So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and try lip fillers for the first time! You might have seen a few Instagram influencer’s post about their perfect pouts, or even spoken to a few friends who have had it ‘done’. But before you book your treatment, it is important to do a little research of your own to ensure your experience is as smooth as possible.

We spoke with Derma med spa’s® experienced cosmetic specialist Dr Rajiya to help us answer some of the most frequently asked questions we get about lip fillers!

 

I know I want my lips done, do I need a consultation?

Yes. As lip fillers require a doctor’s assessment and prescription, all clients are required to undertake a consultation. During this consultation, your injector will work with you and the doctor to discuss the best course for treatment and set expectations.

“Your injector will be upfront with you in your consultation as to whether the result you want is achievable and how many treatments you may require to get it,” says Dr Rajiya.

At Derma med spa® we offer consultations for every client, and with prior booking, it is usually possible for treatment to commence immediately post-consult.

 

 

How can I pick a good injector?

“Some injectors love to inject lips and have a great eye for what will be the best technique to treat you,” says Dr Rajiya.

“Have a look at their before and after photos.  You may see an injector whose results you love.  Make an appointment for a consultation with them and then you can see if you think they are right for you.”

At Derma med spa®, all Doctors have comprehensive training with lip filler and are kept up to date with the latest techniques with regular in-service training sessions.

 

Will my lips look like Kylie Jenner?

Discuss your goals with your injector but keep in mind realistic expectations.

“You won’t have Kylie Jenner’s result with your first treatment,” says Dr Rajiya, “but you can build on your first treatment to achieve your desired result.”

“One thing to keep in mind, however, is that the injector can only enhance your own lips.  Not all lips can be turned into ‘Kylie Jenner” lips.”

 

 

Do lip fillers hurt?

This will really depend on the individual. The injections themselves feel like a slight pinch, and you may experience slight pressure or a ‘stinging’ sensation as the product is being injected.

Although the needle used is very small, slight bruising and bleeding can occur at the site of the injections. You can choose to have your lips numbed with a topical numbing cream and this is recommended for your first time.

 

How long will my appointment take?

The treatment itself should only take between 15-30 minutes. It may be longer if you have having other areas such as cheeks treated at the same time.

 

 

When can I expect to see results?

You will see the results of your treatment almost immediately, however, it is very important to understand that your lips will be swollen. “The degree of swelling is variable from person to person.  You can’t predict how much swelling you will get until you have had them injected,” says Dr Rajiya. “It is recommended not to have lip filler done if you have an important event on in the first few days after treatment.”

To reduce swelling post treatment, it is recommended to:

• Ice your lips intermittently that evening
• Sleep with your head slightly elevated
• Avoid exercise for 24 hrs
• Avoid a hot shower that evening

 

During the healing process, it is normal to expect some minor bruising and sometimes slight unevenness. Don’t stress, once the swelling has gone down, you’ll start to see the final result of your treatment.

 

What happens if I don’t like them?

It is possible to erase the dermal filler using an enzyme to dissolve the product, although it is extremely rare for us to need to do so!

 

What will my lips feel like afterwards?

“For the first 48hrs, it is normal for them to feel very firm.  This is due to a combination of the filler and swelling.  They will gradually soften over the next two weeks,” advises Dr Rajiya.

“Sometimes they feel completely natural and clients question whether there is any product left. Of course, there is!  It is, however, quite normal also to have areas where you can feel the filler.  This is nothing to be concerned about as the injector may have specifically injected more product in the area to achieve your desired result.”

 

 

Should I massage my lips post treatment?

Your injector will advise you on how to massage your lips and how often to massage.  “Sometimes you may be asked not to massage them at all.  It is extremely important to follow your injectors recommendations,” says Dr Rajiya.  If you are unsure when you get home, phone your treating clinic to get clarification.

 

How long will my new lips last?

Duration depends on many factors, such as the individual’s skin type, skin condition lifestyle and age – as well as the type and amount of product used. After the initial treatment, follow-up sessions are normally recommended around every 6 to 12 months depending on the individual and the product used. A treatment of the lips can last up to six months.