Gorgeous, full lips—it’s something we all want, but not something we’re all fortunate enough to be born with. Is there anything that can be done about thinner, smaller lips?

The answer is…yes! Lip augmentation is one of the best-kept secrets in the beauty world. Lip fillers are an effective and easy way to create fuller, stunning lips.

Lip filler is a non-surgical treatment administered by a trained doctor and can be used for both fuller lips or to reverse volume loss in the lips, brought on by aging or lifestyle.

You may be tempted by the idea of fuller lips, but how does lip filler work? There’s a lot to think about when it comes to dermal fillers, but it may be exactly what you’re looking for.

To learn more about lip dermal fillers, keep reading to find our comprehensive guide to lip augmentation.

What Is Lip Augmentation?

Lip augmentation, also known as lip fillers, is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure, performed by a doctor or trained nurse. Lip fillers are administered by injection and used to add volume to the lips.

As we age, our lips naturally lose volume. Or, perhaps you just weren’t born with the full lips you’ve always wanted. In that case, you might be interested in plumping up your lips with filler.

They can be used to create a more symmetrical face, add a more glamorous look, and remove volume loss caused by age or smoking. Or, just naturally enhance your look. Both men and women love lip augmentation for its instant results and convenience.

You may also be interested in changing the shape of your lips, allowing more teeth to be visible or to correct downturned lips, you may want to consider a lip lift. Patients can have both a lip lift and lip filler, through two separate treatments.

What Is Dermal Filler?

Lip fillers are performed via the injection of dermal filler into your lips. In the past, collagen was often used for this, but now, we use hyaluronic acid.

There are quite a few FDA-approved hyaluronic acids, and the exact product used will vary, depending on your budget and preferred results.

Although hyaluronic acid sounds serious, it is actually a chemical found naturally throughout your body in connective tissue. Our hyaluronic acid depletes in our body as we age, which is why we tend to lose volume in our lips and face over time.

By injecting products derived from a synthetic hyaluronic acid into our lips, we add volume and help the lips store moisture. This helps them look full and youthful.

Since it’s found naturally in our bodies,  it is  a safe and effective treatment option for almost everyone.

Dermal filler is also thought to increase collagen production in our skin over time, which can help our skin regenerate and look fresher over time.

Many patients are confused by dermal fillers and Botox. Botox® is actually a muscle relaxant, used to temporarily stop movement in facial muscles to remove wrinkles, while dermal filler does not remove wrinkles—it adds volume.

However, many patients opt to receive both dermal filler and muscle relaxers with the same visit, as together they can create a younger, more beautiful face. Talk to your doctor if you are interested in learning more.

Why Are Lip Fillers So Popular?

Lip fillers are popular with many, as they are a simple procedure that requires minimal downtime and no surgery. They are both long-lasting, but not permanent, and are an affordable luxury that millions of patients love.

Fillers are subtle, so it won’t be obvious to anyone around you that you’ve had work done. However, patients often find after that they receive comments saying they look more refreshed or relaxed, as fillers create a beautiful look without attracting too much attention.

You can also use lip filler not only to add volume but to remove fine lines or deep wrinkles in the lips, helping you look younger.

If you do want to add more lip filler over time, you can create more of the Hollywood glamour look, so dermal filler is a versatile tool for creating the look you want.

In fact, it’s likely that your friends or family members have enjoyed lip fillers, but you weren’t aware! It’s possible some of your favorite celebrities also enjoy the subtle glamour of lip enhancements.

The Lip Filler Process—What to Expect

After your initial consultation, you can then book an appointment for your filler treatment.  Typically, the consultation and appointment can be done on the same day!

First, your doctor will clean the face and lips and may apply a topical pain reliever, such as a cream, to help make the process more comfortable. They will then talk you through the process and explain where they will be injecting.

Then, the dermal filler will be injected into a few areas of the lips. The doctor may need to use their hands to gently massage the filler in the lips, ensuring it is in the right place.

The results of your treatment will be available instantly, although swelling is likely over the next few hours.

On your treatment day, you can also use injectable filler to add volume to other areas of the face at the same time. Popular areas of the face to treat include cheeks, nasolabial folds, and deep lines within the skin, often around the mouth.

It’s normal to feel nervous during the process, but your doctor will talk you through everything, so there’s no need to worry.

Aftercare

After your treatment is complete, your doctor will let you know exactly how to care for your new, fuller lips. Generally, it’s best to avoid intense exercise, saunas, or hot tubs for the first 24 hours after treatment, avoid alcohol, and drink plenty of water.

Also, avoid a hot shower or bath immediately after your treatment. Your lips may be slightly sore, but this will quickly subside.

To help ease any swelling, you may also want to gently apply an ice pack for a few minutes at a time, which can help with pain as well. You may find it more comfortable to sleep on your back, with your head slightly elevated.

Generally, most patients like to go home and take it easy for the rest of the day after fillers, and then return to their normal activities the following day. If you do experience any severe pain or discomfort, contact your treatment center right away.

Is the Process Painful?

Often, patients worry about the pain associated with dermal fillers, but the procedure is usually easy to tolerate. With the use of local numbing creams or anesthetic, along with ice, most of the pain is removed.

Most lip filler also contains lidocaine, a local anesthetic, which will instantly help reduce pain after the first injection. You may feel a slight pinch or sting, then a bit of pressure.

The procedure is over in a matter of minutes. If you’re nervous about the pain, talk to your doctor in advance and they may be able to recommend additional ways to reduce the pain.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Lip Fillers?

In your initial consultation with your doctor, either virtual or in-person, your doctor will assess your medical history along with your desired results, and can then recommend if lip fillers are right for you.

The good news is that most everyone can enjoy the benefit of fillers.

Patients who have a history of lupus, oral herpes, and issues with blood clotting may not be good candidates for lip fillers. You’ll also want to let your doctor know if you have any allergies, along with any prescription medication you’re taking.

If you do take painkillers or blood-thinning medication, you may need to temporarily stop taking these medications, but only if you’ve received permission from your primary physician.

How Long Will Dermal Fillers Last?

Dermal fillers in the lip are long-lasting, generally lasting between 6-12 months, depending on your body and metabolism, along with the exact product used. Filler is administered one ml at a time, so if you’d like larger lips after your first treatment, book your next appointment sooner.

Once you get the lips to the size where you’re happy, maintenance treatments around every 12 months will help you keep your look.

How Much Do Lip Fillers Cost?

Dermal filler cost will vary per patient. Cost is dependent based on which product you have and the amount of product needed.

In your consultation, talk to your doctor about the results you’re looking for, as they should be able to estimate how much product is needed to achieve that result.

If you are on a budget, your doctor can advise how you can achieve results within your price range. You may qualify for financing options as well.

Contact Us for Beautiful, Plump Lips

With the benefits of lip augmentation, you can create gorgeous, full lips, creating the look you’ve always wanted. Now that you know more about the lip filler process, are you ready to try it out for yourself?

If so, Atlanta Face & Body is here to help. If you’re in the Atlanta area and considering lip fillers, look no further! We are conveniently located just off I-75 and I-285, designed with your ultimate convenience and comfort in mind.

Our state-of-the-art facilities and expert staff are all here to create your ultimate look, helping you achieve beautiful, subtle, and refreshed results. Our caring doctors and staff always put your well-being first and have designed our center with this in mind.

If you’re ready to book a consultation or to learn more about lip fillers, contact us today. Our friendly, expert team look forward to hearing from you and helping you get picture-perfect lips.