Lip Filler Process
If you’ve ever considered lip filler but felt unsure about what to expect, you’re not alone! Lip filler is one of the most popular aesthetic treatments, but many people aren’t sure what to expect from the process. Whether you’re looking for a subtle enhancement or fuller, more defined lips, this guide will walk you through everything - what lip filler is, who makes a good candidate, the benefits, the treatment process, and aftercare tips.
What Is Lip Filler?
Lip filler is a popular aesthetic treatment that uses dermal fillers to add volume, shape, and definition to the lips. Most lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA) - a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps keep skin hydrated and plump! Hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary, lasting between 6 to 12 months, depending on factors like metabolism, lifestyle, and the specific filler used. The best part? HA fillers can be dissolved if needed, making them a low-commitment option for anyone wanting to test the waters.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Lip Filler?
Lip fillers are great for almost anyone looking to enhance their lips, but the ideal candidate:
-Wants fuller lips while maintaining a natural look
-Has naturally thin lips or has lost volume due to aging
-Wants to correct asymmetry or an uneven lip shape
-Is in good overall health (no active infections or cold sores).
-Has realistic expectations - lip filler enhances, but doesn’t completely change, your lips!
If you have allergies to lidocaine or filler ingredients, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have certain medical conditions, lip fillers may not be the best option for you. Our expert nurse practitioners will consult with you before we proceed with any treatment.
The Benefits of Lip Filler:
So why do clients love lip filler so much? Here are some of the key benefits:
-Enhanced Volume & Shape: Whether you’re looking for a subtle, natural enhancement or a fuller, more defined pout, our approach prioritizes balance and harmony - never overdone. Our skilled injectors specialize in natural-looking results, shaping the lips to enhance symmetry, refine definition, and complement your unique facial features.
-Hydration Boost: Hyaluronic acid (HA), the main ingredient in most lip fillers, is known for its ability to retain moisture. This means that even if you opt for minimal volume, your lips will appear smoother, softer, and more hydrated, making this a great option for anyone with naturally dry or chapped lips.
-Smooths Lip Lines & Wrinkles: Over time, lips lose collagen and elasticity, leading to fine lines, vertical lip lines, and loss of definition. Lip fillers help smooth out these lines, restoring a more youthful and refreshed look while keeping your lips soft and natural.
-Quick & Convenient: The entire treatment takes about 30 minutes, making it an easy lunchtime treatment! There’s no need for extensive downtime, so you can get back to your daily activities with minimal interruption. Swelling and bruising may occur but typically subside within a few days!
-Customizable Results: Whether you want just a subtle boost or a more defined, fuller look, we always focus on natural, balanced results that enhance -not overpower- your features. Our skilled injectors customize the amount of filler to suit your unique lips. We also prefer a gradual approach, allowing you to build your results over multiple appointments for the most natural outcome.
-Reversible: One of the biggest advantages of hyaluronic acid fillers is that they’re not permanent. If you’re unhappy with the results or want to return to your natural lips, an enzyme called hyaluronidase can dissolve the filler within minutes. This makes lip filler a low-risk, flexible option for those wanting to experiment with their look.
The Lip Filler Treatment Process:
Your journey starts with a one-on-one consultation with our Defy injector who specializes in natural-looking enhancements. During this time, they’ll:
-Discuss your lip goals and desired shape - whether it’s subtle definition, added hydration, or increased volume.
-Review your medical history and any potential concerns to ensure the treatment is safe for you
-Recommend the best filler option based on your natural lip shape, facial proportions, and lifestyle
This is also a great time to bring inspiration photos, but keep in mind that everyone’s lips are unique - what looks amazing on one person may not be the best fit for your facial structure. Our goal is always to create balanced, natural-looking results that enhance your features!
Step 2: Numbing
Before the treatment begins, a topical numbing cream is applied to your lips to minimize discomfort. Many hyaluronic acid fillers also contain lidocaine, a mild anesthetic, which helps make the treatment even more comfortable. The numbing process takes about 10-15 minutes, ensuring that the experience is as painless as possible. Most clients describe the sensation as a slight pinch or pressure rather than pain.
Step 3: Injections
Once numb, your injector will carefully place small amounts of filler in strategic areas of the lips using a fine needle or a blunt-tip cannula (a more advanced technique that reduces bruising and swelling). The injection areas typically include:
-Cupid’s bow: Enhancing this area adds structure and definition.
-Body of the lips: Creates volume and plumpness while keeping the lips soft and natural.
-Lip border: Helps refine the shape and prevent lipstick from bleeding into fine lines.
Our approach is always conservative - we build volume gradually and avoid overfilling to maintain a soft, natural appearance. The entire treatment takes about 20-30 minutes, and you’ll see immediate results, though swelling will make the lips look slightly fuller for the first few days.
Step 4: Massage & Final Adjustments
After the injections are complete, your provider will gently massage the lips to ensure the filler is evenly distributed and that there are no lumps or uneven areas. This step helps create a smooth, natural look and ensures that the product settles properly. Next, they’ll carefully assess symmetry and make any final adjustments as needed. Since our focus is always on balanced, natural results, we take the time to refine the shape and make sure your lips complement your facial proportions!
Step 5: Immediate Aftercare
Once the treatment is finished, your Defy provider will go over personalized aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and the best possible results. You may notice some mild swelling or bruising, which is completely normal and usually resolves within a few days.
To help minimize swelling and discomfort, we recommend:
-Applying a cold compress (wrapped in a cloth) to reduce swelling
-Staying hydrated and keeping the lips moisturized
-Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and strenuous exercise for the first 24-48 hours
Following these aftercare steps will help your lips heal beautifully and ensure your results look soft, smooth, and naturally enhanced.
How Long Does Lip Filler Last?
The longevity of lip filler depends on a few key factors, but in general, hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers last between 6 to 12 months before gradually breaking down.
Several things can affect how long your results last:
Your metabolism: If you have a faster metabolism, your body will break down the filler more quickly, meaning you may need touch-ups sooner.
The amount of filler used: A smaller amount of filler tends to fade faster, while a larger initial treatment may last longer.
Your lifestyle: Activities like drinking through straws, or biting your lips and excessive sun exposure can cause the filler to break down more quickly.
To maintain your results, most clients schedule a touch-up every 6 to 9 months to keep their lips looking naturally full and balanced.
Whether you're interested in filler, Botox/Dysport, collagen-boosting skin treatments, or want to learn more about our Defy Annual Membership (the perfect choice for those who want to transform their skin without the price tag over the course of a year!), we’d love to see you in our Bethesda medical spa soon.