Megan McNeil, APRN, shares what you should know about lip fillers

Written by Megan McNeil, APRN, of the UK HealthCare Aesthetics Center.

Want fuller, more voluptuous lips? Lip fillers are the answer. This nonsurgical cosmetic procedure is a quick, relatively painless method that can leave you with a luscious new look.

Here’s what you need to know about the procedure, potential side effects and, of course, the results.

What are lip fillers made of?

Lip fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, which is a gel-like substance that naturally occurs in your body and helps lubricate your joints and eyes. Its main job is to retain moisture and draw in water. 

Most fillers also have lidocaine in them. That means a slight numbing effect will occur as the product is placed.

Is it beneficial to bring in a reference photo? 

Yes, it helps give me an idea of what you would like your lips to look like and if that is achievable and how long it will take to achieve it. 

Lips take time to build and change, and dramatic results take even more time and filler. I like to start slow and subtle and gradually build lips up to a point where we are both pleased with the outcome.

Does getting lip fillers hurt? 

Lip fillers don’t have to hurt, but they are sometimes a little uncomfortable. We can use a dental block – like what you might have gotten at the dentist – or topical numbing cream to blunt the pain response. 

Your practitioner will help you decide which is best for you. Most people tolerate lip fillers very well with topical numbing cream and ice.

How long does the procedure last? 

All in all about 45 minutes. We first talk about your goals and what is achievable based on your existing lip anatomy. Lips are tricky to do right and to do well, so I like to take my time and go slow to ensure we are both happy with the end result.

How soon can you see full results from the procedure? 

Results are immediate; however there will be swelling and possibly bruising in the first few days. 

Full results are typically seen in about two weeks once the swelling and bruising have gone away and the filler has integrated into your lip tissue.

Are there any side effects after the procedure? When do those go away? 

Swelling and bruising are the most common. Swelling typically lasts two to three days and can be improved with an over-the-counter antihistamine. When it occurs, bruising typically takes a week or so to resolve. 

You should avoid blood thinning medications before and after treatment as well as alcohol to help decrease your risk of bruising.

How long do the results last? 

Lip fillers typically last between six to nine months.

Learn more about the UK HealthCare Aesthetics Center and the services it offers by visiting our website or call 859-257-7171 to schedule an appointment.