How long does lip filler last?

What lip filler is made of

Most lip fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a sugar molecule your body already makes, which holds water and gives skin its plumpness. In a filler, it’s formulated as a smooth gel that adds volume, shape or hydration where it’s placed. Many lip fillers also contain a small amount of local anaesthetic (lidocaine) to make treatment more comfortable.

Because it’s hyaluronic acid, it’s gradually absorbed by the body, and if needed, a practitioner can dissolve it with an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

What affects how long it lasts

• The product. Fillers are made with different gel firmness. Softer gels suit lips and move naturally; they generally don’t last as long as firmer gels used elsewhere.
• How much is placed. A subtle first treatment may fade sooner than a fuller one.
• Your metabolism. People who are very active, or who naturally break products down faster, may see filler fade sooner.
• Movement. Talking, eating and smiling all move the lips, which is part of why lip filler lasts less time than cheek filler.
• Repeat treatments. Many people find later treatments last a little longer.

Does lip filler hurt?

Most people describe it as pressure and a pinch, not pain. Numbing cream, the anaesthetic built into most fillers, and a careful technique keep it comfortable. Lips feel tender and full for a day or two afterwards.

The first two weeks

When	What’s normal
Day 1 to 2	The most swelling. Lips may look uneven or bigger than the final result. Tenderness, possibly small bruises.
Day 3 to 7	Swelling goes down noticeably. Bruises fade.
Week 2	Filler has settled and softened. This is your real result.
Week 2 to 4	Your follow-up, if one is planned, to check the result.

Aftercare

• Use a cold compress gently for the first day.
• Skip strenuous exercise, saunas, steam rooms and hot yoga for about 48 hours.
• Avoid alcohol for about 24 hours; it can increase swelling and bruising.
• Don’t press, massage or pinch your lips unless your practitioner asks you to.
• Contact us straight away if you notice severe or increasing pain, skin that turns pale, dusky or blotchy, or anything that worries you.

Do lip fillers go away?

Yes. Hyaluronic acid filler breaks down gradually, and your lips return to how they were before. That’s why most people book a top-up every six months to a year to keep their result. If you ever want it gone sooner, hyaluronic acid filler can be dissolved.

Planning filler around Calgary events

Give yourself at least two weeks before a big day. That covers the swelling, any bruising, and time for a follow-up. A few Calgary timings to think about:

• Weddings in the mountains in summer and early fall: book filler about a month before, so photos show the settled result.
• Stampede in early July: book in early to mid June.
• Winter sun trips: allow the full two weeks so swelling doesn’t meet salt water and sun on day three.

And if you’re planning to enjoy the sauna as a Mood. client, give it a couple of days after filler.

Who performs lip filler at Mood?

Injectables at Mood are medical treatments, booked through our medispa after a consultation. Your consultation covers your health history, medications and goals, and it’s the time to ask every question.

Questions we hear

How much filler do I need for lips?

It depends on your lips and your goals. Many people start small and build over time; we’ll talk it through at your consultation.

How long do lip fillers take to settle?

About two weeks. Swelling can make lips look uneven for the first few days, so don’t judge the result before then.

Can I get lip filler if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

Treatment is usually postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tell us at your consultation.