Which Lip Filler Is Right for Me?

Lip augmentation is a common cosmetic procedure done to improve the overall volume, size, and shape of your lips. There are two main techniques for lip augmentation: implants and fillers.

Implants provide a more permanent solution, whereas fillers are temporary, more customizable, and more affordable. Considering lip fillers are also less invasive, it’s not hard to see why they have largely replaced implants as the go-to for people seeking lip augmentation.

But not all fillers are the same. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about lip fillers and how to get started in Huntington Beach,CA.

What Are Lip Fillers?

The term lip filler typically refers to any injectable meant to increase volume or improve the shape of your lips. Lip fillers can address gradual lip thinning that occurs as you age, but people of all ages use lip fillers to achieve plumper, fuller lips.

Types of Lip Fillers

There are many different brands of lip fillers, but they all use either hyaluronic acid or collagen to achieve the desired results.

Collagen was once the injectable of choice for most people but has generally fallen out of favor since hyaluronic acid (HA) injections arrived on the scene. HA lip injections typically last longer, are less likely to trigger an allergic reaction, and add more volume than collagen injections.

Other dermal fillers still contain collagen, but when it comes to the lips, hyaluronic acid fillers are the current standard.

Are Lip Fillers the Same as Botox?

Lip fillers, and dermal fillers in general, are very different from Botox. For starters, Botox usually treats other areas of the face, not the lips. Botox is also a neuromodulator, meaning it uses a different active ingredient that interferes with your muscles’ ability to communicate with your brain.

Botox, or botulinum toxin, relaxes targeted muscles and prevents them from contracting in order to minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. HA lip fillers simply add volume to your lips.

Benefits of Lip Augmentation with Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Here are some of the benefits you can expect from your lip filler procedure at Image Center.

Noticeably Plumper Lips

Once injected, hyaluronic acid attracts and retains moisture to create a well-hydrated and fuller appearance. You can start to see the results immediately after treatment, although it may take up to two weeks for the full results to be realized.

If you want to dramatically increase the size of your lips, you can achieve that with a series of treatments. You can discuss your treatment plan at your consultation.

Minimally Invasive

Lip fillers are minimally invasive and are considered to be a non-surgical procedure because there are no incisions or anesthesia necessary. During your lip filler procedure, we will make a series of tiny injections at the optimal points that we mapped out together during your consultation.

Since fillers are minimally invasive and non-surgical, minimal aftercare is required, and you can usually resume your normal daily routine once your treatment is complete.

Results Are Long Lasting But Not Permanent

Perhaps the biggest allure of hyaluronic acid lip fillers like Juvéderm and Volbella is that they create long-lasting results without locking you in for life. If, for any reason, you decide you don’t want the filler anymore, an enzyme can be injected to dissolve the remaining material and restore your natural lip shape and size.

Hyaluronic acid fillers can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the type and quantity of the filler you use. However, over time, the fillers begin to wear off and re-treatment is necessary to maintain your desired look.

What to Expect

Many people are apprehensive about lip fillers because they don’t know what to expect. Rest assured, whether you go to our Huntington Beach, Irvine, San Clemente, or Downey location, you can expect to receive the same high level of respect, professionalism, and compassion.

Read on to learn more about what to expect when you come to Image Center for lip augmentation.

Before Your Lip Filler Procedure

Before we can perform any procedure, even the non-surgical ones, you must come in for a consultation. At your consultation, we will discuss your medical history, your motivations for getting lip filler, and what results you expect to achieve.

This information will help us determine whether you’re a good candidate for lip augmentation and the best treatment plan for you.

During Your Lip Filler Procedure

The procedure itself typically takes no more than 20 minutes to complete. During this time, we will inject the correct amount of filler at specific points to achieve your desired results.

After Your Lip Filler Procedure

Once your procedure is complete, we’ll go over any aftercare instructions with you before you leave our office. Some minor restrictions and precautions are necessary, but they shouldn’t cause significant changes to your normal routine.

You should avoid strenuous exercise and makeup for at least 24 hours after the procedure, but aside from that, you’re free to go about your regular activities.