Discover how you could have the beautifully plump pout of your dreams in just one quick, easy appointment.
Have you been considering getting lip fillers but aren’t sure what to expect when it comes to the duration of the procedure and recovery process?
At Ethos Spa, we understand that you likely have many questions about the timeline involved with lip augmentation.
In this in-depth guide, we will walk you step-by-step through what a typical lip filler appointment entails from start to finish, so you can feel fully prepared and know exactly what to anticipate.
What Exactly Are Lip Fillers?
Before delving into how long the process takes, let’s start with the basics.
Lip fillers, also known as lip injections or lip augmentations, are a popular non-surgical cosmetic treatment. Dermal filler products containing hyaluronic acid are carefully injected into the lips and areas around the mouth. This adds volume, shape and definition while enhancing the symmetry and proportions of the lips.
The most common brand names of dermal fillers used in the lips are Juvederm and Restylane. When expertly injected by an experienced cosmetic provider, lip fillers can give you plumper, more defined lips without the need for surgery.
Some of the areas that can be treated include:
- The vermilion border along the edges of the upper and lower lips
- Increasing fullness centrally in the upper or lower lip
- Augmenting specific areas like the cupid’s bow or philtrum ridges
- Softening vertical lip lines around the mouth
Now that you know the gist of what lip fillers are, let’s get into the details of how long the procedure takes from start to finish.
How Long Does a Lip Filler Appointment Usually Take?
If you’re thinking about scheduling a lip filler appointment, you probably want to know how long you’ll need to budget for it. The good news is that getting lip injections is a relatively quick in-office procedure.
Here’s a general timeline of what to expect:
- Consultation – You’ll meet with your provider for 15-30 minutes to discuss your cosmetic goals, review your medical history, and create a customized treatment plan.
- Numbing – A topical anesthetic cream will be applied to numb the treatment area for 10-15 minutes prior to injections. This maximizes your comfort.
- Injections – The actual injection process takes 15-30 minutes depending on how much filler is needed and the complexity of the areas being treated. Most patients require 1-2 syringes.
- Settling in – Your injector will gently massage the area to ensure the filler is evenly distributed. Plan to stay for observation for 10-15 minutes after injections.
- Total time – From walking in the door to walking out, plan for an appointment lasting 45 minutes to an hour. Of course, your provider will take as much time as you need to get the best, most natural looking results.
As you can see, the treatment itself is very quick. But what about post-procedure downtime? How long does it take for swelling to disappear and results to fully show?
What to Expect: Lip Filler Recovery Timeline
While the injections may only take 30 minutes or less, you’ll need to allow some time afterwards for healing as your lips recover. Here’s an overview of what to expect and how long results take to become visible:
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
| Immediately | Your lips are likely to be swollen, tender, and mildly bruised or red. Some unevenness or lumpiness may be noticeable. This is temporary! |
| Day 1 | Swelling and tenderness peaks. Use a cold compress and take OTC pain medication as directed by your provider. |
| Days 2-3 | Swelling should start improving, but bruising may darken before fading. Discomfort is usually minimal. |
| Days 4-7 | Noticeable improvements in swelling, lumpiness, and bruising. Your new lip shape emerges but full effects are still developing. |
| 1-2 weeks | Swelling completely resolves. Any bruising, redness, or tenderness should be gone. Your beautiful, plump lips are now ready for their close-up! |
Follow your provider’s aftercare instructions, including avoiding strenuous activities for 24 hours and using lip balm to keep your lips hydrated as they heal. With a little patience, you’ll be ready to show off your new look.
How Long Do Lip Fillers Last? Timeframe for Maintenance
Lip fillers don’t last forever. Depending on the type and amount of product used, results can last anywhere from 4 months to 2 years. But most patients need maintenance injections every 6 to 12 months to sustain results.
Why do lip fillers disappear over time? The hyaluronic acid gel filler gradually breaks down and is absorbed by your body. Different factors affect how long fillers last:
- Filler type – Denser, more cross-linked formulas like Restylane Kysse or Juvederm Voluma XC tend to have more longevity than lighter gels.
- Injection technique – The skill of your injector and placement of filler impacts how long it lasts.
- Amount injected – More filler equals longer lasting fullness. But a conservative approach is recommended for a natural look.
- Your metabolism – People with faster metabolisms absorb fillers quicker.
- Lip anatomy – Thin lips with little structural support absorb filler faster.
While individual duration varies, most patients choose to repeat their lip filler injections once or twice a year. Maintaining your results with regular touch ups is safe and effective. Talk to your cosmetic provider about a maintenance schedule to keep your lips looking fab.
How to Find a Qualified Lip Filler Injector
Now that you know what to expect in terms of lip filler timelines and recovery, it’s time to find a qualified cosmetic provider to partner with. Here are some tips for choosing a skilled injector:
- Look for an experienced injector with specialized training in lip fillers. Plastic surgeons, dermatologists and licensed nurse injectors are all options.
- Ask to see before and after photos from actual patients to assess their artistry and aesthetic.
- Select someone who listens to your goals and provides realistic guidance to create a customized treatment plan.
- Make sure they use FDA-approved fillers from reputable brands like Juvederm or Restylane.
- Beware of “lip filler deals” or injectors offering too-good-to-be-true discounts – safety should be the priority.
Take time to vet potential providers through consultations and online reviews. Choosing an expert injector minimizes risk and maximizes your chances of achieving beautifully done, natural looking lips.
The Takeaway: How Long Does It Take to Get Fabulous Looking Lips?
In summary, lip filler injections offer a fast, non-surgical avenue for enhancing your lips.
Treatment sessions are quick, with mild downtime over the first week as swelling and bruising resolve. Results emerge within two weeks and last 6-18 months for most patients. Maintenance touch-ups conveniently preserve your new lip volume and shape.
At Ethos Spa, our expert aesthetic physicians develop personalized lip filler plans designed to help you achieve your ideal lip shape, size and proportions in about an hour. Contact us today to schedule your consultation – your gorgeous new pout awaits!
