Thinking about boosting that paltry pout? From exactly what they’re made of, to how long they’ll last, and the all-important ouch factor, here’s everything you need to know before getting lip fillers.

Finding the right injector is key

To find the practitioner that’s right for you, ask around for recommendations, look at reviews, and look to social media, where most injectors will post examples of their work. Also take note of what her, or his, lips look like. Chances are, if your injector is overdone, you might not walk out with the kind of subtle boost you’re after!

Allergy risk is low

Today’s lip fillers are made from Hyaluronic acid – a naturally occurring substance in the body found in skin, joints and synovial fluid. Because of this, the risk of filler-related allergy is low.

Lip fillers are reversible if you’re unhappy

If you’re not happy with your results, you can easily deflate your lips. A product called hyaluronidase is injected, containing an enzyme that breaks down the Hyaluronic Acid within 24 hours. However, there are some downsides. As hyaluronidase is derived from bovine sources, some people can be allergic to it. It also will temporarily break down native HA in the skin. It increases the cell permeability and spreads through the tissues relatively quickly.

They’ll last 6 months or more

Depending on the type of filler used, the particle size, and the amount of cross linking in the Hyaluronic Acid, your lip filler could last anywhere from 6-18 months! Those with a faster metabolism will also metabolise the HA faster, meaning they will need more frequent top ups.

They should feel quite natural

Your lush new lips should feel natural – they’ll feel firmer for the first week then soften to feel like natural tissue. Some products are firmer than others, but in certain people firmness is required to give structure and definition back to the lip.

It’s a super speedy treatment

In around 20 minutes, you’ll be out the door.

With minimal downtime

The downtime for lip fillers is minimal, especially if you follow the instructions of your injector to prevent swelling/ bruising. In the majority of cases, any swelling and tenderness will be resolved within 24-48 hours.

Lip fillers aren’t too painful

Topical anaesthetic cream is applied first, and there is local anaesthetic in the product. There is a small degree of discomfort and a sting upon injection, however the lips become numb relative quickly once a little product is injected into the area.

You need to avoid some things beforehand

To reduce the risk of bruising and/or swelling, it’s advisable you avoid fish oil, Vitamin E, anticoagulants, and certain Chinese herbs for a week before your treatment. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and 48 hours afterwards. Potential swelling can be reduced by applying ice after the treatment.

You should skip the lipstick for a bit afterwards

After your lip injections, avoid touching your lips too much, and do not apply makeup or lipstick to the area for 24 hours. Also, stay out of the sun and avoid hot drinks while the lips are still numb.

Infection is a rare, but possible side effect

In terms of more serious side effects, infection is a possibility, albeit a rare one. It’s therefore iportant to have clean hands when touching your lips after the treatment. Accidental injection into a blood vessel during the procedure can cause necrosis. Again, this is rare, and the filler would need to be dissolved in this case.

You might need more than one treatment

If you’re wanting significantly fuller lips, multiple treatments are needed, close together, to achieve your desired results.

Decided to go ahead with lip injections and enjoy a plumped pout? Call Privée Clinic today on 02 8041 5725.