Lip Filler: What You Need to Know for a Natural and Balanced Look

What Is Lip Filler?

Lip filler is an application that aims to support lip volume, shape or contour by injecting suitable filler materials into the lip area. Today, one of the most frequently used filler types for the lips is hyaluronic acid based fillers.

Hyaluronic acid is a molecule that is also naturally present in the skin and is known for its water binding capacity. When used in the lip area it may provide volume, a hydrated appearance and contour support. However, which product is used, in what amount and with which technique must always be determined by a physician assessment.

Is Lip Filler Only for Enlarging the Lips?

No. Although an increase in volume is the first thing that comes to mind, the application is not performed only for lip enlargement. For many people the actual goal is a more balanced, more clearly contoured or more rested lip appearance.

Lip filler may be planned to balance the ratio between the upper and lower lip, to make the lip border more defined, to support volume loss that develops with age, or to soften the appearance of fine lines around the lips.

How Is Natural Lip Filler Planned?

In natural lip filler, the most important point is that the lips remain in harmony with the rest of the face. The lips are not assessed alone; the nose, chin, smile line, upper-to-lower lip ratio and the overall expression of the face are considered together.

Adding a great deal of volume does not mean a more beautiful result on every face. For some people supporting only the lip contour is sufficient, while for others volume and symmetry may be planned together. For this reason, a personalised application is the basis of a natural appearance.

For Which Purposes May Lip Filler Be Considered?

Who May Lip Filler Be Suitable For?

Lip filler may be considered in suitable individuals who wish to support lip volume, define the lip contour, balance mild asymmetry or reduce age related volume loss.

However, it may not be suitable for everyone. If there is an active infection, a cold sore episode, certain allergic conditions, pregnancy, breastfeeding or specific conditions related to a person's medical history, the procedure may be postponed or may not be recommended. The most accurate decision must be made through a physician assessment.

What Should Be Considered Before Lip Filler?

Before lip filler it is important that the person clearly describes their expectations. Expectations such as more full, more defined, more symmetrical or very natural require different planning.

If lip filler has been performed previously, the product used, the timing of the procedure and the condition of the existing filler should be evaluated. In addition, a history of cold sores, medications used, bleeding tendency or allergy history must always be shared.

How Does the Lip Filler Process Proceed?

Before the procedure, lip anatomy, facial proportions and the person's expectations are evaluated. The product to be used, the amount and the application technique are then determined. Because the lip area is sensitive, local anaesthetic creams or suitable methods may be preferred to increase comfort.

During the application not only volume, but also the lip border, the philtrum line, the cupid's bow, the upper-to-lower lip balance and smile dynamics should be taken into account. After the procedure, temporary swelling, tenderness or bruising may be seen on the lips.

What Should Be Considered After Lip Filler?

• Pressure should not be applied to the lip area in the first hours.
• The lips should not be massaged unless recommended by the physician.
• In the early period, the physician's recommendations regarding very hot drinks, sauna and intense exercise should be followed.
• It should be known that swelling and tenderness of the lips may be temporary.
• If there is a history of cold sores, the physician should be informed before and after the procedure.
• In situations such as unexpected pain, colour change, excessive swelling or suspected circulatory problems, a physician should be consulted immediately.

How Long Does Lip Filler Last?

The longevity of lip filler may vary according to the structure of the product used, the person's metabolism, lip mobility, the amount applied and the person's lifestyle habits. Because the lip area is a mobile region, longevity may differ from person to person.

In first applications, more controlled and natural planning may be preferred. If necessary, symmetry, the settling of swelling and the person's expectations are reassessed at a follow-up appointment.

The Most Common Mistakes in Lip Filler

• Focusing only on increasing volume without evaluating facial proportions
• Using too much product in a single session and disturbing natural lip anatomy
• Making the upper lip too prominent compared with the lower lip
• Over sharpening the lip contour and creating an artificial appearance
• Performing a new application without evaluating previous fillers
• Having the application performed by non-physicians or by unreliable practitioners

Is Lip Filler Safe?

Lip filler is a medical injection procedure. For this reason the reliability of the product used, the practitioner's command of facial and vascular anatomy, sterile conditions and the management of possible complications are very important.

The lip area requires attention in terms of vascular structure. Although rare, undesirable situations such as vascular occlusion, tissue damage, infection or allergic reaction may occur. Therefore the procedure must be performed in an appropriate medical setting by a competent physician.