These days it seems like everyone is getting lip fillers, from celebrities to your neighbor who suddenly has a lusher pout than lip gloss alone can produce. Others are exploring the relatively new world of laser lip plumping. Both can help you achieve fuller, more shapely lips. But what's your best choice for a runway-ready smile?
Lip Fillers: An Overview
Lip fillers are a type of dermal filler that is injected into the lip to add volume and definition. They can also help reduce the appearance of wrinkles around the mouth and create a more youthful look.
Lip injections are made from synthetic hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps keep skin hydrated and plump. Common brands include Restylane, Belotero, Volbella, Voluma, and Juvederm.
Judging by the number of people searching for lip fillers near me, injectables' surge in popularity isn't going anywhere. Nor should it! When performed by a qualified professional, lip injections are safe as well as sexy.
Laser Lip Plumping (LipLase)
Laser lip plumping is a non-invasive treatment that stimulates collagen regeneration, plumps up the lips, and improves color and definition. The technology is much newer but has already become a popular alternative to lip fillers.
The procedure works by delivering thermally induced laser energy to the lip area. This heat energy tightens the skin around the lips, creating a fuller look. Common brands include LipLase by Fotona and the newer ProDeep.
Laser lip treatment requires no needles or downtime, but it may take several sessions before you see the full effects of the treatment.
Which Lip Enhancement Is Right for You?
Like with most of these questions, the choice between lip fillers and laser lip plumping depends on your individual needs and preferences. So let's break down some of the factors that might influence your decision.
Results: Which Option Best Delivers on Its Promise?
Well, the two lip plumping procedures really make different promises.
LipLase is best for those who want more subtle results and are more interested in definition and contouring than volume. Lip fillers are the answer if your priority is volume and fullness. creating definition and contouring your lips, while lip fillers are better for adding volume and fullness. They can be used to achieve more subtle results, but they're also the only option for those who want more dramatic results.
The speed of results also differs. LipLase takes time. You'll see the best results about 4-6 weeks after treatment. Lip filler works immediately, but you may experience a little swelling that can take several days to subside fully.
Duration: How Long Does Lip Filler Last?
Lip fillers can last anywhere from six months to two years depending on the patient and the type of filler used. As with other injectables, some patients find that results last longer on repeated treatments.
The more defined pout offered by LipLase typically lasts up to six months with proper maintenance, but some people report results ranging from four months to one year.
Recovery: Which Takes Longer to Heal?
Generally speaking, lip fillers. Most people require zero recovery time with lip lasers. On the other hand, there's the potential for some bruising and swelling from lip fillers. We wouldn't advise scheduling the procedure the day before a big event. If you're getting the boost for a special occasion, schedule your fillers a couple weeks before to be safe.
Pain: Which Lip Procedure Hurts More?
For most people, the answer is lip fillers. Some report experiencing mild discomfort during LipLase, but with the proper anesthesia, you should be fine.
Your injector should help you avoid some of the potential pain with lip fillers, but you're still sticking a needle into some very delicate skin. It will likely hurt a little, and your lips might ache for the rest of the day.
Side Effects: Which Lip Plumping Treatment Has the Least Danger for Unwanted Extras?
In general, LipLase. The laser lets you side step the most common side effects of injections. These include swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness at injection sites. Also, if you choose your injector poorly, you can wind up with lumpiness or asymmetry.
BUT LipLase is NOT for people with skin prone to hyperpigmentation. (Nor is any laser treatment.)
Safety: Which Procedure Is Safer?
When they are offered by highly trained and highly qualified professionals, both procedures are safe.
Be aware than Minnesota regulations concerning medical aesthetics are developing more slowly than we could wish. It's up to you to ask your injector the right questions.
Price Tag: How Much Do Lip Treatments Cost?
The relative cost is harder to calculate than first appears. The price of lip fillers depends on the type of filler being used. Not all fillers are created equal — and they don't come with equal price tags.
People also will purchase different amounts depending on the results they want. Some providers offer doses as low as 0.5 ml — or even less — for patients who only want to add a little boost to either the top or bottom lip in order to even out the appearance. On the other hand, a full top and bottom lip treatment often requires 2 ml.
With all of that variance, the price of lip fillers can range anywhere from $400-$2000.
At $350, a single treatment of LipLase is more affordable. But providers usually recommend an initial series of three monthly treatments. Ideal maintenance requires treatment every three months. Also, package pricing is often available.*
*Side bar: we know med spa treatments can be expensive, reflecting the price of the machines or injectables. Always always inquire about ongoing promotions and package pricing.
Other Lip Plumping Alternatives
Not really feeling like either of these suits your lip needs? You might want to check out one of these alternatives to lip fillers:
Lip Tattoo AKA Lip Blush. Add semi-permanent color (lasts 3-5 years) to make pale lips more visible.
Lip Flip. Make lips seem larger with Botox injections around the mouth. The muscles relax and the lips turn outward, accentuating your pout.
Lip Lift. If you really want a permanent solution, you can investigate this plastic surgery option. By removing some of the skin above your lip, a surgeon can make your top lip look larger. Be warned, though. Your teeth will show while resting.
ABSMedSpa: Safe and Effective Lip Enhancement in Apple Valley
There you have it, the details you need to make the right choice for you. Lip fillers and LipLase are both strong options for those who want to restore youth to their lips or increase their volume. If you're interested in LipLase, contact Dr. Britney Green at Strong Ties Oral Health.