Are you thinking of getting some lip fillers but find yourself wondering “how long does lip filler last?” or “how often will I need to top up lip filler?” Well, you’ve come to the right clinic. Clinic Dr Dray is a leading aesthetic clinic in the heart of Kensington, London. We specialise in premium, natural-looking, non-surgical cosmetic treatments, including the increasingly popular lip fillers. This detailed guide will explain everything you need to know about caring for your wonderful new lips.
This guide will cover:
- The basics of the lip filler procedure
- The longevity of lip filler, i.e. how long it normally lasts
- The factors that can impact how long your lip fillers last
- The importance of choosing an experienced practitioner for your lip filler treatment
- The variety of lip fillers available and their pros and cons
- The importance of follow-up appointments when it comes to preserving your desired look
How do Lip Fillers work?
In recent years, lip fillers have become popular thanks to their ability to refresh lips and rejuvenate their shape and size. The powerful ingredient that makes all this possible is a gel-like substance called hyaluronic acid. The magic of hyaluronic acid is that it pulls and holds onto water molecules. The end effect is fuller, plumper lips with noticeably fewer wrinkles. And do not worry; hyaluronic acid is natural to your body, which means it is harmless and easily absorbed over time.
How Are Lip Fillers Done?
The lip filler procedure is relatively straightforward in the hands of an experienced aesthetic practitioner. Clinic Dr Dray is a doctor-led team of aesthetic practitioners specialising in natural lip filler treatments.
It begins with applying a topical anaesthetic or numbing cream to minimise discomfort. Your aesthetic practitioner will then delicately place the filler into the lip tissue with a small needle or cannula. The exact injection site will vary depending on your specific aesthetic goals and the natural contours of your lips.
How Long Does Lip Filler Last?
One of the most common questions asked at Clinic Dr Dray is, “How long does lip filler last?” There is not one straightforward answer as it depends on many factors, including but not limited to:
- the type of filler used
- your age
- your metabolism
- your health habits, such as smoking and diet
But, in general, lip fillers last anywhere from six months to a year. Some long-lasting lip fillers may even last longer than this. The specific duration of your lip fillers will depend on the product used and the unique characteristics of your skin and body.
It’s worth noting that over time, your body will naturally metabolise the hyaluronic acid in the fillers thanks to an enzyme called hyaluronidase. Hyaluronidase breaks down hyaluronic acid, the result of which is thinning of the lip fillers over time. So, the speed at which your body produces hyaluronidase greatly impacts how long your lip fillers may last. For this reason, top-up treatments are required to maintain your lips’ desired volume and shape.
Choosing An Experienced Aesthetic Practitioner
One of the most crucial factors in the longevity and success of lip fillers is the injector’s skill. An experienced injector with a deep understanding of the procedure and a keen eye for aesthetics can ensure a natural look that complements your unique facial features.
At Clinic Dr Dray, our experienced doctors understand the anatomy of the face, including the blood flow and blood vessels in the lips, and can avoid complications such as overfilling. We follow a minimally invasive approach to achieve natural results, enhancing the lips’ shape and size without altering your overall look.
Types of Lip Fillers Available and Their Longevity
A wide range of hyaluronic acid fillers are available on the market, each with pros and cons. One of the most common types of lip filler is dermal fillers, also known as soft tissue fillers. Depending on the brand and specific formulation, these fillers can last six months to a year.
However, it’s important to remember that each person metabolises filler at a different rate, so even the best lip fillers can vary in how long they last. With that said, if your lip filler is re-absorbed much quicker than expected, that may be a sign to try a different filler or injection technique.
The Importance of Follow-Up Appointments
Follow-up appointments are critical for maintaining the results achieved from lip filler injections. Your aesthetic practitioner should suggest a follow-up appointment after your initial treatment to assess the effects and determine if any touch-ups are necessary. The lip filler procedure typically requires top-ups every six to twelve months to keep your lips full and voluminous.
In the next section of our guide, we will delve deeper into the factors that can influence how long lip fillers last, the lip filler treatment at Clinic Dr Dray, and the steps to care for your lips after getting a filler. Stay tuned! Click here to learn more about our lip filler treatment.
Post-Procedure and Follow-Up
Following good aftercare advice after your lip filler procedure is important to ensure you get the best result possible.
One of the most common side effects of the lip filler procedure is swelling and bruising. To manage this, apply a gentle cold compress/ice pack to the lips. We also recommend avoiding intense exercise and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which aids the body’s healing process.
Another tip is to avoid sleeping flat and elevate your head at night to reduce the risk of swelling.
As mentioned earlier, we always recommend a follow-up appointment to assess the results and make any necessary adjustments.
Conclusion
To summarise, if you’re looking for a natural and subtle way to restore vitality to your lips, lip fillers can be a great option. Although the answer to “How long does lip filler last” depends on various personal factors, we find they generally last between six to twelve months. To maintain your desired look, consider regular top-ups every 6-8 months, depending on your body’s response to the treatment. And remember that everyone is unique, so one person’s journey with lip fillers will look different to yours.
Aesthetics is a journey, and at Clinic Dr Dray, we’re here to guide you through it. As a luxury aesthetic clinic in London Kensington, we aim to provide the highest standard of care using premium products. Our experienced doctor-led practitioners have dedicated themselves to becoming experts in natural-looking, non-surgical cosmetic treatments – so you can feel confident in your skin.
If you’re considering a lip filler treatment, book a consultation with us at our London clinic today.
