5 October 2023
Everything You Ever Wanted To Know About Lip Fillers
Are you new to lip injections? At our MediaCity Manchester MedSpa, we offer lip filler injections that provide natural-looking lip volume with minimal downtime. We understand that it’s normal to feel a bit nervous before your first visit, so we’ve compiled all the information you need to have a smooth and rewarding experience. Let’s dive into the details!
Lip fillers are typically made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring sugar in your body. When injected just below the skin, the gel-like HA adds temporary volume to the lips. Since HA is safe to inject and naturally occurring, there’s no need for allergy testing before your treatment.
The benefits of lip fillers include adding plumpness to the body of the lip, defining the vermilion border (the line that separates the pink part of your lip from the surrounding skin), and smoothing away vertical lip lines. It’s an ideal treatment for individuals with naturally thin lips or those whose lips have thinned with age.
You may have heard of a lip flip, which is a popular enhancement to lip fillers. It involves using BOTOX® Cosmetic near the upper lip to subtly turn it outward and upward. While it doesn’t add volume, it creates the illusion of a larger upper lip, especially for those who feel their top lip disappears when they smile.
Now, let’s address the question of discomfort. Lip injections can be mildly uncomfortable due to the sensitive nature of the lips and the presence of nerve endings. However, we have effective strategies to ensure your comfort during the process. The lip fillers we use contain lidocaine, an anesthetic that helps with the injection discomfort. Additionally, we can apply an anesthetic dental block to numb the area. Most patients find our pain management practices more than sufficient, and the injection process typically takes just a few minutes.
To prepare for your lip injections, there are a few things you can do. First, choose the right injector—a board-certified plastic surgeon, doctor, or registered nurse with experience in aesthetic injections. It’s also advisable to avoid alcohol, blood-thinning medications, and NSAIDs for a few days before your appointment, with your doctor’s permission. Arriving with a clean face is essential, as we’ll need to sanitize the injection sites. Taking paracetamol before your appointment can help preempt any soreness. It’s also a good idea to avoid major events for the next couple of weeks, as you may experience some bruising and swelling that will subside over time.
Aftercare is crucial for a speedy recovery. Here are some do’s and don’ts to follow:
DO: Take Arnica montana, a homeopathic supplement that can alleviate bruising when taken after your injections.
DO: Apply ice to the treated area to minimize swelling.
DO: Sleep with your head elevated on the first night to help reduce inflammation.
DON’T: Touch or massage the treated area, as it may cause irritation and migration.
DON’T: Schedule any dental procedures for the next two weeks.
DON’T: Engage in strenuous activities or expose yourself to heat for 24 hours after your treatment.
If you have any concerns during your recovery, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to ensure your lips heal properly.
Now, let’s address some commonly asked questions:
CAN YOU SMOKE AFTER LIP FILLERS? We strongly advise against smoking (and vaping) after lip filler treatment, as it can disrupt the skin’s natural healing process, age the skin, and even cause infections. It’s best to avoid smoking for at least the first 24 hours.
CAN YOU DRINK AFTER LIP FILLERS? While it may be tempting to celebrate your results with alcohol, it’s advisable to wait 24 hours before consuming alcohol. Alcohol can act as a blood thinner, making you more susceptible to bruising and swelling.
CAN YOU EAT AFTER LIP FILLERS? Your lips may be sensitive to hot and cold temperatures, and it can be more challenging to eat and drink immediately after your treatment due to numbing. Stick to easy-to-eat foods and drinks that don’t require wiping your lips, and avoid salty foods that can worsen swelling and cause dehydration.
CAN I PUT LIP BALM ON AFTER LIP FILLERS? We recommend avoiding makeup in the first 24 hours after treatment. The area will be sensitive, and touching around the injection sites could cause pain, infection, or product displacement.
CAN I EXERCISE AFTER LIP INJECTIONS? Light exercise, such as walking, is fine. However, it’s best to avoid strenuous activities for at least the next couple of days to prevent worsening any existing swelling or bruising.
CAN I GO TO THE SPA AFTER LIP INJECTIONS? Heat treatments, such as those in a spa, sauna, or sunbed, should be avoided for around 48 hours after treatment. Heat can worsen swelling, so it’s best to wait until you’ve fully recovered.
CAN I TAKE PAINKILLERS AFTER LIP INJECTIONS? Over-the-counter paracetamol is safe to take. However, it’s advisable to avoid blood thinners like aspirin, as they can lead to swelling and bruising. If you have any concerns about painkillers or other medications, consult with us or your doctor.
CAN I HAVE OTHER TREATMENTS WITH MY LIP FILLERS? Dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle injections are generally fine to have alongside lip fillers. However, treatments like microneedling or chemical peels may not be recommended. We can discuss this further during your consultation and provide guidance on the best timing and combination of treatments.
CAN I HAVE MY LIP INJECTIONS DISSOLVED? If you’re unhappy with your results, it is possible to dissolve lip fillers. However, it’s important to have a consultation with us to ensure it’s the right choice for you. Keep in mind that your lips may take a few days to settle, so it’s best to wait and see the final results before making a decision.
CAN LIP FILLERS GO LUMPY? In some cases, lumps may occur due to swelling or bruising after treatment. Most lumps resolve on their own, but it’s always a good idea to have them checked to rule out any underlying issues. Our doctors can carefully massage them out for you, and we offer complimentary follow-up appointments for this purpose.
We hope this information helps you feel more prepared and informed about lip injections and aftercare. If you have any further questions or concerns, feel free to ask! 0161 877 444
