9 Myths About Lip Fillers

Many young people have misconceptions about getting lip fillers, often associating the procedure with disproportionate and unnatural results. In this blog post, we will debunk 9 popular myths about lip augmentation and explain why none of them are actually based on truth.

Even though we used to cover our faces with masks during the COVID-19 pandemic, the interest towards the lip filler injections has not diminished in recent years. In fact, there has been a boom compared to the period before the pandemic. The lip fillers add volume to the lips, make them more symmetrical, and fill in the lines and the wrinkles in and around the area. The ability to hide the swelling after the injection of the filler under a mask has made the therapy even more popular and desirable in recent months.

Myth 1: The fillers can stretch the lips

The skin on the lips is one of the thinnest on the body, so at first glance, the claim that the fillers could cause stretching seems plausible. But it is incorrect.

The dermatologists explain that over time the dermal fillers absorb naturally regardless of the area where they were injected, and once their effect wears off, the lips normalise completely.

It is important to note that the lips are one of the most dynamic areas — we constantly talk, laugh, and eat. Additionally, the area is well-supplied with blood, which leads to a faster dissolution of the filler. Therefore, the dermatologists recommend the application of small amounts over shorter periods.

Myth 2: You can get a filler the day before a big event

Many girls think they can immediately pose for a perfect picture the day after the procedure. But this is a major mistake.

After the injection of the filler, the lips look great, and the patients are satisfied. But when they leave, their lips swell. Since hyaluronic fillers are super hydrophilic, they draw in and retain water, and in most cases, the swelling is significant and usually lasts for two days.

When the swelling subsides, bruises may also appear. The dermatologists advise that gels with arnica combined with ice can help after the injection. The creams and gels containing a higher concentration of the active ingredient are great for controlling the swelling.

To reduce and avoid the bruising and swelling, the dermatologists use a blunt cannula for the injection. The dermatologist’s experience and injection technique can minimise the swelling and the body’s reaction to the filler. As a rule, the experienced injectors apply the filler more slowly to reduce the discomfort and the swelling.

Myth 3: You can easily get lips exactly like those of your favourite actress

Just as everyone shows pictures to their hairdresser, it is quite standard for the patients to want the lips of a popular celebrity. Although it is advisable to be specific with your dermatologist about the desired lip shape, it is also important to have realistic and reasonable expectations for the outcome. The best results come from working with the natural shape of the lips to enhance and complement rather than alter it.

If a patient has very thin lips, there is no way they will end up with lips like Angelina Jolie’s. The dermatologists explain that the facial anatomy does not always allow for the modelling of full lips, and the over-enhancement sometimes does not look good.

Myth 4: The lips with fillers do not look natural

While we often frown upon the fake-looking lips on social platforms, the idea that the lip fillers can never look natural is entirely false. Of course, the overfilling is the most common reason for the unnatural-looking lips, but there are other factors that can contribute to such an appearance, as well.

The lower lip should almost always be fuller than the upper one, but most patients focus on filling the upper lip, which can lead to an unnatural look. Injecting the filler into the corners also does not follow the natural proportions of the lip, which should be fuller in the center.

This is another reason why it is so important to trust an experienced dermatologist who can steer you away from some mistakes and ensure that the applied filler looks as natural as possible.

Myth 5: The brand of the filler does not matter

Although it is hard to feel a real difference between the different fillers, this is not the case. The fillers are developed with different densities and functions, and the results achieved vary accordingly.

According to the dermatologists, the best fillers for lip augmentation are the soft fillers that do not create bumps or nodules and do not move or migrate over time.

Choosing the brand of the fillers is a discussion you should have with your injector after discussing your unique goals and receiving an individual assessment of your natural lip shape and proportion. The first and most important step, however, is to choose a highly qualified and experienced dermatologist who knows how to create a soft and natural appearance for your lips.

Myth 6: Lip fillers are permanent

Many people believe that once you get lip fillers, you are stuck with them forever. In reality, lip fillers are temporary and typically last anywhere from 6 to 12 months, depending on factors such as the type of filler used and your body’s metabolism. Since most lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body, they are gradually absorbed over time. This makes the procedure reversible in the sense that if you do not like the results, they will eventually wear off, or they can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase for an immediate correction.

Myth 7: Lip fillers are painful

While it is understandable to be concerned about pain, especially when it comes to the sensitive lip area, the truth is that the discomfort from lip fillers is quite minimal. Most dermatologists use a numbing cream or an injectable anaesthetic to ensure that the procedure is as pain-free as possible. Additionally, many modern fillers contain lidocaine, which further reduces the discomfort during the process. The patients typically report feeling a mild pressure or pinching, but not a significant pain. After the procedure, any residual discomfort usually subsides within a few days.

Myth 8: Lip fillers are only for women

Although lip fillers are more commonly associated with women, men are increasingly opting for lip augmentation as well. Men may seek lip fillers to enhance their lip shape, correct an asymmetry, or add a subtle volume. The goal for the male lip fillers often leans more toward a natural and undetectable enhancement rather than a dramatic volume augmentation. As the cosmetic procedures become more widely accepted across genders, more men are exploring the aesthetic treatments like lip fillers to achieve their desired appearance.

Myth 9: Lip fillers are only for people with thin lips

It is a common misconception that lip fillers are only for individuals with naturally thin lips. In reality, people with fuller lips also opt for fillers to refine their lip shape, add definition, or correct an asymmetry. For example, some individuals with fuller lips may want a more defined Cupid’s bow or a subtle enhancement to achieve a better balance between their upper and lower lips. Lip fillers can be used to address a variety of aesthetic concerns, regardless of whether someone starts with thin, or naturally full lips.

Understanding the truths behind these common myths about the lip fillers can help alleviate all unnecessary fears and misconceptions. This lip augmentation is a popular and effective way to enhance one’s appearance when performed correctly and by a skilled professional. By debunking these myths, it becomes clear that lip fillers, when administered properly, can achieve natural and beautiful results without the negative side effects often associated with them.

The increase in demand for lip fillers, even during the pandemic, highlights their enduring appeal. The procedure offers more than just enhanced lips – it boosts the self-confidence and helps the individuals feel better about their appearance. As with any cosmetic procedure, it is crucial to have realistic expectations and to seek treatment from experienced and qualified dermatologists.