Lip Fillers

Dermal filler injections are administered using a small needle or a cannula (a blunt ended tube) or both. They are pre-packaged in a box containing sterile needles, product labels and a preloaded syringe. The syringe contains a clear gel-like substance which consists of a water-based carrier gel, hyaluronic acid (HA) and may contain lidocaine, a local anaesthetic to make the treatment more comfortable.

HA is a naturally occurring substance which is a major component if skin and has a function in wound healing, hydration and cell to cell communication. One of its main characteristics is that it effectively binds water like a sponge, making it effective tissue filler.

The duration of dermal fillers shows some variation depending on a number of factors but is now believed to be longer than previously thought due to integration of the product into the tissues of the face.

Generally as a rule of thumb, thinner products used in more mobile areas of the face (like the lips), last for shorter periods than thicker products used more deeply in static areas of the face.

However, this might not always seem to be the cases as the products that are more superficially placed tend to be more visible so noticed more.

Unlike wrinkle-smoothing injections, the effect of dermal fillers can be seen instantly. However, they do take some time to “integrate” and smooth into the face which again depends upon the thickness of the product and the skin/ area of the face. It is important not to panic about an initial lumpiness or bumpiness as this will settle within a few days to a month following treatment.

Very thick products may be felt for even longer over superficial bony areas although will not be visible to the naked eye.

Dermal filler treatment is not always pain free and it is generally wise to expect some degree of discomfort during the procedure.

Numbing cream can be applied and many products do contain local anaesthetic but individual pain tolerance can vary as can the sensitivity of different areas of the face.

The lips are a particularly tender area and generally not treated without topical anaesthetic. However, local anaesthetic can distort the anatomy of the tissues and to some degree; perception of pain allows a greater degree of safety to be maintained as pain is often a “warning” sign.

After treatment we advise you to avoid alcohol . Aim to drink water instead which can help to combat bruising and excess water retention.

Take care not to touch the skin for the first 24 hours. Try where possible to avoid any other skin treatments or dental work for a week or so after.

As far as exercise goes it is best to leave any strenuous activity for at least 24 hours .

If you need to take anything for pain relief then paracetamol is recommended instead of blood thinning medications like aspirin and ibuprofen.

As discussed you should have a full consultation with the taking of a full medical history and offered a cooling off period to allow informed consent with full disclosure of risks and side effects. Costs should be discussed and a consent form signed with the opportunity to ask further questions given.
Photographs should be taken pre-post treatment.

The practitioner should discuss the treatment with you; giving you a realistic expectation of what they feel is achievable.
A topical cream may be applied prior to treatment and the area disinfected. If a needle is used, you should expect to feel several pin pricks and a scratching sensation, possibly with some mild burning as the product is injected.

If a cannula is used, the practitioner again numb up the insertion site, which can in itself feel like a mild burning or stinging sensation. Cannulas create an odd pulling and tugging sensation as they are positioned under the skin.

Treatment itself usually takes around 30 minutes depending on the extent of treatment.

The practitioner may disinfect or massage the skin after treatment and give advice on any aftercare advice (see earlier).

HA is a naturally occurring sugar found in skin so HA fillers are considered very safe when treatment is received from a reputable practitioner .

Complications may arise if post-operative advice isn’t followed . Other factors may include poor skin condition, underlying medical conditions/medications as well as practitioner training and experience.

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