If you are considering lip augmentation, you may have Googled “how to prepare for lip filler appointment.”
Most lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a type of sugar the body naturally produces. The results are long-lasting but not permanent. Typically the results last six to 18 months, depending on the person.
Although the results are temporary, they are long enough that you likely want to ensure you have the best results possible.
People typically use lip filler to:
- Replace volume lost with age for a younger appearance
- Create fullness they always wanted
- Smooth fine lines around the mouth
- Enhance specific areas of the mouth
- Fix asymmetry
These days, many people are amazed at how simple lip injections can alter their appearance without surgery. Fillers can be used to enhance many parts of the face subtly or dramatically, depending on your goals.
Choose the Best Provider for Your Goals
The first step to preparing for lip filler is choosing the right provider. While many different kinds of cosmetic professionals are licensed to offer injection services, choose one with expertise and a good eye for facial proportion. The lips are complex. Think about how sensitive they are and how often they move when speaking, expressing, kissing a loved one, eating, or drinking.
There is an art to choosing the right type of filler for your goals and injecting just the right amount. Some professionals might mix two or more types of fillers depending on your goals.
Ask your potential provider about their experience and approach to injections. They should show you before and after photographs to give you a good idea of what to expect.
Clearly communicate your hopes and goals. If you want a subtle natural look, you would be disappointed if your provider overindulged in filler giving an amplified or dramatically full look.
Also, discuss the common and less common side effects with your provider. Often the more serious side effects are correlated with specific medications, health issues, or lifestyle choices. By informing your provider, you get a better idea of the actual risk unique to your situation. If your provider makes any recommendations, carefully follow their instructions even if they contradict this article or other information you see online.
How to Prepare in the Days and Weeks Leading to Your Injections
If you have acne, cold sores, chapped lips, or any irritation on or around the lips, don’t schedule an injection until after the condition heals. Talk with your doctor or provider for guidance on addressing the concerns and when to schedule your injections.
Also, avoid scheduling an appointment immediately following a dental appointment or vaccination just in case it leads to bacteria or inflammation around the mouth.
Avoid any unnecessary blood-thinning medications and supplements, including aspirin, fish oil, vitamin e, ginger, and more. This helps reduce the risk of bruising and swelling. If you are prescribed blood thinners, please inform your provider of your medications and health issues.
Also, don’t drink alcohol for at least 24 hours before your injections. If you smoke, quit at least temporarily. Smoking hinders your natural healing, and smoking after injections might introduce harmful bacteria and irritate the tender skin.
If you want to preemptively ease the pain, acetaminophen (such as Tylenol).
Arrive with a clean face and no makeup. If you have makeup or sunscreen on, be sure to clean your face.
Prepare to Heal from Your Injection
Since lip filler is a non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment, you shouldn’t experience significant downtime.
Still, you may experience swelling and discomfort for a few days. Mild bruising and swelling are also among the common side effects. Some of the preparation guidelines are to minimize that risk. Since different people respond to injectables differently, be sure to ask your provider about potential side effects and how you should prepare.
Stock up on ice; if you have any swelling, you may want to apply ice to reduce the inflammation. Take it easy and avoid strenuous exercise for the next 24 hours. In some cases, you may want to wait 48 hours after your injection before your next workout.
Some like to prepare for relaxation by updating their Netflix queue, downloading a few podcasts, and setting up a cozy relaxation station.
Plan to use an extra pillow so you can sleep comfortably with your head slightly elevated to discourage swelling.
As tempting as it may be, try to avoid touching your mouth for a couple of days to avoid introducing bacteria. Also, avoid applying makeup for 24 hours.
Plan your appointment for a time when you don’t have any dental appointments scheduled for at least two weeks. Also, plan to wait a week before any important meetings or photo-ready appointments.
Although you may enjoy relaxing in a sauna, hot yoga class, or hot tub, please avoid these activities for a few days following your injections.
You may be excited about your newly sensuous-looking mouth, but still, please avoid kissing for at least 48 to 72 hours to avoid introducing bacteria and irritating tender lips. You may still feel a little sore for a few days anyway. Plan your special date for when your lips are healed, and any extra swelling is gone.
Keep well hydrated by sipping water. Just be sure not to use a straw.
Schedule a Consultation
Your first step to your lip-enhancing injections is to schedule an appointment with one of our skilled and experienced master nurse injectors.
The Skin Center by CPS offers consultations to Charlotte-area residents and beyond who are considering cosmetic procedures such as injections. During this consultation, our certified providers can evaluate whether it is a good fit for you and answer any questions you may have. Contact us to schedule your consultation appointment today.
