Before getting lip filler, patients need to know what to expect before, during, and after treatment. This includes knowing what to avoid doing before injections, how to manage injection discomfort, the healing timeline, and what to do if lip filler migrates. This blog from Magnolia Medical Aesthetics breaks down four common questions patients have before their first lip filler appointment.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or cosmetic procedure.
Lip filler has become one of the most requested non-surgical cosmetic treatments in recent years, often used to restore youthful volume or to contour a desired lip shape. The injections are extremely safe when performed by a qualified medical professional, but many patients still have concerns about what to expect before, during, and after a lip filler appointment. To help you prepare for your appointment, we’ve answered 4 of the top questions we hear from patients.
1. Do I need to avoid anything before my appointment?
For best results, avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements, exfoliants, and hair removal around the lips.
Blood thinners include:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen
- Alcohol
- Fish oil
- Vitamin E
Avoid blood thinners for at least 5 days prior to your appointment. Always talk to your physician before stopping any prescribed medications.
Exfoliants include:
- Glycolic acid
- Tretinoin
- Retinoids
Don’t apply these products around your lips for 2-3 days before your appointment. Exfoliants thin the skin and increase the chance of irritation and bruising after lip fillers.
Hair removal includes:
- Waxing
- Depilatory creams
- Bleaching
- Tweezing
These can all cause trauma to the skin’s surface, triggering an inflammatory reaction. This can cause increased swelling and discomfort after lip filler injections.
2. Are lip filler injections painful or uncomfortable?
Most patients say the sensation is more uncomfortable than painful; some describe a sharp pinch followed by dull pressure as the fillers are injected. If you’re concerned about the discomfort, talk to your provider about using a topical anesthetic before your injections. Some dermal fillers, including Restylane and Juvederm, contain lidocaine to help minimize discomfort.
3. How long does it take to see results?
You’ll notice a difference in shape and volume immediately after your treatment. For the first 1 – 3 days, your lips will be swollen and tender. There may be small lumps or asymmetries; this is a normal part of the healing process. By the end of the first week, any swelling and bruising should noticeably decrease, and your lips will look softer and more natural. By four weeks post-treatment, the dermal fillers will have fully integrated into your tissue. Your results at this time should look natural and impactful, with increased volume and smoothness.
4. Does lip filler migrate?
Sometimes, dermal fillers spread beyond the injection site and create lumps or puffiness in unintended places. This is usually the result of overfilling a treatment area or poor injection technique, and why it’s important to see an experienced injector with a strong medical background and a balanced approach to cosmetic procedures.
Fortunately, dermal filler migration can be treated with an enzyme injection that dissolves the filler inside your tissue.
Choose A Licensed Doctor For Your Next Lip Filler Treatment
At Magnolia Medical Aesthetics, all injections are performed by a licensed physician with advanced knowledge of facial anatomy. Dr. Chan has been practicing in Upstate South Carolina since 2011 and has helped countless patients achieve balanced results safely. To get started, schedule an appointment today or contact us with any questions. We look forward to helping you create a beauty plan to meet your goals!