Considering lip enhancements? Our resident expert tells you everything you need to know.
Here at Broomhill Dental, we offer a wide range of non-surgical solutions to patients across Glasgow, including wrinkle relaxing, facial volumisers and lip enhancement. With ultra-full lips becoming more and more popular, more patients than ever before are turning to lip enhancements to give them the ultimate Kylie Jenner pout. But if you’re considering this for the first time, our expert practitioner Dr Robert McKernon is here to give you all the information you need.
1. What kind of lip enhancements should I get?
I would recommend temporary dermal fillers, which are what we use at Broomhill Dental. These are a great option because they give a soft, natural feel; plus, they can be reversed if you decide you’d like a smaller lip further down the line. If you love the result, regular top-ups will keep them looking amazing.
2. Are there any risks?
Although dermal fillers are referred to as a ‘lunchtime procedure’ (i.e a procedure which can be completed in less than an hour) you should still be made aware of the potential risks and complications as this is still quite an invasive procedure. Although any serious side-effects and complications are rare, I’ll talk you through potential risks before we get started, so you’ll be given all the information you require upfront.
3. How can I describe what I want?
Bringing photos or a wish list can give me better idea of what you would like to achieve from your lip enhancement. Sometimes it will take several procedures to fully achieve the look you are hoping for, but the more information you can give me, the easier this will be.
4. Will it hurt?
You’ll feel a little bit of prickling whilst injecting, and some slight pressure as the filler enters the lip area. Whilst it isn’t completely comfortable, it isn’t described by patients as being too sore. And it’s over and done pretty quickly.
5. How big will my lips be?
Don’t expect to walk away with giant lips after your first appointment. The aim is to build the volume gradually over time, ensuring the most natural results. You’ll almost certainly notice a difference after your first appointment, but the aim is not to look too ducky or inflated straight away. Plus, there is often quite a bit of swelling to start with, so the best thing to do is give your lips time to settle into a natural state before we consider adding more.
6. Do I need to do any preparation?
There are a couple of steps you can take which will help to prepare your lips for the procedure. If you’re using blood thinning medication or supplements (aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil and vitamin E), studies suggest you should stop taking this about 10 days prior to your appointment, as thinner blood can lead to increased bruising and bleeding. If you’re using prescribed medication and are unsure about what to do, feel free to give me a call and consult your GP. It’s also advisable to limit alcohol for about 10 days prior, and if you have a history of cold sores, I’d suggest you start taking your prevention medication a couple of days before the procedure, because it could trigger a flare-up.
7. What happens after the procedure?
Whilst you can continue to go about your daily business, your lips will likely be quite swollen after the initial procedure, and may or may not bruise and bleed a little. This is all entirely normal, and any bruising or swelling will usually subside after about 5-7 days.
I’d also suggest you don’t exercise for at least 24 hours after your procedure, and avoid activities that increase blood flow to your face. Getting a massage or facial can add to the swelling, too, so try to avoid for 24 hours or so.
8. How long will my new lips last?
About six months. For some people, this may be a little longer – and they may dissolve a little quicker in others. It really depends on your body’s metabolism, but when we start to see the dermal filler dissolve, we can top them up and have them back to looking full and natural in no time.
If you are considering lip enhancement, get in touch with Broomhill Dental now to discuss your requirements.