The demand for non-invasive cosmetic procedures has sharply increased in the UK over the years. According to a survey, over 59% of the respondents out of 51,000  in the UK considered non-invasive procedures such as dermal or lip fillers, comparable to routine procedures such as getting a manicure or haircut. If you are also concerned about your facial aesthetic defects that make you look old, such as shrunken lips, you can get rid of them with lip fillers. But if you’re wondering about how long lip fillers last or how they work, then this blog is for you. Continue reading to learn everything you need to know about lip filler treatment.

What Is The Lip Filler Treatment?

According to the Cleveland Clinic, lip fillers are injectable substances that improve facial aesthetics by adding volume to one’s lips. They are a type of dermal filler which are used for removing wrinkles and creases on the skin. Lip fillers are made of different materials.

What Is A Lip Filler Made Of?

Lip fillers are mostly made of hyaluronic acid (HA). It is a naturally occurring, FDA-approved substance in the skin. The best thing about HA is that it is well-accepted by the body with minimal risk of allergy or adverse reactions. Moreover, in case of a rare adverse reaction to HA, your doctor can easily dissolve it with an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

How Long Does A Typical Lip Augmentation Procedure Take?

Lip filler treatment is straightforward and takes less than an hour. A typical lip filler procedure can take around 15 minutes for the injection to be administered. However, if a numbing cream is used to ensure a pain-free experience, the patient may have to wait for about 20 minutes for the area to become numb, followed by the injection.

How Long Do Fillers Last?

Hyaluronic acid fillers are not permanent. Their effect fades over time, requiring re-treatment. According to the Cleveland Clinic, lip fillers slowly fade over 12 – 18 months after injection. So, you may require routine touch-up treatment to continue enjoying the youthful appearance caused by the lip fillers.

Can My Lip Filler Last Over A Year?

Lip fillers typically last between 6 and 12 months. However, their lifetime can be increased or decreased based on various factors, such as the patient’s age, the type and quality of the filler, and the injection technique. With proper aftercare, it may be possible to extend the life of your lip fillers beyond a year.

Do Some Lip Fillers Last Forever?

No, there is no currently available lip filler material that can last a lifetime. Most lip fillers exert their effect for up to 12 months. This is why people who undergo lip or dermal filler treatment often require re-treatment to continue looking young and attractive.

Is Lip Filler Safe?

Like all medical treatments and procedures, lip fillers are safe. However, their safety depends on various factors such as the quality of the filler used and the injection technique. So, lip filler treatment can be considered safe if it is performed by an experienced and skilled medical or dental professional with appropriate training.

What Should I Expect During And After A Facial Filler Treatment?

Before administering the filler injection, your doctor or dentist may numb the lips using a numbing cream. The cream typically takes around 20 minutes to take effect. Afterwards, the doctor uses a thin needle to administer a very small amount – around 1 ml – of filler into each lip. The injection is not inserted very deeply. Typically, the depth of the injection is around 2,5 mm into the lips. The entire procedure may take around 30 minutes to complete.

After the injection, your healthcare provider will gently massage your lips to ensure optimal absorption. They will ask you to wait for another 15 minutes to observe any adverse effects. Afterwards,  you can drive yourself back home or to your office. Your lips may remain swollen for the next 24 – 48 hours, even up to a week.

Here are a few things you should do as routine lip filler treatment aftercare:

• Apply an ice pack for 10 minutes to reduce the swelling and discomfort
• Avoid touching or puckering your lips
• Avoid wearing lipstick or lip balm for at least 24 hours after the procedure
• Avoid strenuous activity or exercise for the next 24 hours
• Ensure to remain hydrated

What Foods Should I Avoid After Getting Lip Fillers/Injections?

It is best to wait until the effect of anaesthesia has worn off before eating anything. You should also avoid smoking or drinking anything with a straw. One should also avoid spicy foods and alcoholic beverages as they may interfere with the healing.

Are There Any Long-Term Side Effects Of Lip Fillers?

Lip fillers are generally considered safe, provided the procedure is performed by an experienced healthcare professional with appropriate training. However, in rare cases, they may cause long-term side effects such as unwanted tissue changes, chronic inflammation, and asymmetry. Again, these side effects can be avoided by visiting an experienced doctor or dentist for this treatment.

If you’re looking for the best lip filler treatment in Dublin, your best option is to visit Pembroke Dental Ballsbridge. Our highly trained and experienced healthcare professionals will ensure that you enjoy the best aesthetic outcome from your lip filler treatment. Request a free consultation today and let us take care of the rest.