The Price of Beauty: Are Lip Injections Worth It?

A lip augmentation surgery happens every 20 minutes in America.

Surgeons use it to offer a safe and effective method to get a more sensual mouth. Only a few quick lip injections will leave you with a plump and pretty pout.

Yet, there’s a lot of detail that goes into this popular plastic surgery procedure.

Here’s everything you need to know about enhancing the size of your lips.

The Lowdown on Getting Lip Injections

Lip surgery works to alter the appearance of your lips. It adds volume and creates a more defined shape. It can also help to remove fine lines around the mouth for a more youthful look.

A plastic surgeon will select a measured amount of filler and inject it into your lips and mouth area. The amount of filler you get will depend on the level of fullness and the look you want. This helps to create a natural look and feel.

You can also control which areas you want to change. Some people only inject one lip or one section of the lip. Your doctor will be able to discuss the most natural approach for your face.

It’s important to note that most lip injections are non-permanent. You will need to keep getting injections over time for lasting results.

Before getting cosmetic procedures, like Lip Fillers, it’s important to weigh the benefits and side effects. Ask yourself these questions to be sure you are the right candidate for lip injections.

What Will It Cost?

Lip fillers get priced per injection. Most people pay an average of $620 per syringe. Yet, you shouldn’t need more than two syringes per procedure.

It will most likely be an out of pocket expense. As insurance does not cover most cosmetic procedures.

To get the best results, you’ll want to go with the most experienced and trusted plastic surgeon in your area. Dermatologists can also perform this procedure. Ask for personal recommendations and read online reviews before interviewing potential doctors.

How to Prepare for the Procedure?

You’ll want to discuss any special desired effects with your surgeon beforehand. Such as a pillow plush or bee-sting lip effect. This way you’re getting the right results.

It’s important not to take any medications that can thin the blood. Let your doctor know of any medications and supplements that you are using.

Also, let your doctor know if you have a history of getting cold sores. They may ask you to take medication before the procedure to prevent an outbreak.

You’ll also want to eat foods that fight inflammation. Fill up on leafy greens, broccoli, ginger, and fish.

Turmeric is also great for reducing inflammation. Mix it with a bit of coconut milk, honey, and ghee butter for a delicious and healthy drink.

It’s also best to set your expectations in a realistic manner. Your results will be unique to your own face.

What Happens During the Injection Process?

The whole process is quick and simple. It shouldn’t take any more than 20 minutes to complete. The surgery can even take place during your lunch break.

Using a thin needle, your lips and mouth area get injected with a filler. You may feel a slight stinging sensation or a pinch from the needle.

Lip surgery is not too painful. Yet, a numbing topical will likely get applied before the injection. You can also ask your doctor about including a local anesthetic before the injection.

Fat, Hyaluronic Acid, or Collagen Lips: Which Filler Is Best?

When it comes to lip augmentation, not all fillers get treated the same.

Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the newer and most common filler option. As it’s a natural substance that occurs in the body. This has replaced collagen as it is more effective and less risky.

If you’re not happy with your injections, you can reverse them in as little as 5 minutes. The doctor only needs to inject an enzyme that deactivates the HA.

Patients are a bit more likely to have an allergic reaction from collagen lips injections. Fat injections rarely get used. But may get recommended if you’re also considering a liposuction procedure.

What Is the Recovery Like?

You can leave the doctor’s office as soon as the procedure gets finished. Your doctor will apply some ice afterward to help with any swelling.

You’ll experience some tenderness. Your lips and mouth area may look red at first. There also may be a bit of swelling or bruising.

Other side effects can include slight bleeding from the needle injections. If you notice small lumps in the lips, these get dissolved over time. They get caused by the lip fillers sitting right on the surface.

It’s important not to place any pressure on the mouth area afterward. You’ll also want to avoid wearing makeup on or around the area. Facials or upper body massages are also not recommended.

Alert your doctor if these effects do not subside within a few days. Or if you suspect an infection or allergic reaction. Bruising may take up to a week to fade.

How Long Do Results Last For?

Lip augmentation results are instant. It will take about a day for your new lips to settle. The result is natural looking lips that feel no different than before.

Some doctors also go by a more gradual injection method. They spread out the injections over time to reach your desired results. This is a good idea if it’s your first time getting injections and you want a more subtle look.

Lip surgery results last about half a year before you’ll need to get new injections. A faster metabolism can also speed up the process. Then you’ll need new injections around 4 months or so.

Over time, HA injections may result in an increased size of your lips. This is due to the injections increasing natural hyaluronic acid production within the body.

A New Set of Lips, for a New You

Lip injections are an effective method for enhancing the size and shape of your lips.

Be sure to first weigh the possible side effects and results to make sure it’s worth it. You’ll also need to make a commitment to getting the procedure redone about 2 times per year.

For longer lasting results, it’s important to take good care of your smile and skin. Here are more tips to maintain a healthy glowing face.