If you've ever considered lip fillers or wondered about them, we've got you covered. This mini bible answers the 10 things you should know you should be thinking about before booking a lip filler appointment.
1. Find the right practitioner
Choosing a practitioner is the most important step, and despite all the horror stories you see about over-filled lips, an expert lip injector will have the knowledge and skill it takes to deliver beautiful results and will advise what is realistically possible in your case. Don't be fooled by cheap prices as the most important thing is ensuring that your practitioner prioritises your safety and has a good understanding of what they can achieve. It is always important to choose a reputable clinic and here at the Visualiste Face Clinic, we've got you covered! During your consultation we will advise the most suitable procedures for your particular face and lip shape.
2. What are the most common types of lip fillers?
In the past, collagen was a popular option for pouty lips but now the industry has moved on from permanent products which can be problematic if you change your mind in the future. Instead, hyaluronic acid (HA) is generally used nowadays. HA is a naturally occurring substance found in the body that holds up to 1,000 times its weight in water, making it a great plumping agent. It’s also temporary, and can be dissolved if needed - which is great in the case of a complication or if you really don't like the look following your lip augmentation. Popular types of hyaluronic acid lip fillers include EPTQ, Restylane and Juvederm.
3. How soon do you see lip filler results?
When you first have lip filler injections, your lips will likely be swollen for around the first 24 hours or so, so don't worry if at first glance they don't look how you expected them to look as they will likely change. If they do look bigger than expected straight after your treatment, this should go down as the swelling decreases. A good practitioner will generally ask you to come back for a post-treatment consultation to see how your lips are doing and to answer any questions or concerns you might have.
4. Are lip fillers safe?
A reputable practitioner will be using safe and respected brands that are approved for use in the UK and that meet all necessary safety standards. In the US, hyaluronic acid fillers are FDA-approved. Your practitioner will be able to advise on the best products to use, but as a rule of them it is highly advised not to visit a practitioner who pushes any sort of permanent product. HA fillers can be dissolved if needed, but it’s far more complicated to remove collagen lip fillers. Your practitioner's skill and level of training will have an impact on how safe the treatment is and how beautiful the results turn out. Lip augmentation can be dangerous in the wrong hands, and can lead to vascular occlusions, which is why it is important to visit a practitioner that has studied the anatomy of the face and has been trained in providing a professional service. Be careful about who you get your lip filler treatment done by because your face is way too precious to put in the hands of someone who doesn't know what they're doing.
5. Do lip fillers hurt?
Pain tolerance varies from person to person, but for a lot of people out there, lip fillers are more uncomfortable than painful. Practitioners use a variety of numbing techniques, as lips are a sensitive area. After the lip filler treatment, your lips will likely feel swollen and sore for a few days, which is totally normal.
6. How much filler should I have?
The amount of filler you have really depends on the needs and requirements according to your proportions of your face and what you are trying to achieve. A good practitioner will be able to advise the ideal amount to achieve your objectives and will be able to advise regarding what is realistically achievable. Generally, 0.5ml to 1 ml of filler is often plenty enough for your first treatment, giving you a natural look. If you then decide you want to go bigger, speak to your practitioner, who will advise you on the safest, most appropriate amount to give you that natural-looking pout. But be careful not to become a caricature of yourself. Less is definitely more - at least for the first appointment.
7. How long do lip fillers last?
Dermal fillers generally last around 6-10 months. But it really depends how long it takes for your body to metabolise the HA. For some people, this will be less than 6 months; for others, it will last longer.
8. How much do lip fillers cost?
The price of lip fillers will depend on where you go but on average, the price varies from around £200 -£500. A well-trained practitioner will likely be using a reputable, safe brand of lip filler such as EPTQ, Restylane or Juvederm.
9. What are the main lip filler side effects?
Lips are likely to feel quite swollen and sore for the first few days post-treatment. For some people, this feeling only lasts a day but, for others, it might take 2-3 days. Because HA is injected using a needle or cannula, bruising and redness is common, and you might also notice pin-prick marks. And, like with any treatment, there is the chance of an allergic reaction. Speak to your practitioner for a full list of side effects.
10. Is there anything I should or shouldn’t do before lip fillers?
About a week before having lip filler injections, avoid taking aspirin (of course, speak to your GP or practitioner if you are taking any medication that contains aspirin), ibuprofen, vitamin E and fish oil supplements, as these are natural blood thinners, which might cause you to bruise more. You can still take paracetamol in this time though. Alcohol is another no-no too. Don’t be tempted to have a tipple the night before as this can lead to bleeding and extra bruising.You should try and avoid exercise for the first 24 hours after the treatment. An ice pack can help with the swelling. If you happen to experience any pain afterwards, try taking paracetamol to ease it. If you find you have any prolonged or extreme bruising or blistering, or any other prolonged reactions, get in touch with your practitioner who will advise you on what to do.
Visualiste Face Clinic
Harley Street & Mayfair
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