Lip filler is a popular cosmetic treatment; for a good reason. They are non-invasive, can easily be done in a single visit to our doctor’s office, and are easy to maintain. However, people often ask us the same questions regarding lip fillers, so this article will help you understand the entire process of the procedure and how it can help enhance your beauty.
Lip fillers, also known as lip augmentation, are a cosmetic procedure that uses injectable hyaluronic acid to add volume to the lips. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the body that works by binding water molecules to its structure so that when applied to the skin, it holds onto moisture. As a result, the fillers will not only plump up the lips but give the patient a more youthful appearance and a more defined mouth shape.
Patients must be at least 18 years of age to receive lip fillers. If a patient is underage, they should consult a dermatologist about their problem areas or insecurities. This way, we can develop a personalized plan to help them overcome these less-than-desirable areas. In addition, teenagers’ bodies are still changing and expanding; therefore, by the time they come of age, their lips can already have the desired shape, volume, and velocity. If not, we will revisit the lip filler treatment at the appropriate time.
The lip filler process is usually quick, within 30 minutes. First, the plastic surgeon will clean and then numb the patient’s lips with a topical anesthetic, then perform multiple injections. The number of injections the surgeon performs depends on the size of the patient’s natural lips and their goal. After the injection, the surgeon will massage the patient’s lips to remove any lumps to ensure the filler does not create pockets after settling. Finally, the surgeon will wipe off any excess liquid or bleeding that may have occurred during the injections. The patient will be able to see the results immediately and discuss with the surgeon if any changes need to be made.
Recovery is as smooth as the injection process. Immediately following the appointment, patients will be able to wear makeup, including lipstick or lipgloss. They will also be able to drive home, as the numbing agent used during the procedure will have no effect on their cognitive functions.
It is important for the patient to not pick at or massage their lips within the first three days of their recovery. Doing so can seriously impact how the hyaluronic acid settles into the lips. The patient will experience itching, swelling, and slight discoloration on or around the lips for the first few days, but it should not last longer than two weeks. Though rare, if a patient experience side effects such as excessive itching, soreness, or difficulty speaking in the days following their appointment, contact our office so that we may advise.
The above symptoms are common and expected; however, while discoloration can be covered with makeup, some patients want immediate relief from the swelling and itching. To reduce swelling and help the healing process, we encourage patients to use a cold compress as needed. A cold compress can be an ice pack wrapped in a cloth and then applied to the skin to provide relief. In addition, patients can take an over-the-counter inflammation or pain reducer such as acetaminophen,
Since the body absorbs hyaluronic acid, the filler will wear off over time. Therefore, the result’s longevity depends on how much filler was injected and the patient’s body. However, most results last between 6 to 18 months, but touch-up sessions may be required between that time to keep the patient’s desired volume and shape.
We do not recommend smoking after receiving lip filler. Smoking dehydrates the skin, directly combatting the purpose of hyaluronic acid. In addition, it can prevent the body from healing efficiently and quickly by reducing the blood flow, making it possible for bruising on the face to last longer than normal. Smoking can also produce signs of premature aging, causing the skin around the patient’s lips to sag.
We hope this article has answered some of your questions about lip fillers. For more information regarding the procedure or to schedule an appointment, contact our Schaumburg office by calling (847) 429-3185 today.
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