What Can Be Done About the Lifespan of Lip Fillers?

When getting lip-enhancing fillers, one of the first things most patients want to know is how long they can expect their results to last. Whether the treatment involves the recently approved RHA® line or the more established Juvederm®. Little Rock’s Dermatology Group of Arkansas says that the lifespan of the results depends on what type of filler is being injected. Other factors that impact longevity include how much filler is injected, which part of the face is being treated, and the speed at which your body metabolizes the filler.

Hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary treatments that introduce a volumizing gel that is eventually metabolized by the body. The gels tends to break down much faster in areas of the face where there is regular and dramatic movement, such as on and around the mouth. It goes without saying that we use our mouths more than any other facial feature for talking, eating, and general daily life, so there are many repetitive movements associated with the lower third of the face.

Some patients choose lip fillers because of facial volume that as slowly lost as they aged, while other patients may have always had naturally thinner lips due to genetics. Either way, one of the main benefits of all types of hyaluronic acid fillers is that you will see the results instantly. The downside is that those results are temporary—and it can be frustrating when you see results you love, but must eventually return to get the same treatment done again.

A noticeable decrease in volume will typically be seen halfway into the expected duration any filler, so many individuals decide to get maintenance treatments before their results have completely metabolized. Although the only proven way to sustain results from lip fillers is to get such touch-up treatments, the following tips are believed to help maximize results and help them to last as long as possible.

Avoid Touching Lips and Other Areas Injected with Fillers

Try not to put too much pressure on the injected areas of your face, since pushing on the places where gel is introduced can alter the results. Agitating or jostling the fillers too much can also cause them to dissolve at a faster rate.

Prepare Before Your Appointment

Although aftercare is important, what you do before you go into a filler session will also have a major influence on the results. The lips are thin and highly likely to bruise, so you can stop taking aspirin or other blood thinners and anti-inflammatories or supplements—as long as it is medically safe and approved for you to do so. Your doctor may also advise taking a prescription medication to reduce the chance of cold sores or bruising if you’re prone to such problems. Apply Aquaphor to keep your lips moisturized.

Follow Aftercare Advice

Following your injector’s aftercare instructions helps to accentuate and sustain the results from lip fillers. It’s better to leave bruising and swelling alone, other than applying ice packs for some relief from the swelling. Avoid consuming spicy foods that could cause irritation or trauma to the sensitive area of the lips.

Develop a Personalized Skin Care Routine for the Lips

You can take other steps at home to preserve the results for as long as possible. Hydration will be critical for maintaining the outcome from lip fillers. You can apply products that plump the lips, such as products that contain hyaluronic acid or peptides. These products smooth and hydrate the lips. Exfoliating the lips can also help to keep them in good shape. There are other products that help to nourish, soften, and moisturize the lips, including over-the-counter serums and masks. Some lip products help to promote collagen growth while reducing wrinkles.

For more details about facial fillers like Juvederm®, contact Little Rock’s Dermatology Group of Arkansas. Call 501-227-8422 or 1-800-225-8422 to request a consultation and find out more about the advantages of injectable fillers for enhancing the lips, cheeks, and other facial contours or reducing wrinkles.