A lip filler is dermal filler that is designed to add volume, smooth out creases and correct uneven lips. The filler is made of hyaluronic acid which naturally occurs in the body.

Because hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in the body, it is safe to use as a filler in most people. However, it is a cosmetic procedure and as such does carry some risks. Some people may be sensitive to the treatment or have a reaction. The desired results may also not always be exactly as expected and lumps or bumps may occur.

These risks are reduced when the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced practitioner. 

First, the treatment area is numbed using a topical gel, cream or treatment. Dental blocks may also be used to reduce sensation in the area. The filler is injected along the lip line using a very fine needle. The lips are then shaped. 

The procedure should not cause any discomfort or pain due to the application of numbing gel before the procedure. Some practitioners may use a dental block to entirely numb the entire lip area to reduce sensation. Many dermal fillers also contain numbing agents like lidocaine which further numbs the pain.

A small amount of bleeding can be expected at the site where the injection needle is inserted. The needle is however very fine resulting in minimal bleeding. Bleeding will stop on its own within a few seconds or minutes of the procedure.

When the needle is inserted into the lip, the body reacts and this causes swelling. However, swelling should be minimal and should go away naturally within a couple of hours. The amount of swelling is dependent on the technique used, the experience of the practitioner and the type of dermal fillers that are being used. Ice packs will help reduce the swelling faster.

The treatment usually takes around 20 minutes. This does depend on the expertise of the practitioner, the size of the site and the type of treatment. For greater lip volume, the procedure will take longer than correcting uneven lips.

Your lips may feel smoother after treatment and have a fuller sensation. However, there should be no bumps or lumps. If there are, a gentle massage of the area may relieve the problem. If not, return to your practitioner as soon as possible.

This depends on the type of filler that is used and following the aftercare instructions. The filler is absorbed by the body and therefore does not last forever. Commonly, the treatment should last between 6 and 12 months. There are permanent lip fillers available on the market that last much longer but are also eventually absorbed into the body. Most practitioners do not offer permanent lip filler treatment.