Lip fillers are great overall. Also known as lip augmentation, it is a cosmetic procedure that aims to give your lips a fuller and plumper appearance. The process typically involves injecting a dermal filler into the lips and around the mouth.
The Procedure and What to Expect
During the treatment, a healthcare professional will inject a substance, often hyaluronic acid, into your lips. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the body, which helps increase the volume of your lips.
The procedure is usually quick, takes about 15 to 30 minutes, and can be done under local anaesthesia. After the treatment, patients can expect some swelling, tenderness, and possible bruising, but these effects typically subside within a few days.
Duration of Lip Fillers
The effects of lip fillers can last anywhere from six months to over a year, depending on the type of filler used and how your body metabolizes it. However, it’s essential to note that lip fillers are not a permanent solution for fuller lips and will require regular maintenance.
Factors Affecting the Longevity of Lip Fillers
Several factors can affect how long your lip fillers last. These include the type of filler used, the amount injected, your body’s metabolism, lifestyle factors like smoking and sun exposure, and how much movement occurs in the lip area.
- Type of Filler Used: Different fillers have different lifespans. For instance, hyaluronic acid-based fillers tend to last between six months to a year.
- Amount Injected: The volume of filler injected can also impact how long the results last. A larger amount may last longer, but it’s important to balance this with achieving a natural look.
- Metabolism: Everyone’s body metabolizes substances at a different rate. If your body metabolizes the filler quickly, the effects might not last as long.
- Lifestyle Factors: Habits like smoking or excessive sun exposure can shorten the duration of the fillers. These factors can accelerate the body’s metabolism of the filler.
- Area of Treatment: Areas of the face with more movement, like the lips, might see a faster breakdown of fillers due to the constant use.
- Individual’s Age: Older individuals may find that their fillers don’t last as long because their bodies might metabolize substances quicker.
- Skin Condition: The condition of your skin can also affect longevity. Healthier skin often holds onto fillers longer than unhealthy or damaged skin.
- Quality of Aftercare: Following the aftercare instructions provided by your aesthetic doctor can help extend the life of your fillers. This might include avoiding strenuous exercise for a short period after treatment or massaging the area.
Common Misconceptions and Maintenance
A common misconception is that once you get lip fillers, your lips will remain permanently full. This is not the case – lip fillers gradually dissolve over time, and your lips will return to their original shape unless you continue with treatments.
To maintain the results, most patients need a touch-up every six to nine months. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and using lip products with SPF can help extend the life of your lip fillers.
Choosing a Professional
When considering lip fillers, it’s crucial to choose an experienced and qualified professional to perform the procedure. This ensures that the treatment is carried out safely and that you achieve the best possible results.
While the effects of lip fillers are not permanent, with the right care and maintenance, they can provide a desirable, fuller lip appearance for a considerable period. Always consult with a trusted professional for personalized advice.
