Lip filler is an ideal aesthetic procedure for individuals who naturally have thin lips or have lost lip volume due to aging. Lips, which attract attention when speaking or smiling, are an important aesthetic feature, especially for women. Full, shaped, and smooth lips make a person appear attractive, aesthetic, and well-groomed, playing a significant role in maintaining a youthful appearance.

People who are not satisfied with the appearance of their lips may feel they lack an attractive and youthful look. However, with lip fillers—an easy, natural-looking, quick-acting, and harmless procedure—it is quite simple to achieve the desired lip appearance. Regular filler applications can also help maintain the ideal lip look for a longer period.

What is Lip Filler?

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Lip filler is an aesthetic procedure performed to add volume to the lips, balance the lip-nose and facial proportions, and make the lips more shaped and smooth. The goal of this procedure is to enhance the individual’s attractiveness, aesthetics, and overall well-groomed appearance. The filler material used in lip fillers is typically hyaluronic acid.

Hyaluronic Acid Lip Filler

Hyaluronic acid filler, also known as a dermal filler, provides structural support to the area where it is applied. Hyaluronic acid, a substance familiar to the human body, is cross-linked and has water retention properties. Thanks to these qualities, it not only keeps the lip area hydrated and soft but also creates a voluminous, smooth, and flexible structure. Hyaluronic acid filler gives the lips a natural look, offers long-lasting results, and can be easily reshaped if needed.

Who Can Get Lip Filler?

Lip filler is suitable for individuals whose upper lip is barely visible, those who want more voluminous lips, those with disproportionate upper and lower lips, and individuals with wrinkles or lines on their lips. The following conditions must also be met to undergo lip filler:

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Not be pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Have no risk of allergic reactions
  • Have no infections such as cold sores on the lips
  • Not have any chronic illnesses

What is the Ideal Lip?

The ideal lip varies depending on each individual’s facial and mouth structure. However, the following criteria have been established for lips to be considered aesthetically pleasing:

  • The volume of the upper lip should be at least half the size of the lower lip.
  • When viewed from the side, the upper lip should be 2mm in front of the lower lip.
  • The distance between the lips and the nose should be proportional.
  • The surface of the lips should be smooth, glossy, and vibrant.
  • The lip color should be a light red.
  • The lip contour should be well-defined.

The ideal lips should harmonize with the entire face and be in balance with other facial features. When determining the ideal lips, an individual’s speech, smile, and facial expressions are examined. The shape the lips take while speaking or smiling plays a crucial role in achieving the ideal lip appearance.

How is Lip Filler Applied?

Before lip filler is applied, the points where the filler will be injected and the amount needed are determined. The individual’s face shape, lip structure, and expressions are analyzed. A filler plan is then created based on what will best suit the person’s ideal lip appearance. After numbing the lip area with an anesthetic cream, the filler is injected into the selected points using a syringe. Once injected under the skin, the filler is shaped by hand to ensure even distribution.

To enhance the lip contour, additional filler can be applied to the lip lines as needed. The procedure takes about 10-15 minutes, and the individual can return to their daily routine immediately afterward.

What Are the Application Points for Lip Filler?

There are three application areas on the lips. The use of these areas is determined based on the individual’s needs. In some cases, all areas are treated, while in others, only one or two areas may be addressed.

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  • Lip profile: This is the area that defines the separation point between the upper and lower lips.

  • Lip volume: This refers to the point where the lips meet the surrounding skin, also known as the vermilion border.

  • Lip projection: This is the area between the outer vermilion border and the inner vermilion border of the lips.

How Long Does Lip Filler Take?

The entire lip filler process, including the preparation (determining application points, applying anesthetic cream) and the injection of the filler, takes about 30 minutes. After the procedure, swelling and redness in the lip area are normal and typically subside within 1-2 days. Applying a cold compress during this time can help provide relief.

Lip Filler Prices

The cost of lip fillers can vary depending on factors such as the amount of filler used, the type and brand of filler, the experience of the doctor, and whether the procedure is combined with other aesthetic treatments. Additionally, the amount of filler applied (measured in milliliters) plays a significant role in determining the price. The most accurate price will be provided after a consultation based on the individual’s needs. Using personalized filler ensures natural and long-lasting results.

What to Pay Attention to After Lip Filler?

To achieve effective and quick results after lip filler, the following precautions should be taken:

  • Protect the lip area from any impact.
  • Avoid hot baths, and stay away from steamy and hot environments such as hammams and saunas.
  • Do not apply lipstick or cosmetics.
  • Avoid consuming hot food and drinks.
  • Do not sleep face down.
  • Avoid smoking.
  • Avoid any movements that could alter the shape of the lips during the first 24 hours.

How Long Does Lip Filler Last?

The longevity of lip filler varies depending on the individual and the filler material used. Hyaluronic acid filler typically lasts in the body for an average of 8-12 months. During this time, the filler gradually dissolves and is absorbed by the body. Once the lip filler has fully dissolved, the individual can choose to have another filler treatment if desired. Regular applications help maintain the ideal lip appearance for a longer period.

When Does the Effect of Lip Filler Begin?

The effects of lip filler are visible immediately after the procedure. However, the filler fully settles, and the lips reach their ideal shape within 7-10 days. It is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations during this period.

Is Lip Filler a Painful Procedure?

Lip filler is a non-surgical procedure that does not require incisions or stitches. The filler material is injected under the skin using a fine needle. An anesthetic cream is applied to the lip area beforehand to numb it. The individual does not experience pain during or after the procedure, and there is no need to take painkillers.

Is Lip Filler Risky?

Lip filler is a safe and harmless procedure when the correct dosage is applied to the right points. It is essential that the treatment is performed by experienced and qualified doctors. To avoid health risks and undesirable aesthetic outcomes, it is crucial to have lip filler done in clinics, hospitals, or medical centers approved by the Ministry of Health.

What is the Most Suitable Age for Lip Filler?

Individuals must be at least 18 years old to get lip filler. In exceptional cases, filler can be administered to those under 18 with parental consent. Individuals born with thin, deformed, or disproportionate lips often choose lip filler at a younger age.

As people age and collagen decreases in the body, lip filler is also commonly chosen after the age of 35-45 to address thinning lips, volume loss, and wrinkles. There is no upper age limit for lip filler, and the procedure can be repeated as often as desired.

What Are the Advantages of Lip Filler?

The benefits of lip filler include:

  • By eliminating dry, thin, and wrinkled lips, individuals achieve voluminous, attractive, smooth, and vibrant lips.
  • No incisions are made, and the procedure is performed without general anesthesia. A syringe and local anesthesia are used. It is a practical and easy procedure.
  • It is a risk-free and harmless procedure.
  • The desired results are achieved in a short time.
  • There are no scars left after the procedure on the lips.
  • Lip filler is more economical compared to surgical procedures.
  • No pain or discomfort is felt during the lip filler procedure. It is a comfortable treatment.

What Should Be Avoided After Lip Filler?

After lip filler, hot solid and liquid foods should not be consumed. Lipstick or cosmetics should not be applied, and hot baths should be avoided. For the first 24 hours, kissing and any movements that could alter the shape of the lips should be avoided. All these rules will help the filler settle ideally and contribute to achieving the desired lip shape.

Is the Brand of Lip Filler Important?

Various brands of fillers are used for lip enhancement. The doctor selects the brand that best suits the individual to achieve the ideal lip structure. All filler brands used are FDA-approved and do not contain harmful substances for the lips. The differences in lip fillers are based on their finesse and softness. Since each person’s lip volume and structure differ, the most suitable filler brand will vary from person to person.

Is 1 cc of Lip Filler Sufficient?

Typically, between 0.5 to 2 ml of filler is used for lip filler procedures. In exceptional cases, more than 2 ml may be needed. Because each person’s lip structure and desired appearance differ, the amount of filler applied will also vary. Before the procedure, the doctor and the individual will agree on the amount of filler to be used and the desired appearance of the lips.

Will There Be Scars After Lip Filler?

Since lip filler is administered via a syringe without incisions or stitches, there will be no scars on the lip surface. On the contrary, if there are any wrinkles or scars on the lip surface, these can be eliminated with filler, resulting in a smooth appearance.

Is Lip Filler Applicable to Men?

There is no gender distinction when it comes to lip filler. While it is a procedure often performed on women, it is also preferred by men. The lip filler applied to men helps maintain masculine facial features while creating the most flattering lip appearance for them.

Will There Be a Loss of Sensation with Lip Filler?

After the filler procedure, there may be a temporary loss of sensation in the lips and a noticeable feeling of the filler for the first 2-3 days. As the healing process progresses, the sensation returns, and individuals adjust to the presence of the filler. The lips can be used comfortably as before.

What If Someone Is Not Satisfied with Their Lip Filler?

Filler procedures must be performed by qualified and experienced doctors to avoid unwanted appearances. If a person is not satisfied with the outcome, the filler can be dissolved using a reversal method.

The dermal filler can be dissolved by injecting hyaluronidase into the lip area. The dissolution process is as important as the application itself, so it should be performed by experienced and qualified doctors. After the filler is removed, the individual can choose to have filler re-applied based on their preference.

Can Lip Asymmetry Be Corrected with Filler?

Lip asymmetry refers to the mismatch between the left and right sides of the lips. With lip filler, the imbalance between the upper and lower lips can be corrected, as well as any asymmetry between the left and right sides of either the upper or lower lip. Lip filler provides symmetrical, harmonious, and proportionate lips.

Is Permanent Lip Filler Possible?

For lips to maintain an ideal shape permanently, a lip implant is required. However, silicone lip implants involve a surgical procedure and are difficult to remove once placed. Silicone implants do not provide as natural an appearance as fillers. Therefore, the healthiest and most practical method for lip augmentation is lip filler. While it may not be permanent, lip filler offers the most natural appearance.

Lip Lift or Lip Filler?

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the distance between the upper lip and nose by making an incision beneath the nose. In contrast, lip filler is a non-surgical procedure performed with a syringe and without incisions. Lip filler affects both the upper and lower lips, while lip lift only raises the upper lip to create a voluminous appearance. Lip lift is a permanent solution.

Lip Lift

  • Surgical Procedure
  • Upper Lip Only
  • Lifetime Permanent

Lip Filler

  • No Incision, Administered with a Syringe
  • Both the Upper and Lower Lips
  • Temporary Procedure

The most suitable procedure to meet the individual’s needs is determined through a mutual discussion between the doctor and the patient. The aim of both procedures is for the individual to achieve their ideal lip shape and to correct any lip deformities. Since each person’s desires, lip structure, facial proportions, and expectations are different, the most appropriate solution will also vary.

dr.leyla arvas
Author : Op. Dr Leyla ARVAS

Dr Leyla Arvas is an internationally recognised specialist in aesthetic surgery based in Istanbul. Graduated in 1998 from Istanbul University Faculty of Medicine, she has developed her expertise by studying in Taiwan, Japan and Spain during her 20 years of experience.

This article February 13, 2025 was updated on
Editor: admin@quartz.com.tr