Here's everything you should "know before you go" to have lip filler done!
P.S. - if you're ever in San Antonio, TX and interested in cosmetic procedures- feel free to reach out to make an appointment!! You can always find me on my Instagram (@texasattiffanys) and I now offer an aesthetic based nursing page (@nursetiffanyaesthetics) for even more info & photos. -Tiffany Rosenberg, RN
How much does it hurt?
--By far, the most frequently asked question. The simple answer: it really depends! Most practices provide you with a coating of numbing cream agent, it's usually a solution of topical lidocaine (a safe medication) to desensitize your feeling in the lips. It works within 10-20 minutes, and lasts for about an hour or so. After the numbing cream is removed, your lips feel "funny" to say the least. They'll be numb, and you'll more than likely drool (LOL!) just kidding, but some of my patients from time to time do. :) Once the injections start, you should feel less and less in theory, as most of the popular fillers contain lidocaine within them. Some additional comfort measures that you can ask your provider about include the use of a cold spray (it sprays and freezes over the area temporarily), and a stress ball. Beauty is PAIN & YOU are STRONG! Lip filler is sooo worth the temporary discomfort (if any), and shouldn't hold you back from going through with it! Most of my patients state that they can occasionally feel a "pinch" if anything, but nothing major. Others don't feel anything at all! Once the injections are over and your numbing wears off, you may experience some pain after the fact- take Tylenol if needed and try icing them.
How much do lip fillers usually cost?
--You can expect to spend anywhere from $300-700 on a single syringe of lip filler. When looking for a provider, I caution you against visiting the location offering the "cheapest" prices. Good quality work comes with a small price increase. You should always do research on the provider prior to being injected. A great way to research is by analyzing their social media work, asking for their experience and personal before and after photos, and if you know anyone who's been injected by them- ask questions! Having that trust with your provider is worth every single penny you'll spend. There will always be "flash sales" and "discounted pricing" so I would tell you to turn on your notifications and frequently check out your providers.
Are there any side effects from lip filler?
--The two most common side effects from lip filler would definitely be 1)swelling and 2) bruising
Never fear, both can be easily treated.
How do I treat bruising after getting lip filler?
To get rid of bruising: I always recommend my patients to use Arnica gel (sold at most convenient and grocery stores over the counter, no prescription needed). Arnica, or sometimes known as "Arni-care" works to dissolve the blood from underneath the skin surface that forms the bruise, which significantly decreases your healing time. Arnica is generally a clear gel substance that you'll want to apply directly onto the bruised sites. It should not be used in place of a moisturizer, always keep your lips hydrated with formal chapstick. I personally bruise very easily and have been using arnica for years, it really came in handy when I had my lips done the first time.
Can I ice my lips after getting lip filler?
Yes, please do!
For swelling, ice and/or cold compresses are going to be your BEST FRIEND. I recommend using those little gel cold packs that we used to take in our lunches to school! They are super soft and mold to your lips. You can use it as much or as little as you want, the ice helps bring the swelling down quicker and can help with pain, too!
How long do lip fillers usually last?
--Typically, lip filler can last anywhere from 7-12 months, as stated by most popular manufacturers. I will say that some people may metabolize the filler more quickly due to a more active lifestyle, but it should still last for quite a few months.
How much lip filler do I need?
--This really depends on your lip goals and what you would like your outcome to be. I treat patients with anywhere from half a syringe to 3+ syringes of filler. If you're new to lip filler, here's some background. Filler of any kind is sold by the syringe (or half syringe in some offices). For the majority of manufacturers a whole syringe is 1mL which may sound small, but remember we are talking about adding that full mL to your lips, a smaller area. I always recommend starting small and building up. Most of my patients return for a second syringe after a few months of the first one. It's completely customizable though and varies based on your desired look. To better assist you, please show photos of your lip goals to me or your injector so that we can determine how many syringes to achieve that look. :)
How often do I need to get more lip filler?
--Again, this really does depend on the look that you are going for, keep in mind you can change that goal at any point once you've started getting lip injections. However, once you have achieved your lip goals for the time being, you'll probably want to return in about 7 months or so for a touch up.
Is there anything else I can do besides filler for a more full lip?
--A neurotoxin (aka Botox, or other brand) can be injected into the muscle surrounding your lips for a more "flipped" appearance that we call the "Lip Flip". It does not add volume, but it will create the illusion of a slightly larger lip.
Can I use chapstick like normal after getting lip filler?
--Yes, please do, You'll want to moisturize your lips more now that you have an increase in volume as this leads to an increase in dryness of your lips. Personally, I say no roll up chapsticks initially. I prefer something like Vaseline or Aquaphor that you'll apply to finger first so that you avoid manipulating the filler. Just for the first few days!
Can I still have lip filler if I'm prone to cold sore outbreaks, herpes, and/or fever blisters?
--Absolutely, a medication will be called in for you depending on your medical history! This will help to minimize your reaction and treat it as well.
What do I need to avoid immediately after getting lip filler?
--AVOID STRAWS, hard foods such as corn on the cob, or hard apples for at least a week after your injections. This may sound like overkill, but you definitely want to protect your investment. Sometimes when we do these things we can manipulate the placement of the filler which may give you an undesired result.
What can i expect after the numbing wears off?
--everyone is different, you may experience pain associated with the stretching of the lips compensating for an increase in volume due to filler, your lips might feel sore (mine did!)
How will my lips feel after lip filler is inside?
--be aware that you will now (potentially) feel "something" inside your lips- that would be the filler. Immediately after injection it feels like a firmness underneath the skin, however that does go down with time and have a more natural feel to it as the product settles. Sometimes, little "lumps" may form on the inside of your lip that can be felt with your tongue or fingers.
Is there anything I can do to help the "lumps" go down?
--you can always massage your lips gently, it is best to discuss this with your injector first, but I always show my patients how to roll their lips out to massage any areas where the filler may potentially collect. This can be done by using one hand, placing the thumb on the inner "wet" part of your lip, while your pointer finger lays on the outer "dry" part of your lip and gently rolls the area where product is felt. The "lumps" should slowly come down. If you experience this, you may want to consider letting your injector know, as they might like you to return for a follow up. Most "lumps" will dissolve within two weeks of the initial injection. You can always rub the "lump" area a little more forcefully if you feel comfortable, or ask your injector.
I still have "lumps" and it's been two weeks
--In this case, you should speak with your injector so that he/she may assess. Sometimes, "lumps" may stick around for a variety of reasons such as the additional volume is not supported by your natural lip shape/size, changing your lip filler brand/product to a different one, or improper injection technique.
What can be done in the clinic for "lumps"?
--There is a medication that can be injected to dissolve an area that contains a "lump". It is an enzyme that dissolves the components of filler.
I don't like my new lips, what do i do?!
--never fear! It is usually best to wait at least a week to assess your new lip appearance, If you are unhappy, your injector is there for you, and can work with you to determine a plan. In some cases, you may require more syringes to achieve certain looks, or, maybe lip filler just wasn't for you after all. Whatever the case may be, lip filler can be easily dissolved by an injector. A medication is injected to dissolve the lip filler inside, and usually works fairly quickly. Speak with your provider for more details.
Still have questions? Feel free to send me a message, comment below, or get a hold of me so that I can update this FAQ sheet and help others!
I can't wait to see what your new lips look like!