Many people wish for full, even lips. Some want more volume, others a clearer contour, still others balance an asymmetry or soften fine lines above the upper lip. With hyaluronic acid this can be achieved in a targeted way – provided that amount and technique suit the face.
Treatment at Alpha Skin: Lip filler in Bonn – price from €179 and appointment
This article explains how lip filler works, what makes sense, how long it lasts and what it costs.
What is possible with hyaluronic acid
- Volume: gently more fullness, matched to the proportions of the face
- Contour: a clearer lip line and an emphasised Cupid's bow
- Symmetry: balancing uneven lip halves
- Moisture: softer, smoother lips with fewer fine lines
- Corners of the mouth: slightly lifted corners of the mouth look friendlier
Hyaluronic acid is a substance the body produces itself, which binds water. For the lips, soft gels are used that feel natural and move along.
How much makes sense?
For the first treatment half a millilitre to one millilitre is usually enough. It is better to begin carefully and add more after a few weeks if needed than to introduce too much at once. As a rough guide, the lower lip is somewhat fuller than the upper lip. More important than formulas, however, is that the lips suit the face.
Preparation
A few days beforehand, avoid alcohol and blood-thinning painkillers if possible, unless they are prescribed by a physician. This reduces bruising. Do not plan the treatment directly before an important occasion; two weeks' distance is ideal. Come without make-up if possible so that the skin around the mouth can be disinfected well.
How the treatment works
- Consultation: The physician looks at lips, teeth and facial proportions and discusses with you whether volume, contour or both are the focus.
- Anaesthesia: An anaesthetic cream acts for about 20 minutes; the filler itself also contains an anaesthetic.
- Treatment: The hyaluronic acid is introduced with a fine needle or cannula and shaped. This usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
- Check-up: After about two weeks the result can be assessed and, if needed, finely supplemented.
Swelling and healing
Lips swell markedly after the treatment, especially on the first and second day. The result then looks fuller than it will stay. After three to four days most of it has subsided, after about two weeks you see the final result. Bruises are common on the lips and can be covered with make-up.
In the first 24 hours you should avoid sport, sauna, alcohol and strong kissing. Cooling helps against the swelling; never put ice directly on the skin, though.
Fine lines above the upper lip
Fine vertical lines above the upper lip arise from muscle movement, thinning skin and often from smoking. Very soft hyaluronic acid, introduced finely into the skin, can soften them. Sometimes a small amount of botulinum toxin is used in addition. Whether that makes sense for you depends on the depth and cause of the lines.
How long it lasts
On the lips hyaluronic acid usually lasts six to twelve months, because the mouth moves constantly. After that a refresher is possible, which often needs less material than the first treatment.
Risks and side effects
Swelling, tenderness and bruising are common. Occasionally small nodules form, which usually improve with massage. Anyone who is prone to cold sores should say so beforehand; the treatment can trigger an outbreak, and a preventive tablet can make sense. Very rarely, filler can block a blood vessel; severe pain or a white or bluish discolouration after the treatment need immediate medical treatment.
If the result is not as desired, hyaluronic acid can be dissolved with the enzyme hyaluronidase. More on this under Hylase.
When treatment is not carried out
Treatment is not carried out during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in the case of an acute cold sore, in cases of inflammation in the mouth area and in the case of an allergy to components of the filler. Filler should likewise not be injected shortly before dental treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Can you tell that my lips have been done? With a restrained amount and suitable technique, lips look fuller but not artificial. An exaggerated result usually arises from too much material at once.
Does it hurt? With anaesthetic cream and the anaesthetic in the filler, the treatment is usually quite bearable.
What about "Russian Lips"? That is a technique in which the lips are built up more in height than forwards. Whether it suits you depends on the initial shape and is discussed in the consultation.
Can I have lips and wrinkles treated in one appointment? Often yes. The difference between filler and botulinum toxin is explained in the article Hyaluronic acid vs. Botox®.
How often does it have to be topped up? Usually after six to twelve months. Many have the lips refreshed before the effect has worn off completely; then less material is often enough.
Can I eat and drink normally after the treatment? Yes. You should avoid hot drinks and very spicy food on the first day; drinking with a straw can feel unfamiliar at first.
Cost
Lip filler starts at Alpha Skin from €179. The final price follows the German medical fee schedule (GOÄ) and the amount. Health insurers do not usually cover aesthetic treatments. You will find procedure, prices and appointments on the page Lip augmentation. The Alpha Skin practice is located at Theaterplatz 1b in Bonn-Bad Godesberg.
Important medical note
The information described is for general education and does not replace personal medical advice, examination or consultation. Whether a treatment is suitable depends on skin type, initial findings, pre-existing conditions, medication and individual goals.
Effect, durability, tolerability and possible side effects can vary from person to person. Specific results or a particular time course cannot be guaranteed.