What you need to know about lip fillers.
THE CONSULTATION
Before any procedure – surgical or, in this case, non-surgical, you will be invited to a consultation before any ‘work’ is carried out. I explain that I use different fillers for different facial areas, this is due to filler variants design. Teoysal Redinsisty II for example is the one I would use for the tear troughs, whereas I might use Dermalax Deep Plus for lips. During your consultation, the right treatment for your desired goals will be outlined, as well as the associated risks, and what to expect at your next appointment. It’s advised that you avoid exercise and hot drinks 24 hours prior to having filler.
THE TREATMENT – WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Dermal fillers help to restore our skin and facial contours while plumping certain areas. Juvéderm VOLUMA or Teoysal is commonly used filler. This type of dermal filler is an advanced, cohesive 3D hyaluronic acid matrix that is completely broken down within the skin over a period of months, eventually leaving no trace. Different amounts of filler can be used, depending on your natural features and what you hope to get out of your treatment. Most commonly, this will be 0.5ml or 1ml (a full syringe), though higher quantities are available for those who require it. You are generally advised to start with 0.5ml or 1.0ml which would allow the skin to begin stretching the dermal layer before working up to higher amount over a few sessions. This would also ensure the most natural result for the client’s face – it’s always easier to add than take away.
Prior to your treatment, you will be offered a local aesthetic in the form of a numbing cream. This is placed over the surface area of your lips and left for up to 25 minutes to take effect. The sensation feels very similar to the anaesthetic you may experience at the dentist. It tingles slightly and can also numb the tongue, but as a first timer or even the experienced , I wouldn’t want to proceed without it. The filler is then injected into several points in your lips using a very fine needle, concentrating on both the outer contours and body of the lips. The process of dermal fillers is very quick – the treatment is completed normally within 15 minutes.
WHAT IS USED FOR LIP FILLERS?
Juvéderm, Revolax and Dermalax are some of the most common types of injectable. It’s composed of non-animal stabilised hyaluronic acid, which not only works to plump and define, but also holds water within your lips. When combined with the body’s own production of hyaluronic acid, it creates your desired volume. Because hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in our bodies, the injected filler will be absorbed effectively over a period of time.
DOES IT HURT?
Your lips are extremely sensitive; therefore, some pain is to be expected. This, of course, depends on an individuals’ pain threshold and whether the local anaesthetic is used. I found some of the injections particularly uncomfortable – especially around the cupids bow, but it’s definitely bearable. While the numbing cream certainly takes the edge off, some types of filler also contain a percentage of lidocaine to provide extra anaesthesia, meaning your lips are numb for a longer period of time.
AFTERCARE
From your initial consultation, you’re informed that you’re likely to experience some swelling and bruising after the treatment. The tenderness and tightness can last for a few days after and full recovery is expected by the two-week mark – allowing time for the filler to integrate and attract water to the area. You’re advised not to wear makeup for 12 hours after the procedure, avoid smoking and massage lips regularly if you’re informed to do so. It’s also recommended that you sleep with your head elevated and avoid alcohol and blood thinners (NSAIDs) for 24 hours post treatment. Ice can be used if swelling is extreme but should be avoided too often as it can cause the filler to harden.
HOW LONG DOES FILLER LAST?
One of the most common questions when approaching the topic of lip fillers is ‘how long will it last?’ The answer varies. How long filler lasts is dependent on a number of factors: a person’s age, metabolism and even the time of year can all contribute to the longevity of filler. On average, lip filler lasts anywhere between 4 to 6 months – even longer if you have the procedure done regularly (allowing the hyaluronic acid to hit capacity).
HOW MUCH ARE LIP FILLERS?
Our prices start from £140.