What we can consider with lip fillers

Size

A patient with small lips may want to add volume to create a more balanced size to the lips with dermal filler. Younger patients may be looking for ‘beautification’ or enhancement of their lips.

Proportion

Some patients may have an imbalanced lip proportion, which filler can address.

Lip Border & Shape

As we age, we tend to lose structure in the lip. This is evidenced by the loss of the border and projection resulting in a flat, curled in appearance to the lip. Some patients may wish to define the cupid’s bow and philtral columns using lip filler.

Perioral Rejuvenation

The area around the mouth is prone to loss of bone, resulting in hollowing and atrophy of soft tissue, which can cause peri-oral wrinkles and jowls. If the lips are treated without consideration of the peri-oral area, this can sometimes lead to an unnatural aesthetic outcome.

The area around the lip is often treated with cosmetic injectables such as dermal filler, anti-wrinkle injections or a combination of both.

Benefits of dermal lip fillers

Lip fillers, typically composed of hyaluronic acid, can restore lost volume and make changes to the shape of the lips. They also offer a non-surgical solution for those seeking to address the symmetry of their lips.

Another benefit of lip fillers is that they allow for personalised results. The treatment can be tailored to the individual’s preferences, creating a subtle or dramatic change.

Lip filler treatments are minimally invasive and require little to no downtime. Unlike surgical procedures, which can be more complex and involve significant recovery time, lip fillers are typically performed with minimal discomfort. Patients can resume their regular activities shortly after the treatment, making lip fillers a convenient and time-efficient cosmetic option.

Ideal candidates for lip filler treatments

Candidates for lip fillers may want to add volume to their lips or wish to address specific lip shape or symmetry concerns. Those with asymmetrical lips may find lip fillers beneficial, as the treatment can balance the proportions.

The procedure can be customised to address specific concerns, such as unevenness or disproportionate lip size, based on the patient’s goals and facial features.

Lip fillers are also suitable for those who are looking for a non-surgical solution. It avoids the specific risks and longer recovery time associated with surgical interventions.

Fillers can be a suitable option for individuals seeking temporary results. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, commonly used for lip augmentation, are biodegradable and gradually absorbed by the body over time. This feature allows patients to evaluate the results and decide whether to maintain the results through periodic touch-up treatments or let the effects naturally diminish.

Candidates for lip fillers should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes. Dr Allison will thoroughly assess if lip fillers suit the individual’s specific needs and medical history. Patients with certain medical conditions or allergies may not be eligible for lip fillers.

What a treatment session looks like

At the beginning of the treatment session, the lips are cleaned with antiseptic and numbing cream is applied. This is allowed to sit for 15 to 20 minutes to achieve good anaesthesia.

After the numbing has taken effect, Dr Allison will carefully clean the lips to create a sterile environment. They may also mark specific points on the lips to guide the placement of the filler, ensuring symmetry. There are various techniques used to achieve different outcomes. However, the most common is to use a needle to inject filler as required.

He may use a combination of techniques to work towards your goals, such as adding volume to the body of the lips, emphasising the cupid’s bow, or defining the vermillion border. The injection process itself is relatively quick, typically taking only 15 to 30 minutes. You may experience some mild pressure or slight stinging sensation throughout the session, but discomfort is usually minimal due to the prior numbing.

Once the right volume and shape are achieved, your lips may be massaged to ensure even filler distribution and help reduce the risk of lumps or bumps.

Your consultation with Dr Scott Allison in Brisbane

During your consultation for lip fillers with Dr Allison, you can expect a comprehensive discussion focused on understanding your goals and concerns.

Dr Allison will begin by asking some questions about your medical history, including any allergies, past cosmetic procedures, or medical conditions that may impact the suitability of lip fillers for you. He will then inquire about your specific goals and expectations regarding the treatment outcome. This conversation is essential to ensure you and your doctor understand what you hope to achieve with the lip fillers.

Next, Dr Allison will thoroughly examine your lips and facial features. This assessment allows him to evaluate his lips’ current shape, volume, and symmetry, identifying any asymmetries or other factors that could influence the treatment approach. The examination helps tailor the lip filler treatment to your unique facial anatomy, ensuring a personalised result. Understanding lip anatomy is an essential part of the treatment process.

The lips are a specialised feature of the lower face that is comprised of wet and dry mucous membranes, connective tissue and muscles. The structure and anatomy of the lip are vitally important to keep in mind when injecting lip filler.

During the consultation, Dr Allison will explain the different types of lip fillers available, mainly the hyaluronic acid-based fillers commonly used for lip augmentation.

He will discuss the benefits and characteristics of each filler type, explaining how they vary in terms of longevity, texture, and ability to achieve specific results. This information will empower you to decide which filler option aligns best with your preferences.

He will also discuss the procedure itself, including the steps involved, the expected duration of the treatment, and the level of discomfort you may experience during the injection process. He will take the time to answer any questions or concerns you may have about the procedure, ensuring that you feel comfortable and well-informed before proceeding.

During your consultation, you’ll receive a personalised treatment plan, that will also help to determine your treatment costs. Since the treatments are personalised, costs are also personalised and must be calculated according to your needs.

Dr Allison will discuss the potential side effects, such as swelling or bruising, and the rare but possible complications to ensure you have a realistic understanding of what to expect after the treatment.

He will explain the aftercare instructions, the expected recovery process, the longevity of the lip fillers, and when you may need touch-up treatments to maintain the results over time.

Lip filler procedure aftercare

Recovery after lip filler treatment is generally quick, allowing most patients to resume regular activities, including work. However, it’s normal to experience mild bruising or swelling in the treated area. Any discomfort is usually minimal and over-the-counter pain relievers can usually be used if needed.

Aftercare instructions are crucial to minimise any potential side effects. Avoid wearing makeup or applying lipstick to the treated lips for the first four hours after the procedure. This allows the filler to settle properly and reduces the risk of infection.

After treatment, strenuous exercise should be avoided for 24 hours. This precaution helps prevent excessive blood flow to the lips, which can contribute to additional swelling or bruising.

Minimising alcohol consumption in the evening following the lip filler treatment can also help reduce the chances of experiencing bruising. Alcohol can dilate blood vessels, making bruising more likely in some individuals.

Applying ice to the treated area in short intervals can be beneficial to alleviate swelling and bruising further. The cold temperature helps constrict blood vessels and reduces inflammation.

Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet can lead to a smoother recovery. Proper hydration supports the body’s healing mechanisms, promoting faster recovery.

Costs of lip filler with Dr Scott Allison in Brisbane

The cost of a lip filler treatment can vary based on personal factors unique to each patient. The amount of filler required is the main factor, varying from patient to patient.

Patients with naturally thinner lips or those seeking more dramatic results may need larger quantities of filler, which can impact the overall cost. Some may seek only subtle improvements, requiring less filler.

The most popular lip filler is the 1ml option – balancing size, shape and long-lasting results. However, the right amount for you will be discussed during your consultation when creating your personalised treatment plan.

When determining the cost of a lip filler treatment, patients should consider these personal factors and work with Dr Allison to create a treatment plan that aligns with their goals and budget.

For more information on costs, please see our prices.

Possible risks and complications

After lip filler treatments, it’s common for patients to experience mild swelling, which usually subsides within a few days. Some individuals may also encounter slight discomfort, bleeding, or bruising in the treated area.

More complicated side effects like infections, asymmetrical results or lumpy results can occur, but infections can typically be avoided by following the aftercare instructions provided, and unsatisfactory results can sometimes be dissolved. Alternatively, the body metabolises unsatisfactory results over time and should not be permanent.

While rare, there have been reported cases in Australia of vascular injury where the filler is mistakenly injected into a blood vessel. This situation could lead to skin necrosis or visual loss. However, the risk of such complications can be significantly reduced through the injector’s in-depth understanding of facial anatomy and the implementation of proper injecting techniques. In the unlikely event of any signs of vascular injury, immediate dissolving of the filler is important.