Full, well-defined lips are one of the most popular aesthetic goals today. In fact, they’re the second-most popular nonsurgical cosmetic treatment, second only to neurotoxins.
If you've never had lip filler, you likely have a few questions, such as:
If you’re asking questions, we’ve got you covered. Glenn Kolansky, MD, FAAD, and the Advanced Dermatology Surgery & Laser Center team believe that the best cosmetic results start with solid patient education.
In that spirit, here are eight things you need to know about lip fillers.
Many people lump all cosmetic injectables into the same category, but lip fillers and neurotoxins work differently.
Most lip fillers are made with hyaluronic acid, a gel-like substance naturally found in your skin that helps retain moisture and volume. Rather than relaxing muscles like a neurotoxin, lip fillers add volume, enhance shape, improve symmetry, and define the lips.
The result can range from a subtle enhancement to a fuller pout, depending on your goals.
Did you know that you don’t have to choose between fillers and Botox injections? Botox can target dynamic wrinkles — think: crow’s feet, forehead wrinkles, eyebrow furrows — while your lip fillers can enhance your lips.
Together, fillers and Botox can help you achieve your desired look.
Lip fillers originated in 1906, when surgeons first tried using liquid paraffin. We’ve come a long way since that first filler, and now most lip fillers contain hyaluronic acid, a substance that already naturally occurs in your skin.
Hyaluronic acid attracts water, which means it can add volume while maintaining a soft, natural feel.
Another advantage — and unlike silicone lip augmentation — is that hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be dissolved if necessary.
Many people assume lip filler is only for creating bigger lips. However, filler can also help:
For many people, these refinements make just as much of a difference as added fullness.
Your lips won’t necessarily look like the final result immediately after your treatment. Some swelling, tenderness, and minor bruising are common during the first few days.
You can, however, reduce your risk of post-injection bruising by following all your pre-treatment instructions. This includes avoiding herbal supplements such as ginseng and fish oil that can thin your blood.
Most swelling improves significantly within a week, and that’s when your final results start to become more apparent.
This is one reason it's best not to schedule lip filler immediately before a major event.
Lip fillers gradually break down; they don’t last forever. Lip fillers like Juvéderm Volbella® XC and Juvéderm Ultra XC can last up to 12 months. Your metabolism can also influence that timeline.
Pro tip: Periodic touch-ups can help maintain your results.
Most lip filler appointments take less than an hour. Before your treatment, a topical numbing cream is applied to help maximize your comfort. Many Juvéderm fillers also contain lidocaine, which helps minimize discomfort during the injection.
If you’re new to fillers, you might wonder how much volume you need. One perk here is that lip filler can be built gradually.
Many first-timers start conservatively and add more filler later if desired. This approach often creates the most natural-looking outcome while allowing you to adjust to your new appearance.
Your appointment begins with a discussion about your goals and concerns. Dr. Kolansky first evaluates your facial features, lip shape, and overall balance before recommending a treatment plan.
His goal isn't to create someone else's lips; it's to enhance your natural features in a way that complements your face. Dr. Kolansky focuses on creating natural-looking, fuller lips that enhance your appearance without looking overdone.
Whether you're looking for subtle definition or a fuller pout, lip filler can be customized to your goals.
Schedule your consultation with Advanced Dermatology Surgery & Laser Center and learn whether lip filler is right for you. We can help you develop a treatment plan that’s tailored to your desired look.
Call 732-204-8311 or click here to schedule your next appointment.
