How To Find the Right Doctor
Research and consultations are key. "Look at the physician and make sure that they have a similar aesthetic to yours," Dr. Doft suggests, adding that many physicians have before and after photos or reviews online that you can check out. While Instagram is a new way to find a doctor for you, it's still important to book an in-person consultation before committing to your decision. Another helpful tip is asking a friend. If you know someone who has lip injections you admire, consider asking them for a recommendation. Just be sure that whoever you do choose is a medical professional and not an unlicensed person at a medispa you found on Groupon.
What Should I Expect the Day After Getting Lip Injections?
"The down time is related to swelling and bruising," Dr. Doft says. "Most patients find they experience swelling during the first three to seven days." Bruising can occur, too, but usually resolves within a week. While Dr. Doft assures that most patients don't need an anti-inflammatory post-injections, she does recommend eating pineapple or taking Arnica montana — both can reduce bruising. Additionally, lips will feel a little tender and hard after the injections, but as the hyaluronic acid absorbs water the lips will soften and feel normal again.
What Are the Risks of Lip Filler?
Aside from you disliking the results, one of the most common risks associated with filler is the formula migrating in the lips. Migrated lip filler can present as lumps, noticeable volume above the top lip, lack of a defined lip edge all over, and sometimes can cause discomfort. Incorrect placement by the person who administered the filler is the number-one reason this happens.
Can Lip Filler Be Removed?
Yes, you can remove lip filler. (Kylie Jenner has done it before.) Dr. Doft says that it's a matter of dissolving the hyaluronic acid, which for the record, is temporary to begin with, with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This also has to be injected into your lips in order for the filler to be "removed." The lips are well innervated, so getting lip filler removed isn't necessarily a fun experience. Some people with high thresholds for pain consider it incredibly uncomfortable, but again, this is all subjective.
