- Lip fillers can add volume and fullness to thin lips and treat lip lines and wrinkles.
- Lip fillers produce immediate results.
- This procedure is relatively safe, with most people experiencing only mild side effects.
- Most lip fillers last up to one year; some options last longer but may be less safe.
It is no secret that plump, full lips are widely considered to be attractive. To achieve this look, physicians and nonphysicians have experimented with various treatments for many decades. From paraffin injections in the early 1900s to synthetic and natural tissue implants, they have had varying degrees of success.
Modern lip fillers are the culmination of this experimentation that offer a safe and effective solution for lip augmentation.
Contents
What Are Lip Fillers?
Lip filler injection is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that is performed at a doctor’s office with minimal downtime. They are injectable treatments that can add volume and definition to the lips, improve lip symmetry and treat vertical lip lines.
Fillers are generally made from natural or biocompatible compounds such as hyaluronic acid. Due to their ease of administration and instant results, lip fillers have boomed in popularity over the past few decades.
Lip fillers vs. lip augmentation
Surgical lip augmentation is another option for improving the aesthetics of the lips. Through a small surgical incision, an implant or filling material is inserted to achieve the intended effect. Synthetic materials such as silicone and polytetrafluoroethylene, as well as dermal fat grafts (skin and fat tissue) harvested from another body area are possible options.
Compared to fillers, surgical augmentation produces longer-lasting results but is more invasive and carries a higher risk of complications. It is also generally more expensive with less predictable results.
Types of lip fillers
Most modern lip fillers are based on hyaluronic acid (HA), a natural compound that is abundantly found in body tissues. HA is used as a soft tissue filler in many areas of the body and has demonstrated safety and efficacy as a lip filler.
Collagen is a natural compound that can be used as a lip filler. However, the collagen used in soft tissue fillers is extracted from animals, which poses a risk of allergic and inflammatory reactions. An allergy test is necessary before receiving collagen injections.
Another possible option is fat transfer; using liposuction to remove some fat tissue from the thigh, abdomen or other parts of the body, then injecting it into the lips. While this produces permanent or semipermanent results, it is relatively unpredictable, more invasive, and associated with additional risks of complications.
Juvederm and Restylane are the two major brands of HA-based lip fillers currently approved for use in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These fillers are available in a variety of formulations to best serve your needs.
- Juvederm Ultra XC for lip augmentation.
- Juvederm Volbella XC to address fine lip lines and provide a moderate volume increase.
- Restylane for fuller lips and to correct minor lip folds.
- Restylane-L for results similar to Restylane but with an additional numbing agent for added comfort during the injection process.
What is the best lip filler?
HA is considered the best option for nonsurgical lip augmentation. The simplicity of the procedure, relatively low cost and consistently good results make it an excellent choice.
Collagen and fat transfers used to be popular options for lip augmentation; however, the more favorable safety and predictability of HA fillers have made them significantly more popular.
An experienced provider can administer HA fillers in minute quantities to make precise and symmetric adjustments. HA fillers also have a reversal agent in case the results are not satisfactory.
Juvederm and Restylane are comparable in terms of effect, safety and longevity, and can generally be used for the same indications.
Candidates
Adults who are in good health, have no medical conditions and are nonsmokers are good candidates for lip injections. A realistic understanding of what fillers can and cannot do will help you define your goals with your cosmetic provider and achieve the results you are seeking.
Who should avoid lip fillers?
People with the following conditions should avoid lip filler injections:
- Active infections or cold sores
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune conditions such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
- Bleeding or blood clotting problems
- Allergy to lidocaine (local anesthetic)
What to Expect During the Procedure
Lip filler injection is a simple procedure performed at a doctor’s office with almost no downtime.
Preparation involves marking the treatment area and applying a topical numbing agent such as lidocaine. Some fillers contain lidocaine premixed in the vial.
Using a very fine needle or cannula, your provider will inject the filler under your skin. You may need multiple injections during the same session to achieve the desired results. The procedure, including preparation time, should take 15 to 30 minutes.
Do lip fillers hurt?
Lip filler injections can cause some slight discomfort. Applying a topical numbing cream, using an injectable nerve-blocking medication or using a filler with a premixed numbing agent can help reduce the discomfort.
With a numbing agent, you will feel the initial needle prick and a sensation of pressure rather than pain.
The downside of using a numbing cream is that it can cause some swelling, which can make it harder for the provider to gauge the results with precision, until the swelling goes down.
Aftercare
Following the procedure, you may experience some swelling and bruising for up to two weeks. You should follow some simple instructions and precautions to speed up recovery and avoid any complications:
- Apply an ice pack to the lips to reduce swelling
- Avoid vigorous exercise and direct sun exposure for 48 hours
- Avoid massaging or unnecessarily touching of the injection site
- Avoid aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen, as they may cause bleeding
Lip Fillers Before and Afters
How Long Do Lip Fillers Last?
HA fillers are temporary and last between six to twelve months. To maintain results, you will need to repeat the treatment periodically.
Collagen fillers are also temporary and are typically absorbed by the body after about three months.
Fat injections last years and are considered semipermanent, while surgically inserted synthetic implants made of silicone are truly permanent.
Can lip fillers be reversed?
In the event you are not satisfied with the results, a reversal agent can remove the filler. Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that is injected to degrade HA safely and effectively.
More permanent lip augmentation options such as implants or fat transfer are more difficult to reverse or correct.
Side Effects and Risks
Lip filler injections are fairly safe when performed by an experienced provider. Side effects are generally mild and self-limited; they include:
- Swelling and bruising lasting up to two weeks
- Bleeding at the injection site
- Pain
More serious side effects and complications are rare. These may include:
- Reactivation of cold sores
- Skin infections
- Allergic reactions
- Asymmetry and poor aesthetic outcome
- Tissue damage causing ulceration, scarring or necrosis (tissue death)
There is no downtime following lip filler injections – you can follow your daily routine immediately, keeping in mind the aforementioned precautions.
Lip fillers at home
Some people may be tempted to try lip filler injections at home to save on professional fees. This is highly dangerous and can lead to a host of complications including infections and poor aesthetics. Only a qualified medical professional should give dermal filler injections.
Cost
The main determinant of lip filler cost is how many vials or syringes are used. Lip fillers are usually available in syringes of 1 cc (1 mL) each, and most people experience good results with one to two syringes.
On average, one vial of HA filler (Juvederm or Restylane) costs about $650–$700. Other factors that may influence the cost include geographic location and additional facility fees.
How to Pick a Lip Filler Provider
Selecting a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon you feel comfortable with will go a long way towards ensuring you get your desired results. You should opt for a consultation session with your provider before deciding on treatment.
Ask your physician about their experience with this particular treatment, whether they can share any before and after pictures, and what they would recommend for you.
Takeaway
Lip filler injections can help you add volume, plumpness and symmetry to your lips. Most modern lip fillers are temporary and last months and will need to be repeated to maintain the results. More permanent options do exist but they come with additional downsides that make them a less attractive option.
Sources
- Glicenstein J. [The first “fillers”, vaseline and paraffin. From miracle to disaster]. Ann Chir Plast Esthet. 2007 Apr;52(2):157-61. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16860452
- Donald W. Buck, Murad Alam, John Y.S. Kim. Injectable fillers for facial rejuvenation: a review. Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery. Volume 62, Issue 1, 2009, Pages 11-18, ISSN 1748-6815,
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bjps.2008.06.036 - Brody, H. J. (2001), Complications of Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene (e‐PTFE) Facial Implant. Dermatologic Surgery, 27: 792-794. doi:10.1046/j.1524-4725.2001.01014.x
- Cockerham K, Hsu VJ. Collagen-based dermal fillers: past, present, future. Facial Plast Surg. 2009 May;25(2):106-13. doi:10.1055/s-0029-1220650
- Rzany, B. , Becker‐Wegerich, P. , Bachmann, F. , Erdmann, R. and Wollina, U. (2009), Hyaluronidase in the correction of hyaluronic acid‐based fillers: a review and a recommendation for use. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 8: 317-323. doi:10.1111/j.1473-2165.2009.00462.x
- Glogau, R. G., Bank, D. , Brandt, F. , Cox, S. E., Donofrio, L. , Dover, J. , Grekin, S. , Lawrence, I. , Lin, X. , Nestor, M. , Shamban, A. , Stewart, D. , Weiss, R. , Axford‐Gatley, R. A., Theisen, M. J. and Smith, S. (2012), A Randomized, Evaluator‐Blinded, Controlled Study of the Effectiveness and Safety of Small Gel Particle Hyaluronic Acid for Lip Augmentation. Dermatol Surg, 38: 1180-1192. doi:10.1111/j.1524-4725.2012.02473.x
- Geronemus, Roy G. MD; Bank, David E. MD, FAAD; Hardas, Bhushan MD, MBA; Shamban, Ava MD; Weichman, Barry M. PhD; Murphy, Diane K. MBA. Safety and Effectiveness of VYC-15L, a Hyaluronic Acid Filler for Lip and Perioral Enhancement: One-Year Results From a Randomized, Controlled Study. Dermatologic Surgery: March 2017 – Volume 43 – Issue 3 – p 396–404. doi:10.1097/DSS.0000000000001035
- Pasini, Lisa MD; Cavallini Maurizio MD; Gazzola, Riccardo MD. (2019) Herpes Virus Outbreaks After Dermal Hyaluronic Acid Filler Injections. DOI:10.1177/1090820X12452293
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FAQs
How long do lip fillers last the first time? ›
A. For the first time lip augmentation, results can last 4-6 months. However, some may last up to 9 months. The variability stems from the HA filler product chosen, and the amount injected.
How much does lip filler cost UK? ›How Much Do Lip Fillers Cost in the UK? In the UK, prices for facial fillers vary. The can cost between £150 – £350 per session depending on the amount of filler used. How much lip fillers cost UK may depend on location.
What are the long term effects of lip fillers? ›“When you repeatedly enlarge the lips — pumping them up as big as possible — the filler can act as a tissue expander, permanently stretching the skin, and causing the lips to sag and deflate when the filler eventually degrades, leaving you in worse shape than when you started,” she explains.
Do lip fillers damage your lips? ›On the whole lip injections do not damage lips, the filler used (hyaluronic acid) is a naturally occurring acid which gets slowly absorbed by the body. Any damage caused to the lips is usually by poor technique created by the person doing the injections.
Will lips go back to normal after fillers? ›The experts at Body+Beauty Lab can let you know how long to expect results to last during your initial treatment. When the treatment is dissolved, patients will notice their lips return to their normal appearance.
What's the longest lasting lip filler? ›Juvéderm Vollure.
Vollure is the longest lasting of all lip filler options, lasting up to 18 months. The filler remains soft but provides the needed structure and shape some lips require.
- Pro: Stimulate Collagen. ...
- Pro: Non-Surgical Procedure. ...
- Pro: Create Youthful Appearance. ...
- Pro: Reduce Symptoms of Various Conditions. ...
- Con: Temporary Results. ...
- Con: Potential Side Effects. ...
- Con: Cost.
Your lips will be swollen at first, but you'll see the effects of the fillers quickly. The swelling can take 1-3 days to go down. 6. If done correctly, injected lips don't feel any different to real lips; even when you are kissing (once the swelling goes down).
How much do fillers cost UK? ›Treatment | Price (from) |
---|---|
Facial Areas | |
Lip enhancement | from £420 |
Nose to mouth lines | from £530-£630 |
Cheek enhancement | from £420-£670 |
How much do lip fillers cost in the UK? Lip fillers typically cost between £250 to £500 per ml, but clinics can charge as much as £1,000.
How much does filler cost? ›
How much do dermal fillers cost? Dermal fillers range from approximately $530 to $930 per syringe, depending on the thickness and longevity of the filler being used. A simple lip treatment usually requires just one syringe, while cheeks usually need at least two syringes of thicker filler.
How long do the effects of hyaluronic acid last? ›Like most dermal fillers, the results from hyaluronic acid aren't permanent. On average, you'll need to repeat this type of treatment every three to nine months for lasting results, as injected fillers gradually break down once in your body.
How long does filler last for? ›Deep injections may last as long as 12 months, and newer products on the market may last up to two years.
How long does swelling from lip filler last? ›Patients tend to report that lip swelling is the worst the first day after their injection, particularly in the morning. Swelling should go down within 2–3 days after your lip filler treatment, and should subside completely within 2 weeks post-treatment.
How much does it hurt after lip fillers? ›Most of the time this is mild and slightly uncomfortable. This should subside after about 2 weeks. However if your pain and swelling is severe you should call your provider who can advise you as to the best way to treat this.
How long does it take for lips to heal? ›Severely chapped lips may take longer to heal, but the average time is two to three weeks to recover completely. If you treat chapped lips as soon as you notice a problem, your lips will heal much faster and you can avoid potential complications like infection.
How can I get my lips back to normal? ›- Use a homemade honey scrub. Share on Pinterest Exfoliating the lips with a honey scrub can help remove dead skin cells. ...
- Have an almond oil lip massage. ...
- Make your own lip balm. ...
- Hydrate. ...
- Use lemon, with care.
Answer: Duration of effect for hyaluronic acid lip fillers
Of all the areas that we treat with hyaluronic acid fillers, the lips tend to have the shortest duration of effect. Patient age, lip size, vascularity, and movement are variables that affect how long fillers last here.
While the lifespan of dermal fillers can vary considerably between patients, depending on the product, your lifestyle and unique metabolism, Juvederm is the longest-lasting temporary lip filler with results visible for up to a year. Restylane comes in at a close second, with results lasting between 6-10 months.
What to avoid after fillers? ›- Botox and fillers act differently in your body. ...
- Don't participate in intense cardio. ...
- Don't apply makeup or use facial tools. ...
- Don't lie down. ...
- Don't drink alcohol. ...
- Don't get a facial, massage, or microdermabrasion.
Why are my fillers not lasting? ›
Why Are Filler Results Temporary? Dermal fillers are created using naturally occurring enzymes, such as hyaluronic acid. For this reason, they are metabolized by your body over time. The speed of your metabolism will greatly affect how long your treatment results last.
How long does it take for lips to flip? ›As we mentioned, it can take up to a week before your pouty lips really become noticeable.
How safe are lip fillers? ›Are Lip Injections Safe? Lip injections/lip fillers are very safe — when administered by the right hands. There are some things you're going to want to consider when you are thinking about lip injections. We've put together a helpful guide to help you decide if they're right for you.
How much are lip fillers for the first time? ›0.5ml is a great introductory filler amount for first-time lip filler clients, especially if you're nervous of what the result will be. Remember you will swell after treatment a little, so you will not see major change with 0.5ml after the treatment has settled over the first 2-4 weeks.
Can I get more lip filler after 2 weeks? ›So you might be better off getting your first lip augmentation injections in two treatment rounds, not just one. A secondary follow-up LIP FILLER TOP-UP injection appointment would typically occur at the 2 to 3-week mark, so then allow extra time after that.
Do lip fillers hurt UK? ›Injections are given around the area of your face being treated, which is then massaged. It might feel uncomfortable but should not be painful. The treatment usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes, depending on the area being treated.
How much is 1ml filler UK? ›Amount | Price |
---|---|
0.55ml | from £79 to £119 |
1ml | from £99 to £199 |
depending on product used (Juvederm, Yvoire or Belotero) |
As a general guide, you can expect to pay the following amounts for your dermal fillers: £250 to £280 per syringe of Juvederm filler.
What are the long term effects of facial fillers? ›As well as stretching of the skin, excessive use of fillers can result in longer term damage including wrinkling of the lip and disturbance of the attachment of the facial fat pads and some degree of irregularity and ageing of the skin, he explains.
How much does it cost to get lip filler dissolved? ›According to RealSelf.com, the cost ranges between $50 and $1,625, with an average cost of $450. The internet tends to suggest you can DIY pretty much anything, but this isn't something you should attempt to do yourself. You'll need to get lip fillers dissolved in a clinical setting, by a skilled medical professional.
Does 1ml lip filler make a difference? ›
It's a common misconception that dermal filler is going to dramatically change your appearance with the very first treatment. In actual fact, 1ml of dermal filler is just enough to create a very subtle result that clients can then build upon over time (if that's your goal).
Do fillers age you? ›Fillers are a great option for patients seeking a softer, more youthful look. However, if used improperly or over used, fillers can have negative long term consequences. In fact, patients who do not properly use filler could actually speed up their skin's aging process, resulting in older looking skin.
Why are fillers so expensive? ›Cost of Filler? Why so expensive?! | Dr. Maren Locke - YouTube
How long does pain from filler last? ›Immediately after the treatment, there may be a slight redness, swelling, tenderness, a faint bubble‑like appearance and an itching sensation in the treated area. These side effects are a normal result of the injection and will generally disappear gradually over a period of 7–14 days.
Do fillers look better over time? ›Answer: Fillers improvement over time.
Once the fillers settle in, and your tissue heals from injections, your results can truly be seen as they are!
Composed of hyaluronic acid, a substance that's naturally found in the body, more people are discovering that fillers can help slow down the effects of the natural ageing process. Over time, as facial movement increases in areas like the lips or cheeks, it causes the filler to break down and dissolve at a quicker rate.
How long before you see the effects of hyaluronic acid? ›In the case of linear hyaluronic acid injections, the results' duration and timing are different: the first results are visible after at least three or four weeks; additionally, this type of injection is performed in cycles, i.e. repeated at regular intervals, in order to consolidate and maintain its results.
How long do Juvederm side effects last? ›Thankfully, JUVÉDERM™ side effects typically last only a few days to one week. The side effects will typically be the most pronounced in the first day or two days after the JUVÉDERM™ procedure, with the side effects becoming less serious as time goes by.
Why does my lip filler go away so fast? ›Too much exposure to UV rays can cause certain types of filler to break down more quickly, which will lead to your body absorbing them sooner than you may like.
How do you make fillers last longer? ›- Stay Hydrated. Hydration not only keeps wrinkles at bay, but helps maintain your injections. ...
- Practice Good Skin Care. ...
- Avoid UV Exposure. ...
- Eat Right. ...
- Take Extra Zinc. ...
- Stay Stress-Free.
How long does hyaluronic acid last in lips? ›
Hyaluronic acid fillers can improve the appearance of your lips by adding: shape, structure and volume. The effects typically last around eight months. After that more injections are needed to keep the volume of your lips.
How long do lips feel lumpy after filler? ›Swelling and some lumpiness is normal for a few days up to a week or two after injection of filler into the lips. Especially if needles are used, some bruising and bumps are usually expected and typically subside over the following week.
What are the pros and cons of lip fillers? ›- Pro: Stimulate Collagen. ...
- Pro: Non-Surgical Procedure. ...
- Pro: Create Youthful Appearance. ...
- Pro: Reduce Symptoms of Various Conditions. ...
- Con: Temporary Results. ...
- Con: Potential Side Effects. ...
- Con: Cost.
Severe allergic reactions to lip fillers are rare, but remain a possibility nonetheless. In some cases, patients have an allergic reaction to the Hyaluronic acid or polylactic acid (PLA) that is present in some fillers.
Do lip fillers permanently stretch your lips? ›And yes, using too much lip filler product can permanently stretch lip skin. If this occurs, it is possible to perform surgery to remove excess skin from the lips.
What is the safest lip filler? ›Answer: Hyaluronic acid products are the best lip fillers
The hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane are probably the best and safest fillers on the market as risk is very low and they can be reversed with hyaluronidase.
Deep injections may last as long as 12 months, and newer products on the market may last up to two years.
How long does it take for lips to flip? ›As we mentioned, it can take up to a week before your pouty lips really become noticeable.
How can I make my lip fillers last longer? ›- Follow the aftercare advice. ...
- Stick to the shade. ...
- Minimise your stress. ...
- Be aware of your exercise regime. ...
- Eat healthily. ...
- Ask about different types of filler. ...
- Schedule your top-up appointments.
Delayed hypersensitivity reactions are characterized by induration, erythema, and edema and are mediated by T lymphocytes rather than antibodies. They typically occur 48–72 hours after injection but may be seen as late as several weeks postinjection and may persist for many months.
What is normal after lip fillers? ›
Swelling is the most common side effect and is most apparent in the first 24 hours after getting your injections. Swelling should subside within 2 weeks, and be completely unnoticeable after four weeks. Bruising at the injection site is another common side effect and will also decrease within the first 2 weeks.
How do I know if my lip fillers have gone wrong? ›Severe pain: which may initially be dulled if anesthetic cream has been applied to the lips. Prolonged blanching: when the affected area looks very pale, white or dusky due to the reduction in blood supply. Purple discolouration: this typically occurs several hours after treatment when tissue death has already occured.
What happens if I stop getting lip filler? ›Unless you go to extremes with lip fillers or choose a very unskilled injector, your lips won't be permanently stretched. This means that if you choose to stop having lip filling injections, your lips will likely return to their normal proportions.
What are the benefits of lip fillers? ›- Enhanced Appearance. For most people, the greatest benefit of lip fillers is the appearance of fuller lips. ...
- Natural Fullness. ...
- Gradual Progression. ...
- Little to No Side-Effects. ...
- Lip Filler Recovery is Fast.
Discontinuing the treatment will not make your wrinkles worse. When the effect wears off, the treated area will go back to its original appearance. With dermal fillers, most people think your skin will become wrinkly or saggy if you stop getting injections.
How long do lip fillers last UK? ›They usually last between 6 and 18 months. Most dermal fillers used in the UK contain a natural substance called hyaluronic acid. If you have fillers, the rest of your face will continue to age as normal.
Why is Revolax so cheap? ›REVOLAX comes straight from the manufacturer to our distribution centre and therefore, costs are saved which allows us to sell REVOLAX at the same low prices.
How long does swelling from lip filler last? ›After dermal filler injections, you may notice some swelling, redness, bruising, and / or tenderness in the lips. Typically, filler symptoms last about two weeks after treatment. About two days after lip filler injections, you'll likely start to notice the swelling is going down.