Permanent Lip Fillers

There are many candidates that will not require a surgical procedure and only require subtle refinement of lip fullness, projection, and eversion. This group of candidates is ideal for lip filling. For patients that prefer non-invasive procedures over surgical, permanent lip fillers offer candidates an enduring solution for lip volume.

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The Skinny

avg. recovery: 5 days
permanence: Is permanent
Type: Injected
surgical: No
cost: $550 - $2000

About the Procedure

Last Updated: 06.03.2020

Over correction or over injection is not recommended with permanent fillers and therefore successive treatments every 2-3 months may be required to reach the desired final effect. Unlike temporary or semi-permanent fillers, the material used for injection will not degrade in the body, allowing for prolonged volume. There are various permanent filling agents which contain polymethylmethacrylate microspheres, silicone, or hydrogel polymers that can persist indefinitely in tissue. Bellafill, formerly Artefill, (from polymethylmethacrylate microspheres) is the only commercially available permanent filling agent approved by the FDA, and this approval is limited to its use for nasolabial folds. However, the PMMA filler has been used for a variety of other indications. Bio-Alcamid is composed of polyalkylimide gel which is a large volume filler initially used for lipodystrophy candidates. After injection it can be molded for the first 2 weeks after which a thin fibrous capsule forms which remains soft to the touch. This filling agent is only used for lip bulk and should not be used to define the vermillion or add lip definition. Many providers do not offer permanent lip fillers as they do not dissolve in the body, lending to difficult removal if the patient is not satisfied with their results. Some states and countries have outright bans on permanent fillers. It is important to consult with your provider as to what filler is right for your needs.

Plump lips are often desired for a more youthful appearance. Permanent lip fillers seek to fill thin lips.

Concerns

Permanent Lip Fillers addresses concerns such as:

Lip Augmentation

What to Expect

Permanent fillers provide patients with enduring lip volume. Here is a quick guide for what to expect before, during, and after semi-permanent lip fillers.

Before Treatment

Stop taking blood thinning medications for 2 weeks
No alcohol 24 hours prior
Reschedule if a rash, blemish, or cold sore develops in the area
An antiviral medication may be prescribed

During Treatment

Injection sites are marked
Local anesthesia numbs the injection sites
Filler is administered into the dermal layers of the vermillion and/or mucosa of the lips

Recovery Notes

After lip augmentation with permanent fillers, patients will be advised to not massage or manipulate the treated area. Do not engage in any strenuous physical activity for at least 6 hours after treatment. If you experience any redness or swelling a cool compress may be used. Sleep with the head in an elevated position to reduce swelling.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate for lip fillers does not require a surgical procedure and only requires subtle refinement of lip fullness, projection and eversion.

Not Recommended For

Lip fillers are not recommended for candidates who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Side Effects

Side effects from lip fillers can include pain, bruising, asymmetry or nodule formation. There is always the risk that filler alone is inadequate to augment the lips and those candidates should be considered for surgery. The serious complication of injectable fillers is intravascular injection leading to skin necrosis. Immediate regional blanching, a reticulate, purple discoloration of the skin, or significant pain following treatment may indicate impending tissue necrosis.