The popularity and desire for lip fillers has grown and evolved over recent years. What started as a trend that most people would gate-keep has now become a consistent and popular choice of aesthetic enhancement, embraced by people of all ages and backgrounds.
For those beginning their aesthetic journey and seeking lip fillers near them, it’s crucial to fully understand the procedure, the available options, and how treatment works. Lip fillers, also known as lip enhancement or augmentation, is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that aims to ameliorate your lip shape to your desired aesthetic by enhancing your lip volume to achieve a well-balanced appearance with the rest of the face [12]. Whether you’re looking to enhance naturally thin lips or restore lost volume from ageing, sun damage, smoking, or genetics, this procedure can help you achieve a fuller, more youthful appearance [8].
In experienced hand, the procedure usually takes around 30 minutes and generally causes minor discomfort, as most lip fillers are combined with a local anaesthetic [12]. However should it be needed, you can be reassured that numbing creams and dental blocks are also available for your comfort [7]. It is recommended that you only opt for lip filler treatment once you are above the age of 21 and always find a qualified medical practitioner to administer the treatment to you [7].
One of the most common concerns people have regarding this treatment is how long do lip fillers last. The results of this treatment can last up to 18 months, depending on factors such as the type of filler used, the technique applied, and the quality of your post-treatment care. [6][7]. The biggest benefit of lip filler is that it increases your confidence in your appearance by giving you control over your facial aesthetics. This procedure is highly customisable to your individual aesthetic goals with the option of opting for more precision through the needle technique or choosing the cannulas for a smoother, more natural outcome [7]. With minimal recovery time, lip fillers provide a safe and effective way to achieve fuller, more defined lips.
Hyaluronic Acid-Based Lip Fillers
Among the different lip fillers available, those made from Hyaluronic Acid are the most commonly used for lip enhancement in the UK [9]. Hyaluronic Acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that plays a crucial role in maintaining hydration by attracting water molecules, earning it the title of the body’s natural moisturiser [4][7]. This allows for structural support in the soft tissues creating the aesthetic appearance of full, well-defined lips [4][7].
Its natural presence in the body minimises the risk of allergic reactions, making Hyaluronic Acid-based lip fillers a popular choice for lip enhancement treatments [4]. They are also a preferred choice as they allow more volume adjustment control, creating precise and natural-looking results with minimal bruising and swelling [2][4]. Other lip fillers are seldom due to safety concerns [6].
Lip Filler Precautions & Procedure
The lip filler procedure may seem daunting at the outset but with the right precautions, treatment technique and aftercare, there’s nothing to worry about. Pretreatment there are some precautions you should take before your lip filler procedure. You must refrain from taking aspirin for seven days, NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen) for two days, and alcohol for 24 hours before your lip filler treatment [4]. During your consultation, your practitioner will assess your facial features, photograph your lips, and map injection sites [7]. It is crucial that you clearly communicate your desired outcome during this consultation [5]. Additionally, be sure to inform your doctor about any products you regularly use on your face [5]. And lastly, on the day of the treatment, avoid using products with active ingredients [5].
The lip filler treatment begins with cleansing and disinfecting the lips, followed by the application of a topical numbing cream (if necessary) [4]. The lip fillers are then injected using either a needle or a blunt-tipped microcannula, depending on your desired outcome [3][7].
| Cannula Technique | Needle Technique | |
| Benefit | Reduced risk of bleeding, bruising, and swelling. Typically, less painful with minimal downtime [7]. | Offers precision for detailed work and is essential for treating finer areas [3]. |
| Procedure | Involves making one entry point on either side of the lips, allowing for an even spread of the lip filler with a natural result [7]. | Involves serial puncture and linear threading, either antegrade or retrograde, depending on aesthetic goals [8]. |
The lip filler is then injected into your targeted area such as the body, edges, cupid’s bow, or corners of the mouth [6]. The entire procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, with most lip filler treatments completed in under 45 minutes [6].
Post-Treatment
What you can expect from the lip filler procedure in the first 24-48 hours, is that mild swelling, redness, and light pain may occur but don’t let it scare you. It will subside within a few hours and usually only lasts a few days [5][12]. Ice packs will help you reduce swelling and bruising, and you must avoid applying anything to the lips for at least 24 hours post-treatment [4]. You will typically be able to see the results of the lip filler treatment almost immediately with minimal downtime [4]. After between two and six weeks, the lip fillers will settle, and collagen production will begin [5]. To ensure proper healing, you should refrain from using skincare products with peeling agents, avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol for two days, and stay out of the sun for two weeks [4].
Following post-treatment care will reduce the risk of complications. You should have a follow-up appointment 2 to 4 weeks after your lip filler treatment to review your results and discuss long-term considerations with your doctor [6]. A common lip filler risk that many people have concerns about is the fear of an unnatural or overly volumized appearance [12]. However if proper technique is followed then risks such as lumps and uneven distribution of the lip filler will be avoided [6]. Remember to keep regular consultations with your doctor to ensure safe and satisfying results and for you to make informed decisions for further lip filler treatments [6][7][8].
Bibliography
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https://www.rsph.org.uk/about-us/news/the-rise-of-lip-fillers-and-their-risks.html - Mountford, Dr.T. (2023). Types of Lip Filler Injections and What Our Top Injectors recommend. [online] Cosmetic Skin Clinic. Available at:
https://www.cosmeticskinclinic.com/blog/types-of-lip-filler-injections-and-what-our-top-injectors-recommend/ - Prime Aesthetica. (2023). Juvederm vs. Restylane: How to Choose Dermal Fillers. [online] Available at:
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