Lip fillers are injections that give the lips a fuller and plumper appearance. For the most part, many who undergo the procedure do it for looks. However, it can also restore lip size, correct lip shape, and even reduce wrinkles. Lip fillers are a popular alternative to more invasive surgical procedures like lip lifts and implants. Read on to learn how lip fillers can help you achieve your desired look with minimal recovery time.
Treatment Options
There are many different options when it comes to lip fillers, and not all of them accomplish the same results. Below you will find the most common fillers and how they can help improve the look of your lips.
JUVÉDERM®
JUVÉDERM is an injectable dermal filler. It is ideal for improving the looks of the lips and restoring facial contours. The dermal injection procedure takes between 15 and 60 minutes. JUVÉDERM comes in different brands for the lips. The three most common ones include:
- JUVÉDERM VOLBELLA® XC softens vertical lines around the lips and improves lip volume.
- JUVÉDERM Ultra XC plumps up the lips and smooths moderate to severe lines and wrinkles.
- JUVÉDERM VOLLURE® smooths smile lines and wrinkles around the mouth.
Restylane® Silk
Restylane filler contains hyaluronic acid and is an effective way to boost the look of your lips. It gives you natural-looking and silkier lips and is ideal for smoothing fine lines. With this subtle treatment option, you will notice visible improvement in the fullness of your upper and lower lips. Restylane Silk typically lasts between six and twelve months after the procedure.
Procedure Preparation and Aftercare
The FDA approves lip fillers for those aged 21 and above. It tends to have the best results for those in good physical health and those without active oral infections. Those that qualify should take the following precautions before the procedure:
- Avoid supplements
- Avoid blood thinning over-the-counter medications
- Avoid any anti-aging products
- Avoid waxing the lip area
Your doctor will fully explain what to expect before and after the procedure, including how to care for your lips during the healing process. Some of the common lip filler aftercare tips to consider include:
- Apply an ice pack to reduce inflammation
- Avoid pricking or applying pressure to the injection site
- Don’t apply lipstick or lip balm for at least 24 hours
- Refrain from kissing and puckering your lips
How Long Do Results Last?
The outcomes of lip fillers can last for a long time after recovery. Depending on the type of filler, the results can last between one and two years. All lip filler outcomes are not permanent, and you will require follow-up treatments to maintain your desired lip volume and appearance.
Final Thoughts
Lip fillers are considered a safe cosmetic procedure that is a minimally invasive way for you to improve the look of your lips. For the best results, consider the services of an experienced dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or cosmetic surgeon. They can also answer any further questions you have regarding this appearance-enhancing procedure.