Lip fillers are a non-surgical cosmetic treatment to help patients achieve fuller, plumper lips. These injectable treatments also fill lines and wrinkles and restore volume to lips that have lost their shape and structure as part of the ageing process. Lip fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a natural sugar protein that hydrates the skin by retaining water and providing structural support to skin tissues.

What kind of results can I expect?

There are various dermal filler products which can be used, depending on desired result. Whether it is enhanced volume, hydration, improved definition, softer lip lines or just a smoother lip body, we can tailor each lip treatment to suit your individual needs.

What kind of downtime is there? What side effects can I expect?

The lip area is incredibly delicate so some swelling and bruising may be present immediately after treatment. This usually subsides within 3-5 days. Integration of the filler takes approximately 4 weeks, at this stage you will know how your lips have settled.

Is it painful?

We aim to make your experience as comfortable as possible. Prior to your treatment topical anaesthetic is applied to the lip area. Our filler brands have lidocaine in the formulation to give extra comfort during your treatment.

Precautions prior to treatment

If you have a cold sore or are prone to cold sores. You may need to take oral antivirals. We will not treat while there is an active break out.

Schedule your appointment 2 weeks prior to any events.

Avoid anticoagulants 48 hours before and after treatments to avoid bruising.

What are the risks?

The decision to use fillers is extremely personal. You will have to decide if the benefits will achieve your goals and if the risks and potential complications of dermal fillers are acceptable.

Severe complications from dermal fillers are uncommon. Potential risks vary depending on the specific filler used and the relative permanence of the filler substance and include:

  • Acne-like skin eruptions

  • Asymmetry

  • Bleeding from the injection site

  • Bruising

  • Damage to the skin that results in a wound and possible scarring

  • Infection at the injection site

  • Lumps

  • Palpability of the filler under the surface of the skin

  • Skin necrosis (ulceration or loss of skin from disruption of blood flow)

  • Skin rash with itching

  • Skin redness

  • Swelling

  • Under- or over-correction of wrinkles

In very rare cases, the filler may accidentally be injected into your blood vessels instead of under your skin. This can block blood flow. What happens if your blood flow is blocked will vary depending on where the block is. If your skin is affected, you might have skin loss or wounds. If your eye is affected, you might lose your eyesight or go blind.

These risks and others will be fully discussed prior to your consent.

It is important that you address all your questions directly with your cosmetic injector, including those complications requiring urgent care. Although good results are expected from your procedure, there is no guarantee that you will be satisfied with your results. Because significant complications can occur from dermal filler injections, it is important to be in the care of a board certified plastic surgeon who understands the risks and is trained and prepared to deal with any complications that may occur.

In some situations, it may not be possible to achieve optimal results with a single procedure. Most fillers do dissipate over time. To maintain your correction, you will need to consider repeating the injection process at intervals.

After receiving a dermal filler procedure, self-care is very important. Your injector will give you information about aftercare, and these tips will cover how to manage pain, clean the area, and treat the area. Generally, it is important to keep the area of skin clean (try to avoid heavy creams and makeup while the skin is healing), avoid heat and high temperatures which will irritate the skin and may cause inflammation, avoid touching or rubbing the skin to reduce irritation and swelling, and seek medical assistance if you experience any unusual symptoms. If you’re experiencing some pain, it is best to take paracetamol. Avoid any medication which may impact on your blood—for example, ibuprofen.

Some more specific instructions include:

  • Avoid exercise for 24–48 hours

  • Avoid direct UV exposure

  • Use a soothing, antiseptic cream such as Bepanthen to treat the area

  • Sleep on your back for the first few nights to relieve pressure on the area and avoid disturbing the filler

  • Do not consume alcohol in the first 24 hours to avoid thinning the blood

  • Do not use AHAs, BHAs, Retinol, or Vitamin C for 24 hours after the procedure

  • Avoid laser treatments, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels for 2 weeks following the procedure

  • If there’s anything you’re unsure about, consult your cosmetic injector