Lip fillers are the most popular dermal filler of 2022. We are seeing many women choosing this cosmetic procedure, from celebrities to our neighbors. Despite being a trending cosmetic treatment, a woman who is considering lip fillers should learn more about them. There are many types of lip filler, as well as a few minimal risks and side effects you should be aware of. Before undergoing this treatment, speak to your healthcare provider and make sure to ask any lingering questions you may have. Armed with all this information, you can feel 100% confident making this cosmetic decision for yourself and how it will affect you in the future.
What are lip fillers?
Lip fillers are cosmetic injections that add volume to your lips. They can change the shape of your mouth, making your lips look more heart-shaped and plump. These injections are a type of dermal filler.
Lip fillers are made of synthetic hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in your body. It acts as a cushion and a lubricant, as well as affecting the way we respond to injury and swelling. The synthetic version used for this treatment is safe and has similar benefits. There are many different brands of lip fillers, including Juvederm®, Restylane®, and Perlane®. Typically, a healthcare provider only works with certain brands. Therefore, he or she will recommend which is right for you.
Why get lip fillers?
People choose to get lip fillers for many reasons including the following.
- Smoothing wrinkles. Smiling and laughing cause wrinkles on and around the lips.
- Correcting the shape of the mouth. It is very common for people to have asymmetrical smiles.
- Restoring lip size. With age, the plumpness of the lips can diminish.
- Increasing self-esteem and confidence. Many people with thinner lips believe having a fuller mouth will boost their confidence and self-esteem.
Are there any risks associated with lip fillers?
While this treatment is typically very safe and associated risks are rare, there are a few you should consider.
Getting lip fillers poses some risks, including:
- Bleeding and pain at the injection sites.
- Cold sore reactivation.
- Discoloration or tenderness.
- Infection.
- Tissue death. (This can occur if lip filler is injected into or around an artery.)
- Asymmetry.
- Migration. (The filler may move to other areas of your face.)
What to expect before, during & after your treatment
Every patient’s experience with lip filler is unique. You should speak to your healthcare provider to learn a little more about what you can expect for your unique circumstances. However, below is a general outline of how lip fillers are typically administered.
Before Treatment
Before your lip filler procedure, you’ll meet with your healthcare provider. They’ll assess many factors, including your mental health and any social conditions. They will ask you questions pertaining to your expectations and why you want to get fillers to begin with. He or she will also assess your general health, inquiring about any preexisting medical conditions, risk factors, and allergies. With this information, he or she will determine if you are an eligible candidate for treatment.
If your provider determines that you are a good candidate, then your provider will measure your face. You will discuss your expectations. You should bring a photo if you can that reflects what you want your treatment to look like. It’s possible he or she won’t want to base your treatment on a photo, however, it can’t hurt to have it with you at your consultation.
During Treatment
During your lip filler procedure, your provider will apply a topical anesthetic to your lips. This will numb your lips so you won’t feel pain and can be as comfortable as possible during treatment. The numbing creams often consist of benzocaine, lidocaine, and tetracaine (BLT). This takes about 30 minutes to become effective.
Then, your provider uses a thin needle to inject lip filler into the target treatment area. You shouldn’t feel any outright pain, but you may feel a pinching sensation, and your eyes may water. On average, a provider will insert 1 milliliter (mL) of lip filler into the patient’s lips, which is about one-fifth of a teaspoon. The needle won’t go deeper than 2.5 millimeters (mm) into the skin.
Then, he or she may apply an ice pack to your lips to minimize swelling and bruising.
The entire procedure may take as little as 30 minutes or as long as two hours depending on the desired results.
After Treatment
After the procedure is complete, your healthcare provider may gently massage your lips to help the treatment area absorb the filler. They will likely continue to ice your lips, too.
You will be monitored for 15 minutes after treatment to ensure you don’t experience any side effects, including dizziness, nausea, or bleeding. Once that time has passed, they will discharge you and you can go home.
Your healthcare provider will also want to see you for a follow-up appointment about two weeks after the procedure.
Recovery
You will have some bruising, swelling, and sensitivity for 24 to 48 hours after treatment. In some cases, it takes a full week for the swelling to subside.
Below are a few quick tips for a speedy recovery.
- Apply an ice pack for up to 10 minutes to reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling.
- Refrain from touching or puckering your lips. This includes kissing and sipping from a straw.
- Avoid wearing lipstick, chapstick, or any other product on your lips for at least 24 hours.
- Be gentle when brushing your teeth.
- Avoid exercising for at least 24 hours immediately after treatment.
- Stay hydrated.
How long do they last?
Note that typically, lip fillers last anywhere from one year to 18 months. However, the longevity of the treatment depends on your age and how fast your metabolism works. Younger people tend to burn calories faster. So, in these cases, lip fillers don’t last as long.
Dr. Berlet Can Help You
Dr. Anthony Berlet has helped patients with lip fillers for over 20 years. He helps patients in the northern New Jersey and New York City areas achieve their body goals and determine the right cosmetic treatments for their unique circumstances. Along with his team of caring and dedicated medical professionals, Dr. Berlet prioritizes patient health and desired outcomes while ensuring comfort and safety throughout the journey. From your initial consultation to the final results, the team at Berlet will be alongside you the entire way. Reach out to us today to learn more about this treatment.