Things to Know Before Getting Fillers in Lips

Megan

Actual patient treated with Juvederm Ultra XC in the lips. Results may vary. Picture Credit: Allergan

Lindsay

Actual patient treated with Juvéderm Volbella XC in the lips. Results may vary. Courtesy of Allergan

Krystal

Actual patient treated with Juvéderm Volbella XC in the lips. Results may vary. Picture Credit: Allergan

To clear up the confusion, Dr. Brian Hibler, board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group, answers the most common questions about lip filler—covering everything from the procedure itself to achieving natural, balanced results.

What Exactly Are Lip Fillers?

“Lip fillers are an injectable gel made of hyaluronic acid (HA)—a substance that naturally attracts water to add shape, definition, and hydration,” explains Dr. Hibler. Different HA fillers have different textures. “Some are designed for plump volume, while others focus on subtle shaping. When the right filler is placed in the right location, results are soft, flexible, and natural.”

What Types of Lip Fillers Are Commonly Used?

“The most popular fillers for lips include Juvéderm Ultra, Juvéderm Volbella, and Restylane Kysse,” says Dr. Hibler. “Your injector will select the right product based on your goals—hydration, shaping, or volume.”

How Do You Achieve Natural-Looking Lips?

Natural results are all about proportion and restraint. “Conservative dosing, a slightly fuller lower lip, and supporting the surrounding anatomy—like the vermilion border—are key,” Dr. Hibler explains. “Overdone” lips often occur when the wrong product is used, or when touch-ups happen too frequently. The best lip filler results are tailored to your features—not to a trend.

What Happens During a Lip Filler Appointment?

Your appointment starts with a customized lip filler plan based on anatomy, facial balance, and desired outcome. The treatment starts with the application of a topical numbing cream to the lips for comfort. “With topical anesthetic and lidocaine inside the filler, most patients find lip filler treatments surprisingly comfortable,” Dr. Hibler. “Next we clean the area thoroughly, then perform small micro-injections. Afterward, we gently mold the filler and apply ice.” You’ll see results immediately, though mild swelling may last 24–72 hours. “The final result appears around two weeks once everything has settled,” he adds.

Should I Bring Lip Inspiration Photos?

“You can bring ‘lip inspo’ as a reference, not a blueprint,” says Dr. Hibler. “Filters, lighting, and individual anatomy vary. We’ll interpret what you like—such as lift, definition, or hydration—and make it work for your face.”

What About the Overfilled Look on Social Media?

“A lot of influencers prefer the overfilled aesthetic,” notes Dr. Hibler. “But often those results come from unqualified injectors using too much product or placing it incorrectly. That can distort the lip instead of defining it.” His advice: “Focus on shape and balance. Your lip filler should harmonize with your natural features, not overpower them.”

How Long Do Lip Fillers Last?

Lip fillers typically last 6–9 months, depending on your metabolism and the filler used. You’ll gradually return to your natural lip shape over time. Many patients choose maintenance sessions once or twice a year to refresh their results.

Are There Any Side Effects?

“Common side effects include redness, swelling, tenderness, bruising, and minor lumps,” says Dr. Hibler. “Less commonly, patients may experience cold sore reactivation, delayed inflammation, or a rare blood vessel occlusion—something we can reverse immediately with an injectable enzyme.”

What’s the Best Aftercare Routine?

“Ice your lips right after treatment and again later that day to reduce swelling,” advises Dr. Hibler. Avoid strenuous exercise, pressure, or makeup on the lips for 24 hours. “Keep the area clean and avoid dental work for two weeks before or after filler,” he adds.

Can Lip Filler Be Reversed?

Yes! “Hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase,” says Dr. Hibler. “That flexibility makes them ideal—if you ever want to return to your natural shape, you can.”

Final Thoughts on Lip Fillers

When it comes to lip filler, the best results are subtle, balanced, and customized. “Enhancement should complement your natural features, not erase them,” says Dr. Hibler.

Ready to enhance your lips with confidence? Book your personalized consultation for lip filler at Schweiger Dermatology Group.

Dr. Brian Hibler is a board certified cosmetic and medical dermatologist in the Park Avenue office of Schweiger Dermatology in New York City. He completed his dermatology residency training at Cornell followed by a prestigious fellowship in lasers and cosmetic surgery at Harvard Medical School, Massachusetts General Hospital, and the Wellman Center for Photomedicine, one of the leading laser and cosmetics centers in the world.