Our lips unfortunately are not spared the ravages of time and so as we get older, they get thinner. Advancements in cosmetic surgery mean that more and more people are resorting to fillers to get the look they desire, and while this is generally a safe procedure if you know where to go and follow the aftercare instructions, that doesn’t mean there aren’t potential risks. Here’s what you need to know before you make the decision to plump up your pout.
Do your research
This applies both to the doctor you choose to administer the fillers as well as what type of formula you would like, as they are all slightly different and yield different results. When it comes to which aesthetician to use, the saying ‘you get what you pay for’ rings true, and you definitely don’t want to look for the cheapest one. Ask people, and Google, for recommendations on products and doctors.
Related: 5 Things a Plastic Surgeon Wants you to Know about Botox
Go for a consultation
So you found a doctor you think you like the look of? Before being jabbed with any needles, make an appointment where you speak to them about the procedure, find out what your options are and get their professional input. Not only will this be an opportunity to get a feel for the place but you will also be able to have any niggling questions answered so that you can make an informed decision.
Know your stuff
As far as cosmetic surgery goes, fillers are not unbearably painful. Numbing cream is generally applied and left for a few minutes to get to work, after which the filler is injected. At worst this feels like a bee-sting and is followed by some pressure as the solution enters the skin. There might be some small bumps under your skin for a week or two afterwards which can be carefully smoothed out using your fingers and you may also experience bruising in the area.
Related: 6 Things an Anti-Ageing Skin Expert Would Never Do
Aftercare and touchups
For 48 hours after your procedure it’s important not to touch the lip area to avoid cross-contamination of any kind, and it’s also advisable to hold off on any exercise, as this speeds up the blood flow and can wreak havoc on your new fillers. Like your new lips? Touchups need to be done anywhere between three months to a year, depending on the type of filler you have and how you look after your new pout.
Poor results
Not happy with your new look? No problem – your doctor or aesthetician is able to dissolve the fillers before you even step out of their office by using the enzyme hyaluronidase, and most reputable practitioners will even do this at no extra cost if you are unhappy with their work. And remember, no fillers are permanent anyway, so the effects will wear off after a few months and you will look like your old self again.
Photo: iStock/Lyashik
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The post Want lip fillers? Here’s what you need to know before you go appeared first on Good Housekeeping.
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