There was a time when it seemed as though lip filler was one of those top secret under-the-radar treatments reserved for celebrities who, when asked about their newly ‘bee stung’ pout, would say, “Oh no, it’s just a good lip gloss and lots of beauty sleep.” Not anymore…
In recent years, much like other injectables (Botox, for example) the subject of lip filler is no longer ‘taboo’. With everyone from your bestie to your mom-in-law to your favourite influencers on The Gram sharing their before and after – and aesthetics doctors’ contact details – lip filler’s gone mainstream. And here’s what you need to know…
FIRST, LET’S FILL YOU IN ON WHAT LIP FILLER IS…
Lip fillers originally arrived on the aesthetics scene as a means to correct asymmetries and achieve a desired shape or restore fullness lost with age.
A gel substance that’s injected into the lips, lip filler works by binding water molecules within, creating a plumper look for patients with naturally thin, flat lips. The most common type of filler is Juvéderm Smile or Restylane Kysse, hyaluronic acid-based fillers, which hold up to 1000 times their molecular weight in water – boosting hydration while stimulating collagen production. The result is a smoother, plumper look.
NOT ALL LIP FILLERS ARE CREATED EQUAL
It’s important to be aware of the fact that lip fillers are structurally different, coming in different weights and ability to integrate into tissue. While Restylane Lido (NASHA filler) holds its shape as an implant, Juvéderm Smile and Resylane Kysse tends to spread a little bit more and how long lip filler lasts depends on the quantity injected, determined by an individual’s desired result. Those in the know say that you can expect the results of lip filler to last anywhere between six and 18 months – subject to the type of filler used, the amount injected and your particular metabolism.
LESS IS ALWAYS MORE
Social media and celebrity culture trends aside, the goal of lip filler is to achieve a natural, youthful looking result that has people saying things like, “You’re looking so fresh and rested, what’s your secret? Is that a new lipstick?” not “Wow, I see you got your lips done!” While it may be tempting to ask that your injector over-injects so that the results last longer, we strongly suggest that you opt for regular injecting over time to achieve fabulously plump but natural looking lips.
NON-INVASIVE DOESN’T MEAN PAIN-FREE
Probably the most commonly asked question when it comes to lip filler is “Does it hurt?” The honest answer is… yes. Not so much during the procedure, but afterwards.
An experienced injector will take all the necessary steps to make the experience as comfortable as possible, applying a topical cream to numb your lips during the procedure. Once the numbing has taken effect, a small, thin needle is used to inject the filler into various parts of the lips at a depth of about 2.5mm. The injecting usually takes anywhere from five to ten minutes, during which a patient may experience some eye-watering irritation and a pinching sensation.
Depending on the individual, lips can become swollen, painful or feel bruised for up to a week after being injected. To speed up healing and reduce discomfort, it’s important to take steps to reduce the inflammation by applying a cold compress regularly for at least the 72 hours following your appointment.
BE PREPARED TO HEAR THE WORD ‘NO’.
Even if you really have your heart set on a reality star pout it’s really important to do your homework and listen to an experienced injector’s advice. A qualified injector will be able to tell you what will and won’t work for your face and your lips, and will be able to manage your expectations.
Industry experts agree, respecting and enhancing the lip shape you were born with always delivers the most beautiful and natural-looking results. The goal is to look genetically blessed and really good for your age, not to look fake, over-filled. The ‘duck lips’ look is not something any reputable injector will agree to as, besides the obvious ‘not a good look’ factor, irresponsible injecting in the lip area can lead to long-term – and sometimes medically dangerous – complications.
IT TAKES TWO WEEKS TO SEE REAL RESULTS
Did you know that the majority of the post-lip injection photos you see on social media are often taken right after the procedure? Sometimes, if you look really closely, you can still see the fresh needle marks. It’s important to mention this because how your lips look straight after being injected bears little or no resemblance to what your lips will look like two weeks after injections. So, if you do opt for lip filler, don’t compare your real, long-term results with the fake one in your social media feed.
As always, if you’re curious about an aesthetics treatment or procedure that’s trending, be sure to chat to any one of our Doctors at any one of our 18 Skin Renewal branches nationwide. If lip filler is the next stop on your skincare journey, we’ll be sure to ensure that you reach by destination beautifully – not a ‘duck lip’ or ‘trout pout’ in sight!