Why the lip filler standard is too much

With lips being widely regarded as a symbol of your sensuality, is augmenting them with dermal filler a good thing? However, according to Dr Gavin (MBBS, Cosmetic Doctor, Liposuctionist) the lip filler standard is excessive, where there is too much lip filler that it no longer suits the face. He asks, “Why are cosmetic practitioners filling lips with dermal filler, then refilling them after 6 months when they know it doesn’t look good?” 

Perhaps the answer lies in the guidelines provided by some dermal injectable manufacturers. They indicate that dermal injections last for 6 months and that 1mL of dermal lip injections should be used for the lips. However, it is our philosophy that injecting 1ml of filler in patients’ lip area every 6 months is excessive. Read on to find out why.

How long does lip filler last?

If you’ve been getting your lips filled every 6 months or so, you may want to reconsider this regime. Dr Gavin Chan and Dr Mobin Master used MRI scans to determine how long dermal fillers actually last in your body. They discovered that dermal fillers last a lot longer than the 6 to 18 months manufacturers suggest. In some patients, dermal injectable treatments can last for up to a decade and can even migrate to other areas of your face. 

Dr Gavin Chan explains, “When the dermal filler is injected into the vermillion (the red part) of your lip, it’s a very small space and is subject to muscle contractions when you talk, chew and smile. This dermal lip treatment can migrate from your lip area into the area above your lip. When this happens, you’ll think the lip filler has gone and you probably want to get more. But this is not the solution. The lip injection hasn’t gone; it’s just hiding above your lip.”

Based on the MRI scan studies, Dr Gavin Chan believes “the frequency of lip injections should be several years apart, not six months apart. While 1mL dermal injections seem to be the standard amount that most cosmetic practitioners inject into lips, it’s way too much.”

Find out more about this groundbreaking MRI dermal filler study.

What happens if you overfill your lips?

A common consequence of too much lip filler is that the filler can migrate or ‘bleed’ into other areas of your face. This can result in small lumps or raised areas around the initial treated area. Overfilling your lips can also cause excessive bruising, discolouration or discomfort.

How to reverse lip filler 

The reversal of lip fillers can be achieved using an enzyme called Hyaluronidase which catalyses the breakdown of hyaluronic acid fillers.  

What are the risks of having lip filler injections?

The risk of lip filler injections include; bruising, bleeding, swelling, overfilling, vascular occlusion, scarring, reactivation of cold sores, infection, movement of the lip filler outside of the lip, and longer than expected duration of action.

Have an initial consultation with your practitioner

An initial consultation is essential for any cosmetic treatment. Your practitioner will ensure you understand what is involved in the procedure and answer any questions you may have. 

How do you know if lip filler has gone wrong?

Bruising

Bruising occurs when blood vessels are broken or punctured by the needle. A little bit of bruising is common but severe bruising or change in the colour of the skin may signify a vascular occlusion.

Necrosis

Necrosis refers to the death of tissue due to reduced blood flow. Necrosis can occur as a result of lip filler if the injection is preventing blood flow to the tissue or if the injection damages the tissue directly.

Necrosis can cause side effects such as severe pain, paleness and discolouration. Necrosis can lead to scarring if not treated quickly, so you should notify your doctor of any unusual symptoms immediately.

Lumps

Lumps often occur as a result of incorrect techniques – such as overfilling or injecting too roughly. Sometimes, the type of filler used can also result in lumpiness if it is too thick. Lumps could also be a sign of an allergic reaction.