Lip fillers are non-invasive injectable treatments using hyaluronic acid-based substances to add volume, shape, and smoothness to the lips, addressing concerns like thinness, asymmetry, or age-related deflation. This procedure is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their natural lip features due to genetics, aging, or environmental factors, and it focuses on achieving soft, authentic results that complement facial harmony and boost self-expression, drawing from insights gained through thousands of patients over the years.
Key Benefits
- Natural-looking volume that enhances lip fullness without an overdone appearance.
- Smoother contours and diminished wrinkles around the mouth for a refreshed smile.
- Quick, customizable enhancements that align with your unique facial aesthetics.
What to Expect
Consultations involve a detailed review of your lip structure, concerns, and goals, often using imaging to preview potential outcomes. The treatment typically lasts 15 to 30 minutes under topical numbing, with precise injections to add volume and shape. Recovery allows immediate return to most activities, with minor swelling or bruising resolving within a few days as final results settle. Costs start around $600 to $900 per syringe, varying based on the amount used and any combined treatments.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience at Cary Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC, I have administered lip fillers to thousands of patients, earning multiple "Voted Best Plastic Surgery" awards in the area. This treatment is especially rewarding for those desiring subtle lip enhancement, often transforming smiles by restoring lost volume from aging or creating better balance for naturally thin lips. From my practice, I have observed that many patients achieve the best outcomes when fillers are used conservatively to avoid unnatural "duck lips," and combining with treatments like Botox for perioral wrinkles addresses comprehensive concerns around the mouth.
Why Choose Dr. Hanna?
With over 30 years and thousands of lip filler treatments, I've perfected techniques that deliver soft, natural enhancements without the 'overfilled' look, focusing on symmetry and movement to preserve your authentic smile.
Patients often rave about the confidence boost from subtle volume that feels like their own lips, just better. As a multiple award-winner for Best Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC, I emphasize your unique lip anatomy and consider shape, proportion, and skin quality for personalized plans that may integrate with other injectables for harmonious facial rejuvenation.
Benefits of Lip Fillers
From my experience, lip fillers do more than add volume—they refine your natural features for a vibrant, expressive smile. Key benefits include:
- Increased fullness and definition for balanced, youthful lips.
- Smoothing of vertical lines around the mouth from aging or habits.
- Customizable results that enhance without altering your inherent shape.
- Hydration boost from hyaluronic acid for softer, more supple texture.
- Quick confidence lift; many patients feel more photogenic and social.
- Long-term perks come from maintenance, keeping enhancements fresh.
Visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website for more information on dermal fillers.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates are healthy adults seeking subtle lip enhancement, often due to thin lips, asymmetry, or volume loss from aging. Success is highest in those with:
- Realistic goals for natural plumping rather than dramatic change.
- Good overall health; non-smokers for better healing.
- No active cold sores or certain allergies to fillers.
- You should be free from conditions like bleeding disorders. If seeking longevity, we discuss options; not ideal for those wanting permanent changes (ask us about surgical alternatives).
Schedule a Consultation to find out if you're a candidate.
Lip Fillers, Step-by-Step
The treatment is done in-office with topical numbing, lasting 15-30 minutes. Steps include:
- Consultation:
Discuss goals, assess lips, select filler.
- Preperation:
Cleanse area, apply numbing cream.
- Injection:
Precise placement with fine needle for volume/shape.
- Refinement:
Massage for even distribution.
- Completion:
Apply ice; provide aftercare tips.
Results appear immediately, refining over days.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery is swift and many patients resume activities immediately, with full settling in days. Based on my protocols:
- First 24-48 hours: Ice to reduce swelling/bruising; avoid strenuous activity, alcohol.
- Week 1: Gentle lip care; no excessive heat or pressure.
- Beyond: Hydrate lips; touch-ups as needed.
Tips for recovery:
Avoid kissing/straws initially. Long-term: Sunscreen on lips; annual reviews for maintenance.
Risks & Complications
Risks are low but may include temporary swelling, bruising, or tenderness. Rare risks are asymmetry or migration.
We screen for allergies and discuss health history to minimize risks.
Benefits typically outweigh risks for well-suited candidates, with informed consent ensuring peace of mind.
** Individual results vary
Cost & Financing
We will always provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Lip Fillers typically start at $600 per syringe and includes consultation and follow-up. Pricing varies depending on the filler amount/type.
We offer financing through CareCredit and accept major cards. During consultation, get a custom quote; insurance may cover if medically necessary.
Schedule a consultation and we'll provide you with a personalized quote for lip fillers.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does lip filler treatment take? About 15-30 minutes in-office.
- What type of anesthesia is used? Topical numbing cream may be used to help ensure comfort.
- Will lip fillers leave marks? No scarring but you will see small "pinholes" at the injection site that will completely heal. Bruising may occur and then fade away.
- Can I combine with others? Yes, like Botox for lines.
- How long do results last? Results may vary but generally speaking, lip fillers can last between 6-18 months, depending on type.