Injectables & Fillers

What Are the Different Types of Lip Fillers?

Lip fillers are an incredibly popular aesthetic treatment because they provide natural-looking and long-lasting results, making them an excellent non-invasive choice to plump your pout easily. Whether you want fuller, more symmetrical lips or want to reduce the look of wrinkles around your lips, if you find yourself Googling “what are the different types of lip fillers,” we can help you navigate your options at Coastal Aesthetics.

What Is Filler?

The term “filler” refers to dermal fillers used for cosmetic purposes. They typically contain substances like hyaluronic acid, calcium hydroxylapatite, and poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA), although the latter is not used to enhance the lips. However, hyaluronic acid fillers improve the lips’ shape, size, symmetry, and volume. Once injected into the lips, these fillers bind with water molecules, creating volume and structure.

While different brands of hyaluronic acid fillers can be injected into the lips, they all work similarly. The injected filler material integrates with the tissues to remain in place and gives long-lasting improvement. Some fillers may contain cross-linking agents or particles that help maintain their shape and prevent migration. 

Exploring Different Ingredients

Each filler type has unique properties, duration, and suitability for different aesthetic goals. Here are four of the most common types of fillers, although hyaluronic acid-based ones are the only type of filler safe to inject into the lips:

Hyaluronic Acid (HA)

HA is the most common ingredient in lip fillers, and brands like Juvederm (Ultra XC, Volbella) and Revanesse Lips+ use it. HA is a naturally occurring sugar in the body that binds to water, creating fuller, hydrated, and softer lips. HA-based fillers are preferred for their ability to provide natural-looking, flexible results. They can also be dissolved if adjustments are needed.

Calcium Hydroxylapatite (CaHA)

Radiesse is a dermal filler that uses CaHA, a thicker substance naturally found in bones, to provide structure and stimulate collagen production. Due to its dense composition, Radiesse is FDA-approved for facial contouring in areas like the cheeks and jawline but is not recommended for lip enhancement.

Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA)

Sculptra uses PLLA, a biodegradable synthetic substance that stimulates collagen growth. While effective for facial volume restoration, Sculptra is not used in the lips due to its gradual collagen-stimulating effects, so it is better suited to other facial areas.

Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA)

Bellafill contains PMMA microspheres in a collagen gel base, providing a semi-permanent solution for deeper lines and facial contouring. However, due to their long-lasting results and less flexible structure, PMMA fillers are not designed for use in the lips.

Trusted Brands at Coastal Aesthetics

When it comes to lip fillers, Coastal Aesthetics is pleased to offer both Revanesse and Juvederm fillers.

Revanesse

Revanesse is a brand of dermal fillers known for its commitment to providing natural-looking and long-lasting results. The formulations within the Revanesse brand of fillers are crafted with precision to address various facial concerns and the lips.

Revanesse® Lips™+ is an FDA-approved hyaluronic acid dermal filler designed specifically for lip augmentation in patients aged 22 and older. It aims to restore lost volume and create fuller-looking lips. Clinical studies have shown that 98.1% of patients reported minimal or no swelling in the first month after treatment, and both patients and providers have noted high satisfaction rates with the results.

Juvederm

For anyone researching different types of lip fillers, Juvederm is a name most people recognize. It is a well-established and widely recognized brand in the world of dermal fillers. Known for its comprehensive range of products, Juvederm utilizes HA-based formulations to target specific aesthetic goals. Juvederm fillers are often categorized into different product lines, each tailored to address particular concerns like fine lines, volume loss, or lip enhancement. 

  • Juvederm Ultra XC: This filler provides fuller volume and is ideal for individuals seeking a more noticeable lip enhancement. It’s often chosen for its ability to create plumper, hydrated lips with long-lasting results (typically 9-12 months).
  • Juvederm Volbella XC: This option offers a softer, subtler lift, perfect for adding delicate volume or smoothing fine lines around the lips. VVolbella is especially popular for its natural-looking finish and ability to smooth fine lines around the lips.

What To Know Before Getting Lip Filler

Before getting lip filler, it’s essential to consider the following points:

  • During your consultation, discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have
  • Understand the potential risks and side effects associated with lip filler like swelling, bruising, infection, allergic reactions, and asymmetry
  • While lip filler can enhance the volume and shape of your lips, results may vary, so touch-up treatments may be needed
  • Be prepared for the recovery process, which may include swelling, bruising, and tenderness
  • Follow your provider’s post-treatment instructions carefully, and avoid activities that could increase swelling or disrupt the filler placement

How Is It Administered?

Lip fillers are administered using tiny needles, contributing to a relatively comfortable and minimally invasive experience for patients. The needles used during the procedure are fine-gauge and carefully selected to ensure precision when injecting the filler into targeted areas of the lips. The small size of these needles also helps to minimize discomfort and reduce the risk of bruising or swelling at the injection sites.

Before the procedure, we apply a topical numbing cream to the treatment areas to help ease discomfort. The lips tend to be sensitive, but most clients describe the sensation as a pinch or pressure, and any discomfort is typically brief. 

FAQs

What is the Most Popular Type of Lip Filler?

The primary types of lip fillers include hyaluronic acid fillers, like Juvederm and Restylane, which provide volume and hydration.

What Happens After the Procedure?

Lip filler treatments are generally considered safe when performed by a qualified and experienced provider. During the procedure, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising, but these effects typically subside within a few days.

How Long Do the Results Typically Last?

The results of lip fillers can last anywhere from 6 to 12 months, depending on the type of filler used and individual factors like metabolism.

Why Should I Choose Coastal Aesthetics For Lip Enhancement?

At Coastal Aesthetics, Kimberlee Smith and the Coastal team will help you feel comfortable designing a customized treatment plan based on your aesthetic goals for the perfect pout. If you are ready to see what a difference Coastal Aesthetics can make for you, we invite you to book your consultation online and start your journey to a better you today!

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