Everything You Need To Know Before Getting Lip Filler

From Kylie Jenner to Nikkie de Jager (aka Nikkie Tutorials), the beauty world has been obsessing over the full lip look for the last decade. While some are naturally blessed with ample pouts, others have turned to cosmetic procedures to achieve lush lips.

Lip augmentation, also known as lip fillers or lip injections, has surged in popularity in the last few years—between 2010 and 2016, lip injection procedures have increased by 50 percent for people ages 18 and up, according to a 2016 report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

If you've been debating a trip to the plastic surgeon's office, there are quite a few things you should know about lip fillers before scheduling an appointment. From prices to procedure, here's everything you need to know before seeking out a plumper pout.

The most commonly used lip fillers—such as Juvederm and Restylane—are made from hyaluronic acid, an ingredient often used in skincare for its youth-preserving benefits. Hyaluronic acid is naturally produced in the body, retaining water to keep your tissue well-lubricated. Its plumping effect makes it a natural choice for lip fillers, giving physicians control over the lip shape and volume. Other benefits of hyaluronic acid fillers are that they are less known to cause bruising, fairly long-lasting, and can be administered gradually.

Another lip-plumping procedure, called a lip flip, is achieved with Botox. Botox is injected into the middle of your upper lip, relaxing the muscles and causing the inner part of your lip to "flip" upward, creating a fuller look. Lip flips last around eight to 12 weeks, making them a good option for those who want a similar visual effect of fillers without the long-term commitment.

Each hyaluronic acid filler has a slightly different thickness—Juvederm Volbella, for example, is thinner compared to other fillers which give a slightly puffier look that flatters younger patients. Restylane is preferred for older patients because its thicker texture is better for adding structure to lips that have lost their volume over time. To figure out which filler is best for you, talk with your provider prior to getting your lip augmentation. Additionally, some lip fillers contain lidocaine, a local anesthetic that numbs the lips during the procedure.

Depending on your city, amount of filler, and injector, lip fillers can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000. If you live in a big city like New York or Los Angeles, you can expect to pay up to $2,000. While this might seem steep, a reputable injector is always a better choice over discount treatments. 

To reduce bruising and bleeding from lip injections, it's best to avoid blood thinners leading up to your appointment. This means to stop taking painkillers (aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.) at least ten days before your appointment, and avoid drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours pre-lip injections. For best results on the day of your appointment, make sure to drink plenty of water and eat something to reduce the risk of fainting or dizziness during the procedure.

Your provider will want to make your injections as pain-free as possible, and will usually administer a topical numbing cream or a numbing injection for a pleasant experience. You will still likely feel a prick and some pressure from the injection, but numbing agents will dull the worst of it. Immediately after your treatment, your lips will look a bit bruised and swollen. These effects should mostly subside within a few days, and be resolved within two weeks.

Right after your procedure, you can gently apply ice to reduce swelling and discomfort. You should avoid putting firm pressure on your lips, steer clear of lipsticks and lip products, and skip the gym for at least a day to keep swelling to a minimum. 

Lip injections are a fairly low-risk procedure, but complications can always arise. The most common side effects are pain, bleeding, and swelling, which should subside within a few days. More serious side effects can include severe swelling and bruising, infections, and even blood vessel blockages. You can avoid more severe side effects by choosing a reputable physician for your procedure.

Allergic reactions to hyaluronic acid are rare since it is naturally produced by the body, but reactions to numbing agents are possible. Inform your provider if you are allergic to lidocaine or other numbing treatments. It should also be noted that lip augmentations can reactivate herpes simplex flare-ups. If you have a history of cold sores, start taking prevention medication a few days prior to treatment.

Taking a needle to your own face is a big no-no, but temporary lip fullness can be achieved with a variety of products. There are plenty of plumping lip glosses formulated with ingredients such as peppermint, capsaicin, and hyaluronic acid to create poutier lips in seconds. See below for product options.