Lip Fillers (Restylane, Juvederm, Hydrafill, Teosyal)

(from £289) - Lip fillers are known by various brand names depending on the manufacturer. There are a few leading brands which have got the most clinical data supporting their efficacy. They consist of synthesised hyaluronic acid, which is supported in the collagen skin matrix. It is slowly absorbed over time, as the molecules mimic natural compounds found within the collagen in the skin. Collagen gives your skin 'bounce' and over time the percentage of collagen in skin reduces, causing it to sag and develop folds and creases.

How do I prepare for lip filler treatment?

Do nothing differently. Just go about your day to day activities as normal. Your skin will be cleaned at the time of the procedure so try not to use any products or cosmetics.

If having lip plumping and defining, you will need to have an anaesthetic block. This will be placed so that the lips are completely numb and so you will not feel any pain when the lip filler is being injected.

Lip filler will be injected into the vermillion border (the edge of the lips where the skin meets the lip itself) and also into the lips themselves in various position so that you have the effect you are happy with. You will have a mirror to hand and you will see the effect immediately. We aim to get the result that you are looking for and will not overfill your lips.

How do lip fillers work?

The gel-like solution is injected into the skin to add volume and creates a more youthful appearance. Areas commonly injected are nose to mouth lines (naso-labial lines/folds), lines around the mouth (peri-oral/smokers lines), lines between the brows (glabellar) and the lips.

How many lip filler treatment sessions will I need?

All grades of all the ranges usually last 6-12 months. They are all fully biodegradable and will break down gradually over time. As the absorption times differ with individuals, how the area looks and feels is the best indicator that a top-up is needed.

Are there side effects of lip fillers?

There are very few reported side effects with these products, bruising being the most common as with any injections. This is usually minimal and can be covered effectively with make up.
You must mention to your practitioner if you are taking any blood thinning medications ie. aspirin or warfarin as one would be at higher risk of bruising. However, this does not mean that we cannot proceed, it just mean we will take extra care to minimise bruising.

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