Lip Fillers: Everything You Need to Know Before Your First Session
The Consultation Comes First
The most important part of a lip filler treatment happens before any needle touches your skin. At Leor, I spend significant time during the consultation understanding what you want and, just as importantly, what you do not want. "I want my lips to look like mine, just better" is the most common request I hear, and it is entirely achievable with the right approach.
I assess your natural lip proportions, facial structure, and skin quality to determine how much filler, what type, and where to place it. The golden ratio of lips (lower lip slightly fuller than upper, about 1:1.6) is a guideline, not a rule. Some faces look better with more symmetrical proportions. The goal is harmony with YOUR features.
What Happens During Treatment
We apply a topical numbing cream 15 to 20 minutes before treatment. Most modern lip fillers also contain lidocaine in the product itself, so comfort improves as the treatment progresses.
I use a combination of needle and cannula technique depending on the area being treated. Sharp needles give more precision for border definition and the cupid's bow. Blunt-tip cannulas are safer for volume addition in the body of the lip, reducing the risk of bruising and vascular complications.
The entire injection process takes 15 to 20 minutes. I add small amounts incrementally, assessing symmetry and volume at each stage. It is always easier to add more than to remove excess, which is why I advocate for a conservative first session.
Does It Hurt?
Honestly? You will feel it. The lips are sensitive. But with proper numbing, most patients describe the sensation as pressure and mild stinging rather than sharp pain. On a scale of 1 to 10, most rate it a 3 to 4. The anticipation is usually worse than the reality.
Aftercare and Recovery
Expect swelling for 24 to 48 hours. Your lips will look larger than the final result during this period, so do not panic. Some bruising is possible but not guaranteed. I recommend avoiding intense exercise, alcohol, and very hot foods for 24 hours. Sleeping slightly elevated the first night helps reduce morning swelling.
The final result is visible at 2 weeks, once all swelling has resolved and the filler has fully integrated with your tissue. This is when I schedule a follow-up to assess whether any touch-up is needed.
How Long Do Results Last?
Hyaluronic acid lip fillers typically last 6 to 9 months. Lip fillers metabolize faster than fillers in other facial areas because the lips are highly vascular and constantly moving. Most of my patients come in for a top-up every 8 to 10 months to maintain their result.
When NOT to Get Lip Fillers
I will decline to treat if: you have an active cold sore (risk of viral spread), you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you have unrealistic expectations, or you are seeking fillers to please someone other than yourself. Aesthetic treatments should always be for you.
At Leor
Our Lush Lips treatment uses premium hyaluronic acid fillers with a layered injection technique for natural-looking enhancement. We prioritize safety, symmetry, and subtlety. Book a consultation to discuss your lip goals and see what is achievable.