If you have thin lips and want a quick, safe, and easy way to enhance them, then lip fillers are what you’re looking for. The procedure involves injecting a dermal filer product into the lip area. Quite understandably many first-time patients are nervous about the procedure, so we’ve put together some answers to the typical questions that we get asked.
Is the Procedure Painful?
In general, no. The needles used are extremely thin. Your practitioner will apply a numbing cream beforehand and some ice afterward; together these will greatly reduce any pain or discomfort. Your lips are a particularly sensitive part of the body, so it’s normal that you’ll feel some sensation during the procedure. Let your practitioner know if you have particular concerns about this. In most cases, anticipation is the worst part.
How Quickly Are Changes Seen?
Dermal fillers don’t always provide instant results – it may be necessary to have more than one procedure to achieve the final results you want. It also pays to have reasonable expectations. Some patients have expectations that may not be achievable. Lips can be modified to be plumper, but fundamental changes to their shape may not be achievable. Again, this is an area that your practitioner should spend time discussing with you beforehand.
Can Natural Results be Achieved, and How Long do They Last?
This depends greatly on the experience and skill of your practitioner. There are a large number of different dermal filler products available, including several specifically formulated to provide the smooth, natural texture that is a hallmark of the lips. Your practitioner will probably steer you towards Restylane Kiss or Volbella for lips filler.
The results of dermal fillers are not permanent; they normally last for anywhere between a year to 18 months, depending on your metabolism and lifestyle. You may need periodic touch-ups to maintain the best results.
What Side-Effects Should One Expect?
It’s quite normal to experience minor bruising after the procedure. Sometimes some bruising can develop a day or two afterward; typically it lasts at most five to seven days.
Minor swelling is also a common result. This side effect is normally gone in a few days, but can also sometimes last for as long as two weeks after treatment.
You may notice that your lips feel strange after treatment – this is quite common, and you should definitely factor this into your expectations. Generally allow a week or two for the full results of your treatment to become apparent and for this feeling to dissipate.
Given the likelihood of some side effects developing, it’s prudent to take this into account when scheduling your procedure.
Pay Attention to Preparation and Post-Procedure Instructions
Your practitioner will advise you to avoid several medications and vitamins prior to treatment; it’s important to follow this advice to avoid unnecessary complications and achieve the best results. Similarly, they will advise you to avoid situations where your new lips could be damaged afterward, such as exposure to hot liquids or strenuous physical exercise.
Your Laser Skin Care
Your Laser Skin Care practitioners are medically qualified and experienced in providing a large range of dermal filler products. We can provide expert advice on the best ways to address your particular situation. We also have extensive experience with a wide variety of other non-invasive cosmetic procedures and can help you choose the safest, most effective, and most cost-effective way to achieve your cosmetic goals. Call us at (323) 525-1516 to schedule a free consultation, or visit us online for more information.
