In recent years the number of people choosing to plump their pout has risen extraordinarily thanks to reality TV stars like Kylie Jenner, Charlotte Crosby and Lauren Pope.

Given their popularity, we thought we’d bust some of the myths and worries surrounding dermal fillers and provide you with everything you need to know before having them. So, here are the top 10 things you need to know before having lip fillers:

1. What are they made out of? 

Lip fillers can be made from a number of things including both natural and synthetic gels. Most are now biodegradable, which means, more often than not, most fillers are temporary. Whilst some places in the UK may use permanent fillers the general consensus is that temporary is the better option.

With over 150 brands on the UK market there’s a lot of choice but it’s likely you’ll be treated with collagen or hyaluronic acid (HA). Collagen simply plumps the limp but HA works by trapping water  within the lips for that more natural look. 

2. Will lip fillers feel different to natural lips?

If carried out by a trained professional your lips will of course feel naturally more plump dependent on how much filler you get but they shouldn’t feel widely different. If something doesn’t feel right, it usually means that it isn’t right.

3. How much filler do you need?

There is often the misconception that once you get lip fillers your lips will magically turn into the plump pout you’ve been craving. And, whilst this look can be achieved it might not be as quick as you think.

The amount of filler depends on the person and if you’re after a more natural look then it can involve multiple sessions in order to ‘build’ the look. Your consultant will discuss the details before the procedure. If you are someone who has very thin lips but wants to achieve a very full look then you will of course need more filler. 

4. How long do lip fillers last?

How long your lip fillers last will depend on a number of factors such as your age and the substance used in the filler. Using a hyaluronic acid based filler affects people differently as everybody breaks down the acid at different rates. Lips tend to be quicker than other parts of the body simply because they are used more. 

Typically, fillers can last anywhere in between 4 and 18 months but most people tend to need top-ups every 4 to 6 months to keep their desired look. 

5. Will it hurt?

The lips are a very sensitive part of the body and pain can vary. Some fillers contain a local anaesthetic within them and if not, your doctor may use an anaesthetic cream to numb the area beforehand. If done correctly, getting fillers won’t hurt but it may feel a tad uncomfortable.

6. When will I start to see results?

After any procedure that involves injection it is natural that there may be some swelling and redness. Any swelling or pinprick marks should settle within a few days and in the mean time you can use cold packs and arnica to stop the bruising. 

Any after effects should settle within the first 48 hours but it is always best to judge the before and after of lip fillers two weeks post-procedure.

7. What are the odds it will go wrong?

You often see countless stories of plastic surgery gone wrong or lip enhancement gone wrong but the reality is that lip filler risk is relatively low. It is very rare that you will run into complications when getting lip fillers. The acid used in fillers is naturally found in our bodies anyway so is not damaging to the skin. If you follow the advice of your practitioner and do your research then you shouldn’t have any problems. 

8. How much do lip fillers cost?

The cost of lip fillers can vary dependent on the amount of filler you need and the expertise of your professional. They can range anywhere from £150-£500 per ml.

9. Am I suitable for lip fillers?

Your practitioner will advise you on your personal case but here are a few things which might make you unsuitable for lip fillers:

• Illness: if you are at all unwell, even if you think it is just a cold, delay the procedure as any illness will increase post-treatment complications
• Cold sores: if you are prone to cold sores or currently have any around the mouth then any treatment will increase the risk of infection
• Pregnancy: women who are pregnant or breast feeding cannot receive lip fillers
• Bleeding problems: if you have any kind of bleeding problem or take medicine which affects bleeding like aspirin or warfarin then unfortunately it is best you stay away from lip fillers
• Medication: if you take certain medication then you will be prevented from having lip filler, especially any drugs that affect the immune system. In addition, if you have recently completed a course of Roaccutane (acne treatment) in the last 18 months then you are also prevented

10. What happens if I don’t like it?

Choosing to opt for hyaluronic acid fillers means you can use an enzyme called hyaluronidase to dissolve the acid before it does so naturally and therefore correct any errors. If you don’t like your new look there is always a way to fix it.

Lip fillers are a great way to enhance your natural look, just make sure you do your research first, choose a trusted practitioner and as always ask lots of questions!