What is Lip Filler and what does it do?
Lip filler is an injectable gel-like product made out of synthetic hyaluronic acid (HA fillers). Lip filler can help soften lines and creases in lips, giving lips a more hydrated appearance. As well as add volume and height to lips, if we want our lips to look more full or defined. There are different types of lip fillers and we choose them based on their firmness, viscosity or flexibility, and ability to bind water. Every individual has different appearing lips and lip goals, so considering these factors when choosing which lip filler we use will help us to achieve the best results.
How Long Do Dermal Fillers Last?
The length that dermal fillers last varies depending on multiple factors. In areas of the face where there is significant movement, such as the lips or around the mouth, the duration will tend to be less than other areas of the face. Everyone metabolizes lip filler at a different rate due to their own metabolic factors. In general lip filler will last about 6-12 months.
Who Can and Cannot Get Lip Filler?
Lip filler is not for those under eighteen or who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Those who are immunocompromised, have certain autoimmune conditions, are on blood thinners, or get cold sores should consult with a trained aesthetic injector before getting lip filler.
If you have been sick, had a vaccine or dental work, you should not get lip filler for at least 2 weeks following these events.
How do I prepare for my Lip Filler appointment?
Avoid Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Advil, St. John’s Wort, oral Vitamin E, and non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)seven days prior to your treatment as they may promote the risk of bruising and bleeding in the injection area. If you are currently taking anti-coagulation medications (Warfarin, Coumadin, Heparin, Lovenox, Enoxaparin, Lepirudin, Refludan, Ticlopidine Ticlid, Clopidogrel, Plavix, Tirofiban, Aggrastat, Eptifibatide, Integrilin), discuss the use of these medications with your injector prior to your treatment. Alcohol and caffeine within 48 hours of your procedure can increase risk of bruising.
If you are prone to cold sores (oral herpes simplex), please notify your provider and take your prescribed medication (Famvir, Famciclovir, Valtrex, Valacyclovir, Acyclovir) as prescribed in the 24 hours prior to your treatment.
What should I expect after getting my lips filled?
It is normal for lips to look swollen, lumpy/bumpy, bruised, asymmetric, and “ducky” after injections. We recommend clients do not love or hate their lips for at least two weeks as lips change daily during the healing process. Lips will continue to heal and settle in up to six weeks after injections. If you have any questions or concerns during the healing process you should text/call the clinic so you can talk with your injector.
Avoid applying pressure or touching the treated area for six (6) hours after the procedure. The area can then be gently washed with a cleanser and water. Avoid vigorous scrubs, exfoliation, or facial treatment in the area of treatment for 72 hours. Avoid Microdermabrasion or Vibradermabrasion for 72 hours after cosmetic dermal fillers. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or UV/tanning beds for 72 hours after the procedure. Avoid manipulation of the area following the injection unless specifically instructed otherwise by your healthcare practitioner. For pain/discomfort, use cool packs and over-the-counter analgesics (Acetaminophen, Tylenol).
A two week follow up after your lip injections is recommended so you can take your after photos and review your results. Sometimes a “touch up” is needed at this time and is complementary to get results you love.
How Frequently Should I Get My Lips filled?
In general, we usually recommend getting lip filler 1-2 x per year. This can vary depending on how quickly you metabolize filler (whether slowly or quickly) and what your lip goals are. People who want to build volume/maintain their volume may need to fill lips more than 2x per year. We usually recommend people wait at least 3 months between lip filling appointments.
Ok I’m Interested, Now What????
The best way to decide if lip filler is right for you is to schedule a consultation with a trained aesthetic injector. Here at Amélie Specialized Aesthetics we love working with our client’s to help the best plan of action together. Our consultations are completely complimentary.
