Lip filler cosmetic procedure is becoming increasingly popular. Big celebrities are using it more and more and so have other ‘not-so-famous’ started too. Patients have a lot of questions about this procedure, that we will cover in this FAQ article.
Is a lip filler procedure painful?
This is probably the MOST common question. Many people see and read truly terrible and horrific stories about lip filler procedures that didn’t turn out the way they were supposed to.
If you’re getting a lip filler procedure done by a licensed and experienced cosmetic surgeon, you most likely won’t feel a thing and the results will be amazing. Naturally, you will feel a sharp sensation when the needle punctures the skin (which is totally normal) and everything after that is totally manageable.
Experienced cosmetic surgeons have the necessary knowledge and follow proper procedures and advanced injection techniques in order to make sure that you’re comfortable. Some of them might even use numbing creams or local anesthetics so that the process can be as painless as possible.
For patients that have low pain tolerance, we recommend that they speak with an aesthetician who will recommend how to best prepare for this procedure and make it as painless as possible.
How long will the effects last?
Dermal fillers are not only used in lip augmentation but also in some other enhancements to reduce signs of aging. How long will the effects of lip fillers be visible…well that mostly depends on the type of filler your doctor uses and of course how skillful he/she is. Most cosmetic surgeons use one (or more) of the following fillers:
- Hyaluronic Acid or HLA – This is a natural lip filler and it should last for at least six months
- Poly-L-lactic acid or PLLA – This is a synthetic filler and it is considered to provide semi-permanent results. It can last up to two years without any need for retouching.
- Calcium Hydroxypatite – This is a biosynthetic dermal filler and can last for up to 18 months
Will my kissing be affected by lip fillers?
Many patients are worried that their kissing will be affected by the lip filler procedure. In the first 24-48 hours after the procedure, your lips will be sore and swollen so you shouldn’t be concerned with kissing. Furthermore, it is highly recommended that you do not touch your lips or make out until the fillers settle.
Until they settle, fillers can move to other parts of your face so any pressure post-treatment might cause a shift, bruising, lumpiness and swelling.
Once the lip fillers have settled, your lips will feel and work the way they did before the procedure. Since these fillers mimic the contour, softness and sensitivity of your lips, the person you kiss won’t be able to tell the difference.
How much does a lip filler procedure cost?
The cost of a lip filler procedure mostly depends on what type of lip filler are you getting and where you get it. Treatment fees can range between $500 and $2,000. Of course, you might find affordable options but you must be aware that affordable options aren’t so good and you can end up with poor results that are visually unpleasing.
Straws and hot beverages
Many patients wonder if they can use straws or drink hot beverages after their lip filler procedure. You can, however many cosmetic surgery experts will advise that you DON’T. After the procedure, your lips will be numb and pretty swollen so you won’t have your old sensation back just yet. This then creates a risk of hurting yourself (if you drink a hot beverage) or even embarrass yourself.
How much just I inject?
There is no predetermined amount of how much lip filler should you inject into your lips. Just like with many other cosmetic surgeries or procedures, it’s about personal approach and what effect you’d like to achieve. But in most cases, cosmetic surgeons would recommend that you start with a small amount and if you would like a fuller effect, inject an additional dose. That’s a more rational approach than injecting a huge amount all at once and realizing that is not what you wanted.
Alcohol and lip fillers
This is a definite NO-GO. Cosmetic surgeons recommend that you DON’T drink any alcohol before or after your lip filler procedure. This is because alcohol contains chemicals for thinning your blood and can make you susceptible to bruising or bleeding complications.
Make-up and lip fillers
Patients often wonder how soon can they put on make-up (lipstick to be more precise) after their lip filler procedure. They want to accentuate their lips even more with some bright colors. However, as mentioned above, in a few days after your procedure, we strongly recommend that you don’t put any pressure on your lips until the fillers have time to settle. 3-4 days after the procedure you will be able to apply make-up. But even then, be extra careful and don’t put too much pressure on your lips.
How to heal faster after lip filler procedure?
Once your lip filler procedure is done, your cosmetic surgeon will hand you a list of useful tips and tricks on how to make the most of your post-treatment healing. These usually include:
- To stay hydrated and drink plenty of water
- Apply ice packs on your lips but without putting pressure on them
- Refrain from blood-thinning medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin
- Don’t smoke and stay away from second-hand smoke
- For a time being, you will have to stop eating spicy food, fast food or junk food
- Avoid any strenuous activities involving heavy lifting or sweating
Hopefully this FAQ will answer some of your questions regarding lip fillers. If we didn’t cover some, make sure to contact us and schedule an appointment with Dr Kotoske.
