Nowadays, many people are very interested in their appearance and beauty, aren't they? Many people especially want to enhance the beauty of their face and make their lips look fuller and more beautiful. Perhaps you have seen such beautiful lips on social media and in films and thought, "I wish I had lips like this." So, one popular solution for this is 'Lip Fillers'. Today, we will talk about this very simply, in a way that you can understand.
Simply put, what are lip fillers?
Lip fillers are a type of injection that adds volume to your lips. They are a type of 'dermal filler'.
Simply put, these fillers are made from synthetic Hyaluronic Acid (HA) . Now you might be wondering if the word 'acid' means something dangerous. It's not. This hyaluronic acid (HA) is something that is naturally present in our bodies . It does this by providing the skin with the moisture and fullness it needs. So, in this treatment, a synthetic, safe form of it is used. Today, these fillers are available in the market under various brand names like `Juvederm®` and `Restylane®`.
So, who gets these lip fillers? For what reasons?
Getting lip fillers is a completely personal decision . Being able to do what you want with your body and appearance can be a great source of emotional strength. However, to be eligible for this treatment, you must:
- You must be in good physical health.
- You need to have realistic expectations (you can't expect lips like a celebrity, because everyone's face shape is different).
- There must be no infection in the mouth or lips (e.g., mouth ulcers, herpes) at that time.
There are several main reasons why many people choose this treatment:
- Restore the look of old lips: As we age, our lips can become thinner and lose volume. Also, the groove between the upper lip and nose (philtrum) can become longer and flatter. So these fillers can help restore that old look.
- Correct the shape of your lips: Some people have asymmetrical lips. This means there may be a difference in size between the upper and lower lips. Fillers can help correct this and create a symmetrical shape.
- Smooth out wrinkles: Wrinkles form around the mouth when we smile and talk. These fillers can reduce these wrinkles and give a youthful appearance.
- Increase self-confidence: When we are happy with our appearance, our self-esteem automatically increases. Many people turn to lip fillers for this reason as well.
How is lip filler treatment performed?
Even though this may not seem like a big deal, it is very important to be aware of the process.
What happens before treatment? (Consultation)
If you're thinking about this, the first thing you need to do is find a qualified, experienced doctor , such as a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.
The doctor will talk to you and ask you these questions:
- Why do you want to get lip fillers?
- What kind of result do you expect?
- Do you obsess over even the smallest flaws in your appearance? (Check for a condition like Body Dysmorphic Disorder)
- Are you doing this under someone else's influence?
Then, the doctor will examine your face, take measurements, and take several photos for your medical record.
Think of it like going to a hair salon and showing a photo. But the hairdresser might say that the style doesn't suit your hair type. Similarly, you might want to look like an actor, but it might not suit your face shape. So it's important to have realistic expectations.
During treatment...
First, the doctor will apply a topical anesthetic to numb your lips. These creams contain things like `(benzocaine)` and `(lidocaine)`. After 15-30 minutes, your lips will be numb, so you won't feel any pain.
Then, using a very fine needle , the doctor will inject the filler into the desired areas of the lips. This may include the vermillion border, the Cupid's bow, and the corners of the mouth. You will not feel any pain, but you may feel a slight pricking sensation. You may also apply an ice pack to reduce swelling during the treatment.
Typically, this entire process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours.
What are the advantages and disadvantages (risks)?
Like any medical treatment, this one has both benefits and risks.
| Advantages | Disadvantages & Risks |
|---|---|
| It is very safe when performed by an experienced doctor. The risk of side effects is low. | Bleeding and pain from injection sites. |
| Increases your self-esteem. | Recurrence of cold sores. |
| If you are not happy with the results, you can go back and have the filler dissolved by injecting an enzyme called hyaluronidase. | Infection. |
| It's a good way to see how you look before going for permanent surgery. | Difference in the size of the lips (asymmetry). |
| The treatment is temporary, so it's okay if you change your mind over time. | Migration of the filler to other areas (e.g., to the side of the nose). |
| The most serious risk: Very rarely, if the filler is mistakenly injected into a blood vessel (artery), tissue in that area can die (vascular compromise). This is a medical emergency. |
The most important thing is that this treatment cannot be done everywhere. Do not go to a beauty salon or spa to get it done. Definitely get it done only by a qualified and experienced doctor, such as a plastic surgeon or dermatologist.
Let's take care of ourselves after treatment until we recover!
After treatment, your lips may be slightly swollen, bruised, and sensitive. This swelling usually subsides within 24-48 hours, but it can take up to a week to fully heal.
The healing process can be facilitated by following these steps:
- Apply an ice pack: Apply an ice pack to your lips for about 10 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
- No lipstick or lip balm: Do not apply anything to your lips for at least 24 hours.
- Don't touch or squeeze your lips: Avoid things like kissing and drinking through a straw.
- Be careful when brushing your teeth.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid exercise: Do not exercise for at least 24 hours.
Some more questions you may have
Are lip fillers permanent?
No. This is temporary . The fillers are gradually absorbed by the body. The results usually last for 12 to 18 months . It depends on your age and your body's metabolism. Young people have a faster metabolism, so the fillers can dissolve more quickly.
Can it be done during pregnancy?
There have been no studies on the safety of lip fillers during pregnancy. Therefore, this treatment is not recommended during pregnancy .
When can I eat and drink?
It's best to avoid eating until the numbing medicine wears off. Otherwise, you may bite your lips without realizing it. Also, avoid foods that can stain your face, such as wiping your face, for the first 24 hours. You should also stop drinking alcohol for 24 hours, as alcohol can thin your blood and increase bruising.
Take-Home Message
- Lip fillers are a temporary cosmetic treatment. The results last for about 12-18 months.
- This is a very personal decision. Only consider this if you really want to. Don't force someone else to do it.
- Most importantly: If you are going to have this treatment, definitely go to a qualified, experienced doctor (plastic surgeon, dermatologist). Never get it done at a place like a beauty salon.
- Talk openly with your doctor about your expectations, potential risks, and costs before treatment.
- Be realistic about the results. Try to achieve a natural look that suits your face shape.
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