Lip fillers, or injectable lip augmentation, have quickly become one of the most-requested cosmetic procedures. Thanks in part to endorsement from celebrities like Kylie Jenner, more and more individuals are deciding to undergo this safe, effective, and zero-downtime procedure.

So, is lip augmentation right for you? Keep reading to learn all about lip fillers, including what you can expect during and after the procedure.

Lip Fillers- What are they?

Lip fillers or lip augmentation is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that adds volume and structure to lips to make them plumper and more defined.

Some of the most popular lip fillers, like Restylane and Juvederm, are comprised of hyaluronic acid, which is a substance that is naturally produced by the body.

Hyaluronic acid is also known for its cushioning and lubricating qualities and is readily accepted and easily metabolized by the body. Therefore, it’s an excellent volumizing agent for soft and natural lips.

What is the procedure like?

Most patients undergoing lip fillers find the procedure to be quick and fairly comfortable. In fact, it can be performed in approximately 15 minutes, and a topical anesthetic can be applied to the lips before the treatment. Plus, many lip fillers contain a small amount of the numbing agent lidocaine to keep patients from feeling much, if any, pain.

The procedure is typically completed in these 5 steps:

1. Makeup is removed.

2. Before photos are taken of the lips and mouth.

3. Lips and injection sites are cleansed and numbed to increase sterility and improve patient comfort.

4. Hyaluronic acid filler is injected, massaged, and results are assessed.

5. Ice pack is provided to help decrease subsequent swelling.

Once the treatment has been completed, patients are free to resume their usual activities and go about their day as they normally would. However, the lips will be swollen and may present with some minor bruising for 48-72 hours. Consequently, it’s best not to undergo lip fillers right before a big event or special occasion.

Lip filler results – How soon can they be noted? Are they permanent? Are they reversible?

Lip fillers provide immediate plumping and hydrating effects to the lips, and most patients are pleased to note a fuller pout right away. These effects typically last 6-12 months, depending on how quickly each person’s body metabolizes the filler product.

Nevertheless, if a patient would prefer to reverse the effects of a hyaluronic acid lip filler, an enzyme called hyaluronidase can effectively and efficiency dissolve the product.

If you are considering lip fillers, please call our office today to schedule a comprehensive consultation with one of our highly skilled and talented injectors.