Lip filler injections have become one of the most popular treatments in the beauty and aesthetic industry. More and more people are interested in achieving the perfect pout. Lip fillers provide a subtle enhancement that can make a big difference in your self-confidence. If you’re considering getting lip fillers, keep reading to find out how long lip filler lasts and what to expect.
What are Lip Filler Injections?
Lip fillers are a type of dermal filler for enhancing volume and adding extra plumpness to the lips. It’s a non-invasive treatment that can create bigger lips, boost lip definition, and provide a more rejuvenated look. Lip fillers are also effective for smoothing out lipstick lines and smokers’ lines.
Lip injection fillers use hyaluronic acid, which helps the skin retain softness and moisture and increase volume. As hyaluronic acid is a naturally produced substance in the body, small amounts are more happily accepted.
Before hyaluronic acid, most fillers contained collagen. But that’s not so common anymore. There is a range of fillers on the market that use different hyaluronic acid concentrations, elasticity, and longevity. This is something to discuss with your practitioner at your consultation.
You can also use fillers in other areas of the face, including:
- Jaw and chin – filler in the jaw and chin can help reduce the appearance of sagging skin and bone loss around the area.
- Cheek fillers – injecting filler into the cheek can help to increase volume in the area above the cheek. It creates the appearance of a more defined cheekbone and can also help to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles.
- Non-surgical rhinoplasty – injecting filler into the nose can temporarily improve the appearance of a bump on the nose but can’t alter the actual size of the nose.
- Forehead lines – dermal fillers are an alternative to Botulinum toxin to fill in forehead lines and smooth out wrinkles on the forehead.
Lip Filler Before and After
How Long Does Lip Filler Last?
Lip filler injections deliver almost immediate results within 48 hours. During treatment, the hyaluronic acid solution is injected into the lips to increase plumpness and enhance your natural shape. You have complete control over the amount of solution and gradually inject small amounts. The treatment should be virtually painless and deliver relatively long-lasting effects. Lip injections last up to 6 months, with follow up treatments recommended between 6 and 12 months.
Lip Filler Swelling Stages
One of the reasons why lip filler is so popular is that you can get back to your normal routine pretty immediately. It delivers lasting effects without the need to recover for weeks or take any time off work. Many patients choose to work from home for the first couple of days while the swelling goes down.
Here’s a breakdown of the lip filler swelling stages you can expect after your appointment:
- Lip filler appointment day – you will have considerable swelling after your appointment.
- Day 1 – this is when the swelling is the most intense. The upper lip may project further than the lower lip. The lips will look bigger because of the inflammation.
- Day 2 – swelling will still be apparent but may start to reduce 48 hours after your appointment.
- Day 4 – your lips will feel more comfortable, and any projection should be less noticeable as the inflammation continues to come down.
- 1 week – swelling should have mostly subsided, and you should see the final outcome.
- 2 weeks – your lip filler should be settling in. Although there may be some swelling still, most people feel confident taking a photo or going to an event. If swelling continues after 2 weeks, you should speak with your doctor.
How Much Lip Filler Should You Get?
In general, most patients get between 0.5ml and 1ml lip filler, but it depends on the individual person and the shape of their lips. If you’re looking for a natural increase or just the lower lip, then the smaller amount may be suitable. You can build up lip filler rather than go for a large amount at once. While it may take a little longer to achieve the desired look, you have more control over the final result.
Lip Injections: Side Effects and Risks
Lip fillers are an aesthetic treatment, which means that a lot of these types of treatments are unregulated. That’s why it’s so important to go to a qualified and reputable professional. It’s tempting to go to a salon or beauty spa, but UK regulations around injectables are a work in progress. Because treatments like botulinum toxin injections and dermal fillers are considered ‘minimally invasive’ cosmetic treatments in the UK, anyone can administer them. For safety and confidence in your results, a qualified doctor or nurse should administer lip fillers.
The procedure is usually safe. However, it’s normal to experience some temporary side effects. These can include bleeding on the injection site as well as swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness. The most severe side effects are rare but can include an allergic reaction and excessive swelling.
What is Lip Filler Migration?
Lip filler migration occurs when lip filler migrates into another part of the body. If your lip filler has migrated, it would usually be noticeable through a puffy lip or a lack of border around the lips. Migration can occur due to overfilling. So, it’s important to be aware of the amount of filler being injected as well as choosing the best clinic for your appointment. For more information, we’ve pulled together a guide on lip filler migration.
Lip Filler Injections at the Harley Clinic
Even if you’re just a little curious about lip fillers, always speak to a professional before committing to a cosmetic treatment. Fillers can give your lips the type of shape and fullness you’ve always dreamed of. By choosing the right technician with advanced knowledge of lip filler injections, you can rest assured you’re in safe hands.
Book a consultation today at our Harley Street cosmetic surgery clinic.
