Lip fillers consist of a gel-like substance, typically made of hyaluronic acid, which is injected into the lips. Fillers can alter or enhance the shape and size of your lips to create a more desirable, youthful appearance. Depending on the amount of filler used, we can adjust the volume of your lips to meet your aesthetic goals.

What Every Lip Filler First-Timer Needs to Know

It’s necessary to be fully prepared when you attend your first filler appointment. While the process is quick and easy, it’s best to know what to expect. If you have any concerns, let us know before we start so we can help you feel more at ease.

Pain

The pain of receiving lip fillers is comparable to that of a flu shot. However, because your lips have over one million nerve endings and a mucus membrane, you should expect minor discomfort and a “pinching” sensation. If you know that you react badly to pain or needles, let us know so we can use numbing cream to make the procedure more comfortable.

Side Effects

While lip fillers don’t generally have severe side effects, there are some things you need to be aware of. Swelling, bruising, itching, and redness are common side effects of lip filler injections. They may occur at any time during the hours and days following the procedure. These side effects typically fade quickly, but if you are concerned about their severity or duration, call us and we’ll advise you.

Filler Integration

To avoid disappointment after your appointment, please note that lip fillers require time to settle properly. It can take two to four weeks for the swelling to subside completely. You might notice that your lips appear larger immediately after the procedure. However, your results will be considerably less pronounced when you are fully healed. Due to the healing period, we recommend that patients with upcoming events give themselves at least four to six weeks.

Follow-Ups

We prefer to schedule a follow-up appointment a few weeks after your injections to ensure that the fillers are settling correctly. The follow-up gives your provider a chance to assess your progress and make adjustments as needed. If you are unhappy with your results, you can also raise your concerns and ask any questions you may have at the follow-up appointment.

Results Duration

While lip fillers can have a very dramatic effect, they will not last forever. Typically, results last between six and twelve months. Many of our patients schedule top-up sessions immediately. In contrast, others prefer to let their lips return to normal to minimize the risk of permanent, unwanted changes, such as sagging.

Lip Filler Dos and Don’ts

Lip filler aftercare is relatively simple, and complications are exceedingly rare. There are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind to make the healing process as easy as possible. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you must leave your lips to heal without interference so that you can achieve the best possible results.

Do: Use an Ice Pack

Should you experience uncomfortable side effects after lip injections, you can use an ice pack or some ice cubes to relieve pain and manage swelling. Never apply a frozen object directly to your lips, as it can get stuck to the delicate skin. We recommend wrapping your cooling item in a thin towel or washcloth before applying. This way, you get the symptom relief without the damage.

Do: Take Tylenol

If you experience discomfort or pain after your fillers, you may take a dose of Tylenol or another generic acetaminophen. Do not take any blood-thinning medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen, because they can cause severe bruising after lip filler injections. While swelling may make it tempting to take anti-inflammatory drugs, they can do more harm than good.

Do: Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated before and after your filler appointment is a crucial part of the healing process. In general, drinking water supports numerous bodily functions, making it an essential habit to develop. Try to avoid straws and bottles with small openings that require you to purse your lips, as they can put unnecessary strain on your lips.

Don’t: Strenuous Exercise

Strenuous activities, such as weightlifting and intense cardio, increase blood flow and may exacerbate the swelling and bruising caused by filler injections. Do not participate in rigorous exercise for at least a week. However, if you’d like to take a walk or attend a gentle yoga class, you can resume after 24 hours. If you sweat or find yourself breathing heavily, it’s best to stop immediately and wait until the bruising has faded.

Don’t: Massage Your Lips

Rubbing, massaging, or excessively touching your freshly filled lips can cause the filler to move around and settle in unwanted areas. When washing your face, avoid pressure on or scrubbing your lips. All you need is warm water and a soft cloth to clean around your mouth. Too much pressure can also impact the volume of your lips.

Don’t: Smoke or Drink

Alcohol causes expansion of the blood vessels, increasing the risk of severe bruising. It’s best to avoid anything alcoholic for at least 24-72 hours. Smoking requires you to purse your lips around the vape or cigarette, putting unnecessary strain on your healing lips. We also recommend that you avoid recreational drugs for 72 hours after your filler injections, because you can injure your lips while under the influence.

The Path to Perfect Lips Starts Here

Lip fillers are an incredible, highly effective, non-surgical way to achieve plumper lips without the pain associated with traditional lip shaping treatments such as surgical lip lifts. If you’re interested in getting lip fillers for the first time, contact The Laser Cafe. Our qualified and experienced injectors provide a comfortable and low-stress environment, allowing you to relax completely. At our clinic, you will be surrounded by a team of passionate professionals dedicated to helping you look and feel your best.

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