What Are Lip Fillers and How Do They Work?
Lip fillers are injectable treatments designed to enhance the appearance of the lips by increasing volume, improving shape, or smoothing fine lines around the mouth. Most lip fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps maintain moisture and elasticity in the skin. When injected, the filler adds volume by drawing water to the treated area, creating fuller, plumper lips. The treatment is highly customizable, allowing patients to achieve subtle or dramatic changes based on their preferences.
The procedure is minimally invasive and typically performed in under an hour. A trained provider uses a fine needle to inject the filler into specific areas of the lips to achieve the desired shape and symmetry. Because hyaluronic acid is biocompatible, it is gradually absorbed by the body over time, making the treatment temporary but safe. Modern lip fillers also contain lidocaine, a local anesthetic, to minimize discomfort during the procedure. The effects are immediately visible, but the final results become apparent after any initial swelling subsides, typically within a few days.
