Lip Filler

Over the past 5 years, lip filler has been one of the most popular cosmetic procedures both for younger and older patients. 

So what is there to know about lip filler?

Does it hurt?  Yes, it does, but a little numbing placed on the lips 30 minutes prior to the appointment can make a significant difference to the sensation.

Does it bruise?  Yes, it can.  We prefer needle injection of the lips over microcannula, however, microcannula is our preferred method for areas other than the lips.  The small injections could leave a pinpoint bruise to the lips. 

Do they swell?  For the first 1-3 days, you may notice visible swelling.  There could be minor swelling up to 2 weeks.

Can you exercise after lip filler? Patients may return to exercise the next day.  

Anything to minimize bruising?  Stopping aspirin, ibuprofen or fish oil 10 days prior to filler can minimize bruising.  Arnica Montana is a supplement you can take orally and it is found in the arthritis section at the drug store.  The sublingual pills are to be taken 4 days before and gels can be used topically, post injection.

Anything to minimize swelling?  Eating fresh pineapple which has Bromelain, can help minimize swelling and icepacks (5 min every 30 minutes) can also help.

Is one syringe enough?  If you have a very small lip (either upper or lower), we start with one syringe and you may need to return in 6 weeks for an additional syringe.  The total volume is based on the baseline lip size and what the desired end result would be.  It is not a good idea to place more than one syringe at any given appointment as smaller lips can display migration if too much is added too quickly.