Gone are the days of over-plumped, fake-looking duck lips (thank goodness!). Advancements in lip injectable fillers have come a long way in recent years. Fillers now allow for a much softer, smooth, natural appearance.

This is primarily due to the fact that most lip fillers are now made of hyaluronic acid. This naturally-derived substance is highly attracted to water and binds to moisture. There are several hyaluronic acid fillers to choose from, and some have smaller molecules than others do.

Bruising from Lip Fillers

Bruising depends on the person, but to minimize the chances of bruising, take these steps before and after your appointment:

• Avoid blood thinners including aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, vitamin E, multivitamins for about a week before your appointment. Each of these can act as a blood thinner and can contribute to post procedure bruising.
• Avoid alcohol at least 24 hours prior to your appointment.
• Take oral Arnica Montana. These natural, homeopathic pellets dissolve under your tongue to help with bruising and swelling from the inside out. It also comes in a topical gel or cream form that can be applied to maximize the benefit. These can usually be found at your health food store such as whole foods.
• Apply ice afterwards
• Lay propped up slightly
• Do not touch or rub your lips
• Avoid drinking hot beverages or drinking out a straw.

Lip Fillers & Cold Sores

If you are prone to cold sores, it is wise to take a preventative oral antiviral medication such as Valtrex that your doctor or nurse practitioner can prescribe for you. Although rare, lip fillers could possibly trigger a cold sore and no one wants that after achieving a beautiful lip enhancement! It is also important to reschedule your appointment if you have an active cold sore the day of your treatment.

Lip Fillers & Your Lip Shape

Everyone’s anatomy and shape of lips is different. It might take several treatments to achieve your end goal – natural, pillowy looking lips. Discuss your ‘ideal lip with your provider to ensure you’re on the same page with treatment and results. Together, you can decide what will work best. For those who are first timers and a bit nervous of the treatment, opting to gradually plump your lips over time might be the best option for you. You can always add a bit more a couple weeks after your initial treatment.

The Lifetime of Lip Filler

Filler doesn’t last forever. Depending on which filler is used, you can typically go 6 months to a year before needing a touch up. Keep in mind, this varies person to person depending on how quickly your body metabolizes.

Choosing the Best Injector

Buyer beware! Not every injector is advanced in lip injection techniques. Serious consequences can occur when in the wrong hands. Do your due diligence and make sure you select an experienced provider that can safely inject your lip filler. Lucky for you (and me), Charity Correa, Lifescape’s very own nurse practitioner injector specialist, is highly experienced with a vast knowledge of injectable treatments. Rest assured, you will be in the best of hands if you book with Charity.

Depending on the look you want to achieve, it’s best to discuss all your options with your provider.