substance than other Juvederm products. It is designed for deeper filling and to create more definition. This quick procedure only takes about 5-10 minutes and gives you 9-12 months of plump lips; depending on your age and metabolism, they might fade sooner or last longer.  One syringe can also cost anywhere between $500-$1000.

Before the Appointment

Prior to getting your lip fillers, you’ll have to meet with the healthcare provider doing your fillers to assess what type of filler you need, the amount, and the shape you are trying to achieve. They will ask you about any allergies and collect your medical history. Some providers will ask for a reference photo, so make sure to come to your appointment with a reference photo in mind. If your provider doesn’t want a reference photo, then be prepared to thoroughly describe what you want your lips to look like. Your healthcare provider will also take photos of your face and lips to compare before and after the injections. Afterward, they will examine your face and lips and give their expert opinion on the appearance to go for. This consultation appointment takes about 30 minutes. Some specialists that can perform lip injections are plastic surgeons, dermatologists, or cosmetic facial surgeons.

During the Appointment 

During the lip filler procedure, your provider will start by applying a topical numbing cream to your lips. This numbing cream consists of lidocaine, benzocaine, and tetracaine. Some providers even offer a nerve blocker injection, which is a local anesthetic that targets the nerves to lessen pain. It should take about 15-30 minutes for your lips to become completely numb. 

Once the numbing cream and/or injection has set in, your specialist will begin the injections. Using a tiny needle, your provider will begin injecting the corners of your lip, along the edges of your lip, the cupid’s bow, and the center of your lip. It is standard to use 1 milliliter of filler, but some people will use 2 milliliters. It is recommended not to get more than that in one sitting. With the numbing cream, you won’t feel much pain but a pinching sensation, or it may be uncomfortable pressure. The entire procedure can take as little as 30 minutes or as long as an hour. 

After The Procedure

After the procedure is done, your healthcare provider will massage the fillers into your lips to absorb it. They will also give you an ice pack to assist with the swelling and bruising that is accompanied following the procedure. Swelling and bruising will usually go away after 24 to 48 hours; however, it may last up to a week. For an hour after the procedure, you should not drink anything hot because you will not feel if you have burned your lips due to the numbing cream. For 24 hours after the injections, do not suck through a straw or pucker your lips as it can cause the filler to move. Lastly, avoid putting on lip products for at least a day. A follow-up appointment is typically made 2 weeks following your procedure to massage your lips again and ensure the filler is settling nicely.

This is a photo showing the before and after comparison of my lip fillers the first time I ever got them.

Advantages of Fillers

Lip fillers are safe to inject, and the fillers are also natural to us as we produce hyaluronic acid in our bodies. Having plumper, more defined lips can also give you a boost in confidence and self-esteem. Although lip fillers are not necessary and all-natural lips are beautiful, it can be fun to change your appearance a little. On another note, if you aren’t happy with your fillers, then you can have them reversed by injecting hyaluronidase to dissolve the filler. They are a great temporary way to add volume to your lips.

Disadvantages of Fillers

As with any other procedure, lip fillers have potential risks and complications that can occur. One risk is an infection at the injection sites. Some people may also experience asymmetry, which can occur if your provider does not inject the filler equally throughout your lips. Migration of the filler towards your nose can also occur, and sometimes the tissue may die if the filler is injected too far into your lip. It is always recommended to do your research on healthcare providers and find a reputable one before getting your fillers done.