Thanks to social media, celebrity endorsement, and improved products and techniques, lip fillers have become one of the most popular aesthetic treatments. Many patients seek these injections for a subtle enhancement of their lips and don’t want to appear over-filled or artificial.
To ease concerns and ensure natural and desirable results, individuals considering lip fillers should carefully research their provider and the injection process before undergoing treatment.
Here’s everything you need to know about lip fillers and what they’re really like.
What Are Lip Fillers?
Lip fillers are a cosmetic injectable used to add volume and improve the size and shape of the lips. They are often comprised of hyaluronic acid, which is a substance that’s naturally produced by the body.
Hyaluronic acid makes an excellent lip plumping agent because it can hold up to 1,000 its own weight in water. Plus, it can be easily metabolized over the course of several months to provide temporary volumizing and hydrating effects.
Are Lips Fillers Safe?
Juvederm and Restylane are the leading hyaluronic acid fillers for lip injections and both products are FDA-approved.
In the hands of a skilled and experienced medical professional, lip fillers are extremely safe. Therefore, it’s essential that patients seek only qualified injectors and forgo treatments by any person that does not have the proper education and training to handle any unforeseen complications.
Do Lip Fillers Hurt?
Many women and men fear that lip injections are going to be a painful experience. When in fact, they are very well tolerated by most individuals.
A topical anesthetic is usually applied to the lips and many filler formulations contain lidocaine for added comfort. Sensitivity can also depend on injector technique.
What Do Lip Fillers Feel Like?
Once the lips have been numbed, the filler is injected from the outside edges of the lip and feel like a slight pinch. The product is then massaged to ensure even distribution and avoid the formation of bumps, granulomas, or other irregularities.
Patients may experience some tightness, swelling, or bruising in their lips for 12-48 hours post-procedure. Ice packs can be used to reduce inflammation during this time.
What to Expect From Lip Filler Results?
Lip fillers provide immediate results, and patients will note plumping right away. However, it can take up to two weeks to see final effects.
Treatment benefits can remain for six-to-nine months.
For additional information about lip fillers, please call our office today to schedule a consultation.