What are lip fillers?
Lip fillers are dermal injections around the lip area that can give the lips a fuller appearance, more volume, and a more attractive shape.
Available for use on the upper and lower lips, lip fillers can correct unevenness, asymmetry, and signs of aging. Like other cosmetic procedures, lip fillers can be customized to fit a patient’s specific needs, with one-time injections and longer-term treatment plans available to help achieve the desired results.
Some of the more common brands of lip fillers used in these injections include Juvéderm®, Radiesse®, and Restylane®.
What are lip fillers made of and how do they work?
Generally, lip fillers are derived from hyaluronic acid (HA), a lubricating substance naturally present in the skin. This composition, which gives lip fillers a gel-like quality, makes them a low-risk option for lip augmentation because:
- HA fillers are typically well received by the body, with low risk of allergic reaction.
- Patients have the option to use an enzyme to dissolve the lip fillers if the results don’t meet their expectations or if they want to return to their original lip shape and structure.
These dermal fillers can be highly effective at reshaping and augmenting the lips due to the hydrophilic properties of the HA-based filler substance, meaning the filler attracts and retains water to deliver a full, pouty look and beautiful results.
Consequently, some lip filler patients may be able to achieve an even better lip shape and appearance than they had previously, all while refreshing the look and youthful appearance of their faces.
Who is a good candidate for lip fillers?
Good candidates for lip fillers are patients who are at least 21, who are generally in good health, and who:
- Do not have interfering allergies: Although fillers are formulated from natural substances to minimize the risk of allergic reactions, some patients may still have allergies to numbing creams or other substances. That is why it is so crucial to share your medical history with physicians or injection providers before getting lip fillers.
- Have realistic expectations about the results: Lip fillers can have lasting effects, but the results are not intended to stay forever. In fact, lip fillers usually need to be maintained every 6 to 16 months or so to retain optimal appearance.
Patients who may not be good candidates for lip fillers include those with certain medical conditions, like bleeding disorders or neurological issues. Additionally, please be aware that:
- Lip fillers can be safe for use in patients who have lip implants and/or who have already undergone other facial procedures.
- It is best to consult a plastic surgeon to determine your candidacy and evaluate whether lip fillers may be a viable option for achieving the results you want.
To find out if you are a good candidate for lip fillers Chicago aestheticians and injectors at Michael Horn Plastic Surgery & Med Spa can address that and any other questions you have during a consultation - they can also go over alternatives for you. Call or contact us today!
Why are lip fillers used?
Lip filler injections are used to enlarge and reshape the lips while smoothing skin and addressing certain signs of age. As a non-surgical option for augmenting the lips, lip fillers can be a popular choice for those who want:
- Reduction or elimination of facial skin aging conditions, such as lines and wrinkles
- Fuller, younger-looking lips
- A way to alter the contour and plumpness of lips without the use of implants
- A more youthful smile without undergoing facial surgery
While some patients opt for lip fillers alone, others include them in broader treatment plans, like mommy makeovers.
