Everything You Need To Know About Lip Fillers

closeup of young woman's lips after successful lip injections

Injectable lip augmentation (more commonly referred to as lip filler) is becoming widely popular in the U.S. – especially among the younger generation…

…we can thank Kylie Jenner for bringing fuller lips to the spotlight!

One of the most popular types of fillers are Hyaluronic Acid fillers. Hyaluronic Acid is a soft, gel-like, naturally occurring substance that is already found in your skin.

Lip Fillers: What are they?

Lip fillers or Lip augmentation is a cosmetic procedure designed to give you fuller and plumper lips by adding shape, structure, and volume. Today, injectable dermal fillers are the most commonly used method of lip augmentation.

These more sophisticated fillers are primarily made from Hyaluronic Acid, a naturally occurring substance found in the body. Hyaluronic Acid has previously been used in certain eye surgeries and to treat joint disorders because of its ability to act as a cushion and lubricant. Qualities that make it an excellent lip filler for more natural looking and feeling lips. Since Hyaluronic Acid does occur in the human body naturally (although in lesser quantities) it is more readily accepted by your body and easily metabolized over a period of months.

What Are Your Options for Lip Fillers? (brands)

Juvederm

The Juvederm collection of Hyaluronic Acid fillers are used to add volume to different areas of the face. Used to lift cheeks, smooth lines, or plump the lips.

Restylane

The Restylane collection Hyaluronic Acid fillers are used to smooth away wrinkles and folds, subtle lip enhancements, and adding lift and volume to the cheeks.

Which fillers are best?

Hyaluronic Acid fillers (like Juvederm and Restylane) are the most popular and widely used fillers today. They provide a softer, more natural appearance while also minimizing any risks involved (allergic reaction or infection). Plus their effects are reversible if deemed undesirable.

What is the procedure like? How long does it take? What does it involve?

Injectable lip augmentation can be performed quite quickly (as little as 15 min) with little or no downtime. You can go about your daily life afterward but there will be swelling involved and the possibility of some minor bruising. It is recommended not to have the procedure performed right before any major events (like a wedding or job interview).

The procedure itself involves-

Removing makeup.
Taking a before photo of your lips and the area around your mouth.
Cleansing and anesthetizing the injection sites to prevent the risk of infection and to minimize any pain.
Injecting the filler, massaging, and evaluating the results. Additional filler may be added as needed.
Once the results are satisfactory you will be offered an ice pack to reduce swelling.

In as little as 15 minutes you may be free to continue on your day. Note that the injection sites may be sore or swollen for a day or two.

Does it hurt?

Surprisingly not really, for most. While sticking a needle into your lips is going to pinch, we’re able to minimize any discomfort you feel and make the whole process as quick and painless as possible. Depending on your pain tolerance, a numbing shot or topical numbing cream can be applied to your lips and even the Hyaluronic Acid itself contains a small dose of the numbing agent lidocaine which will go to work as soon as it makes contact.

As a matter of fact, more patients reported increased discomfort during the process of massaging the filler through the lips (your physician will do this to ensure proper and even distribution) than during the actual injection. Needless to say, the pain is limited and may depend on the individual’s personal pain threshold.

How soon will I see results?

You should notice a change almost immediately. At first, your lips may look swollen or a little too “full” but that is completely normal and within 48-72 hours your lips should settle. Once they have you will see your newly filled out lips as they will look for the coming months.

Are the results permanent? Reversible?

The results of your lip augmentation procedure are anything but permanent. The results typically last about six to twelve months before your body completely metabolizes the Hyaluronic Acid.

The advancements in techniques, tools, and methods for lip enhancement have gotten to a point where nearly everything is reversible. If you are unhappy with the results of your lip injections, the Hyaluronic Acid can be dissolved with an enzyme called Hyaluronidase and have you back to where you started in about 24 hours. Giving you a little piece of mind when going through a lip augmentation procedure.

Side effects and risks are temporary and should not last more than a few weeks. They include minor bruising and bleeding around the injection site along with possible redness and tenderness.

Side effects lasting more than 10 days such as prolonged swelling, bumps or bruising are rare. While infection or allergic reactions are possible, likely candidates for these problems and ways to prevent them would be addressed during consultation.

How important is it to find an experienced injector?

While there are many things to consider when thinking about lip augmentation, the most important would be to find a doctor or physician who is experienced and highly qualified to give the injections. We’re talking board-certified Plastic Surgeons and physicians like our own Dr. Victor Lacombe and Dr. Alice Chiang.

Why choose Artemedica for your Injectables & Fillers?

We represent the Top 1% of practices in the Nation for products like Juvederm, Restylane, Voluma, Volbella, Vollure, Kybella, and Botox.
We are a National Training facility. We train physicians & nurse injectors on new products as well as advanced injection techniques for existing products.
We are a site for FDA Clinical Trials for new injectables and fillers before they even hit the market.

Interested in lip fillers?

Call us or fill out the form below to schedule a complimentary consultation at Artemedica today! In the consultation, we will discuss your desired outcome and you will learn what filler or procedure will work best for you. At that time, if you’re ready for the treatment, we can treat you the same day!