Lip filling is a cosmetic procedure in which a liquid is injected into the lip to give more volume, shape and make the lip more full.
There are several types of liquids that can be used in lip filling, however, what is most used is composed of a substance similar to hyaluronic acid, which is produced naturally by the body. Collagen, on the other hand, has been used less and less in this technique because it has a shorter duration.
Usually, the effect of lip filling lasts close to 6 months, but it can vary according to the type of injection. For this reason, the surgeon usually schedules a new injection around that date so that there are no major variations in the volume of the lips.
Who can do it
Lip filling can be used in almost all cases to add volume, shape and structure to the lips. However, one should always consult with the plastic surgeon to assess whether this procedure is the best way to obtain the expected result, before deciding on filling it out.
In addition, the ideal is to start with a small amount of injection and increase over time, as large volume injections can cause a very sudden change in physical appearance, which can create feelings of frustration.
How the filling is done
Lip filling is a relatively quick technique that can be done at the cosmetic surgeon's office. For this, the doctor marks the places to inject to obtain the best result and then applies a light anesthetic to the lip, before making the injections with a fine needle, which does not leave scars.
How is recovery
Like the procedure, the recovery of lip filling also tends to be rapid. After the injection, the doctor usually offers a cold compress to apply on the lip and reduce the natural inflammation of the organism on injection. When applying cold it is important not to apply too much pressure.
In addition, you should not apply any type of product on the lips, such as lipstick, during the first hours, to decrease the chances of infection.
During recovery it is possible for the lips to lose volume very slightly, due to the reduction of inflammation at the site, however, the day after the procedure, the present volume should already be the final one. In some cases, during the first 12 hours there may also be slight discomfort when speaking or eating, due to inflammation.
Possible risks of filling
Lip filling is a very safe procedure, but like any other type of surgery it has some risk of side effects such as:
- Bleeding at the injection site; Swelling and the presence of purple spots on the lips; Sensation of very sore lips.
These effects usually disappear after the first 48 hours, but if they persist or worsen it is very important to see a doctor.
In addition, in very severe cases, more serious complications such as infections or allergic reactions to the injected fluid may also arise. Therefore, it is very important to watch for signs such as severe pain in the lips, redness that does not go away, excessive bleeding or the presence of fever. If they do, it is important to go back to the doctor or go to the hospital.