Lip augmentation is one of the most popular and desired procedures. But before you go through with this procedure you may have some questions.
Below are 6 frequently asked questions about lip fillers injections that can help understand this procedure better.
1. What is lip augmentation?
Lip filler injections are a cosmetic procedure aimed to improve the appearance and volumize your lips. The most common filler used for lip augmentation is hyaluronic acid-based solutions. The most popular hyaluronic-based fillers for lip augmentation are Juvéderm, Juvéderm Ultra, Juvéderm Ultra Plus, Juvéderm Volbella, Restylane, and Restylane Silk.
Injecting hyaluronic filler in your lips can add a natural-looking and sexy volume. If your lips are asymmetrical, filler injection can help improve their appearance and make your lips symmetric. There are different doses of filler so the plastic surgeon can help choose the volume and shape that looks harmoniously with other features of your face.
2. How long do lip injections last?
It is impossible to tell when filler in your lips will dissolve because this depends on many factors. Things like metabolism, desired plumpness, and products used for lip augmentation can all affect the durability of filler in your lips. However, you can usually expect to run on one injection between six to nine months. For some people, the effect of filler can last for longer.
3. Do lip injections hurt?
Almost all hyaluronic acid-based lip fillers contain lidocaine. This is a numbing agent that decreases the pain. But you may feel the pain during the first injection before lidocaine is injected into your lips. The doctor may also use a topical numbing cream to reduce the pain associated with the injection.
4. What are the side effects and risks of lip filler injections?
Most people think lip filler injection is a fast and safe way to enhance the volume of the lips. But just like any minimally invasive procedure, lip injections can cause some side effects. Some of the common side effects include bleeding, swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness. These symptoms don’t cause serious physical discomfort and last only a few days.
More serious risks of lip filler injection include lip asymmetry, infections, lumps in the lips, tissue loss, and scarring. The risk of these complications is small if the procedure is performed by an experienced plastic surgeon. Call your doctor immediately if you experience extreme swelling or fever.
5. How much do lip injections cost?
The cost of lip filler injection differs depending on your location, the doctor’s experience, type of the procedure, and filler used for augmentation. Most people need one or two syringes to achieve a visible result. The average total price ranges between $500-$2000. You should also remember that most insurance companies don’t cover the expenses for cosmetic procedures or complications associated with cosmetic surgery.
6. How to prepare for lip filler injection?
While lip filler augmentation isn’t a serious invasive procedure, it still requires some preparation. At least one week before the procedure you need to stop using blood-thinning medications (aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen) and some supplements (primrose oil, garlic, ginseng, Vitamin E). To decrease the risk of complications, you need to avoid drinking alcohol 24 hours before the procedure or even earlier.
If you have a history of cold sores on your lips, it is recommended to start their prevention two days before the procedure. Lip filler injections often trigger flares of lip sores that can worsen the appearance of your lips and interfere with healing after augmentation.
