The media has made us all believe that fillers only result in oversized duck lips or goofy chipmunk cheeks. This could not be further from the truth! Dermal lip filler is one of my favorite filler treatments to perform because of the overwhelming number of clients who are happy with the results of their treatment.
Many people do not know that lip fillers actually help restore lost volume in thinner lips and give them a more hydrated appearance. They also can fill in the fine lines around the mouth like the ones you may see when you pucker up.
With all the dermal fillers out there, it is important to know what to expect before getting injected, as well as how to care for your lips after your treatment. At Couture Med Spa, we carry high-grade Juvéderm and Restylane fillers and love to educate our clients before they commit to any of our treatments. Here’s what we share with them:
WHAT TO KNOW
Prior to any filler injection, especially lip fillers, discuss with your provider any desires and fears you may have. It is important to us that feel as comfortable as possible and feel prepared for the result of the treatment. Prior to your injections, we suggest that you discontinue using any blood-thinning products such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents like ibuprofen and/or naproxen. Additionally, some vitamins (such as Vitamin D and E as well as fish oil) have been known to increase bruising after filler injections. Another factor that people do not consider is alcohol consumption the day prior to the treatment. This may increase the likelihood of bruising as it is known to thin the blood.
Some of my clients have said that taking arnica tablets several days prior to the treatment has helped them with side-effects post-treatment. If you are unfamiliar with arnica, it is a homeopathic anti-swelling anti-bruising product. Also, it is important that you inform us (and your injector) if you have a history of herpes simplex virus, otherwise known as cold sores or fever blister. There may be some medicine you need to take to reduce your risk of spreading the infection. Lastly, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding– fillers will have to wait!
WHAT TO EXPECT
Those who receive filler injections may experience a mild to moderate stinging sensation during the treatment. At Couture Med Spa, we use a topical numbing cream prior to the treatment to assist with any discomfort you may experience. Afterward, there may be some mild soreness, but that is usually alleviated by simply applying an ice pack. Some common side-effects that people experience after treatment include bruising, swelling, and redness in the treated area. Arnica gel, provided by Couture Med Spa, may help ease the swelling and bruising. Also, remember that avoiding any blood-thinning products can help.
The side-effects associated with fillers will generally resolve in time and differ for every individual. Most people have improved symptoms within a couple of days. Generally, after two weeks, all the side-effects will have resolved completely, and this will be the finished look from your filler treatment.
WHAT TO AVOID
For the first 48 hours after treatment, it’s important to avoid the following activities:
- Strenuous activity
- Saunas
- Excessive heat/sun exposure
- Drinking alcoholic beverages
- Drinking through a straw or making “kiss” motions with your mouth
You may also want to consider sleeping on your back if you are able to avoid excessive pressure on the area because the product has not fully settled and has a risk of molding. Dental work, massages, and lasers on the treated area should also be avoided for two weeks.
GET READY FOR THE RESULTS
After your injections, the swelling and bruising will completely settle around the two-week mark. Dermal fillers will last different for everyone and can be anywhere from 4 months to 1 year depending on many factors, such as the area being injected. The lips are a mobile part of our face, so we tend to go through the product quicker in this area. Also, your metabolism and activity level may impact the duration of your fillers.
Some fear that their skin will be loose once the filler wears off and this is not true. Your skin will go back to its pre-injected state once the product wears off. It’s also important to note that the process is very slow, so it will not be a drastic difference to those around you. Most people who get their lips injected absolutely love it. Remember: bigger is not always better. We want to enhance your natural beauty and make you feel excited to buy that new shade of lipstick you’ve always wanted!
