Lip Fillers

Question 1

How do dermal lip fillers work?

Accepted Answer

Dermal Fillers are made from Hyaluronic Acid which is a naturally occurring sugar chain molecule found in the skin and soft tissue. It attracts and holds water in the skin giving it not only hydration and volume but also cushioning whilst supporting collagen and elastin fibres. Dermal fillers are manufactured in a variety of ways to produce a clear, sterile gel for injection through the skin. In the UK there are around 160 brands available due to weak regulation, however not all the brands are the same and legitimate brands are not available over the internet but only to registered professionals.

Dermal filler treatment involves a gel-like substance being injected into the lips with a cannula or needle. The filler plumps the lips from the inside out and works by boosting the skin’s supply of hyaluronic acid. Dermal fillers revitalise and adds volume to the lips, instantly increasing lip size and volume.

Question 2

Are Lip Fillers painful?

Accepted Answer

A topical numbing cream will be applied 10-15 minutes beforehand and once ready, the area will be thoroughly cleansed. The procedure itself usually takes around 10 minutes. You will be reassured throughout and always have the option to have a break should you feel you need it. Most patients are surprised at how quick and comfortable the procedure is.

Question 3

Are there Potential side effects of lip fillers?

Accepted Answer

The lips are a highly vascular area and therefore you must expect some bruising and swelling, although this differs widely between patients. There are other, less common potential complications that you must be aware of before having lip fillers which is why it is crucial that you attend a consultation first for these to be discussed with you. The chances of these occurring can depend on a number of factors such as age, medical status and injection technique but can include; delayed onset nodules, abscess, infection, and blocking of blood vessels (vascular occlusion) potentially leading to tissue necrosis and in very rare cases, blindness.

Question 4

Am I a candidate?

Accepted Answer

You may not able to have dermal filler treatment if;

You are pregnant or breastfeeding
You are suffering from an infection near the treated area or if you are generally unwell on the day (even a cold!)
If you have had a previous allergic reaction to any dermal filler or local anaesthetic
If you have an autoimmune disorder
If you have a bleeding disorder
If you suffer from a poorly controlled medical condition
If you are currently on, or have recently completed a course of Roaccutane
You are taking medication that can thing the blood such as warfarin, aspirin etc.
You suffer from cold sores- injectable treatments, especially in the lips can trigger the virus so please discuss this with your practitioner who may prescribe you medication to take to prevent this occurring.

Question 5

How many treatments do I need?

Accepted Answer

Lip fillers work instantly, best results will be seen after 4 weeks when the filler has settled and integrated with the tissues. The length of time they take to be broken down in the body can depend on an individual’s metabolism, their skin condition and whether they spend time in the sun or do high intensity exercise etc. But on average, lip fillers will last around 9-12 months, However, additional filler treatment may be required to achieve desired results. We do advise lip fillers are done slowly and gradually and we will never exceed what we feel is a safe, realistic amount to maintain a natural appearance.