Lip injections, also known as lip augmentation, can enhance lips by filling in smile lines and giving the mouth a plumper appearance. Furthermore, they define the vermilion border (that thin line that separates pink parts of your lips from surrounding skin) for added definition and depth. If your lips have always been naturally thin or are experiencing thinning due to aging processes such as collagen deposition, fillers may be beneficial in alleviating these symptoms.
Lip fillers typically consist of hyaluronic acid, an organic sugar found in your body. This gel form adds temporary volume and can last between six months and a year with regular touch-ups to maintain youthfulness.
Hyaluronic acid is generally safe for most patients, though your doctor may ask you to disclose any allergies (such as atopic dermatitis) prior to your procedure.
Your dermal injector will examine your lips and suggest where to inject filler based on symmetry, shape, and desired outcome. They can use a smaller needle to inject directly into the lips for greater precision and comfort, or they can place it between layers of skin for additional comfort.
Some fillers or lip injections are designed with special technology for softer and more precise results. Examples include Restylane Silk, which has a lower viscosity which minimizes the risk of lumpiness or ridges.
Before your appointment, it is recommended that you take a few days off from anticoagulants such as aspirin, alcohol and blood thinners. These drugs have been known to cause bruising so it’s best to wait at least one week before discontinuing these medications.
Your doctor or our med spa can usually apply a topical anesthetic to your lips before the injections, which will numb any feelings during the procedure, though it may cause a pinching sensation or even cause your eyes to water in some cases.
Additionally, you should refrain from taking NSAIDs or anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for approximately one week before your appointment. Furthermore, avoid using any abrasives or makeup before the treatment.
Lip injections when administered by a trained injector are generally safe. The most common side effects include bruising, swelling and soreness that usually subside within 24 to 72 hours or several weeks depending on the individual patient.
To reduce bruising, apply ice to the area of your lip that was treated. Additionally, taking Arnica montana may help alleviate some of the pain and inflammation.
After your treatment, your lips may remain sore and swollen for several days. To reduce inflammation and speed up recovery time, use cold compresses on your lips to decrease pain and keep them hydrated.
The good news is that lip injections are a fast and minimally invasive procedure that can be performed on most people. However, it’s best to consult with a board-certified doctor first for the most accurate results.
In certain situations, your doctor or lip med spa consultant can combine lip augmentation with other procedures for a more balanced profile. These treatments could include chin implants, cheek lifts or jawline contouring to achieve a more refined facial shape.
If you would like to schedule an appointment for lip injections and you are in the Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, and San Tan Valley area of Phoenix contact Timeless at Tiffany’s Medspa