LIP FILLER
Lip Filler in Jacksonville, FL
At Luminess Med Spa in Jacksonville, FL, we are dedicated to illuminating your natural beauty. We understand everyone is unique, and we tailor our approach to help you achieve your desired aesthetic. Our lip filler service offers a safe and natural-looking way to enhance lip volume, define shape, and smooth wrinkles. We invite you to watch a short video testimonial from one of our valued clients to hear more about her experience.
Lip Filler Photos: Before & After
Answers to Your Questions About Lip Filler
General Information about Lip Fillers
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Lip fillers are injections that add volume to your lips. They are gel-like substances, typically composed of synthetic hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body. Lip fillers are a popular type of dermal filler used to achieve fuller, plumper lips.
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Upper lip: The area between the nose and lips.
Philtrum columns: Two vertical lines that run from the top of the lip to the nose.
Cupid's bow: The double curve in the middle of the upper lip.
Vermilion lip: The pigmented, visible part of the lip.
Vermilion border: The outline of the lip.
Wet-dry border: The line where the inner, moist part of the lip meets the outer, dry part.
Oral commissure: The corners of the mouth.
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Vermilion lip: To increase overall lip volume.
Vermilion borders: To define the shape of the lips.
Cupid's bow: To accentuate the shape or add volume.
Philtrum columns: To enhance definition and create a more youthful appearance.
Oral commissures: To lift downturned corners for a more pleasant expression.
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Volume control: The injector can control the amount of filler injected, allowing for customized volume enhancement.
Gradual treatment: Injections can be administered gradually over multiple sessions to achieve the desired results.
Easy dissolution of bumps: Lumps or irregularities can be easily dissolved.
Minimal bruising: Compared to other types of dermal fillers, hyaluronic acid fillers may cause less bruising and swelling.
Long-lasting results: While not permanent, the results can last for a reasonable duration.
Low allergy risk: Because hyaluronic acid fillers are made with substances similar to those in the body, they are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
Types of Lip Augmentation
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Lip fillers: This in-office procedure involves injecting a filler, often hyaluronic acid-based, into the lips to enhance volume and shape. The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes, and you can go home the same day. The effects usually last 6 to 8 months, after which you'll need additional injections to maintain your desired look.
Fat grafting: This procedure involves taking fat from your abdomen, purifying it, and injecting it into your lips for a more permanent augmentation. It takes about 60 to 90 minutes, and the results can last for at least 5 years.
Tissue grafting: Similar to fat grafting, this procedure involves using a piece of skin from your lower stomach or other areas instead of fat. The skin is rolled up and inserted into your lips. The effects can last at least 5 years.
Lip implants: A permanent option where implants of a chosen size are inserted under your lip fat and above your lip muscles through small cuts in the corners of your mouth. This in-office procedure takes about 30 minutes.
Lip lifts: Procedures focusing on altering the shape and position of the lips rather than adding volume:
Direct lip lift: Increases lip height and reduces the space between the lip and nose by removing skin from the upper lip.
Indirect lip lift: Hides scars at the base of the nose and aims to create a more pronounced "pout."
Lip corner lift: Elevates downturned corners of the mouth by removing small pieces of skin from the corners of the upper lip.
Duration and Maintenance
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Lip fillers generally last between 12 to 18 months, although this can vary depending on individual factors like metabolism and age. Younger individuals tend to metabolize fillers faster. Factors affecting duration include:
Age: Younger individuals may experience a shorter lifespan of fillers.
Metabolism: A faster metabolism can lead to quicker filler breakdown.
Lifestyle: Smoking and dehydration can shorten the lifespan of fillers.
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It usually takes about two weeks for lip fillers to fully settle and for the initial swelling to subside. A follow-up appointment is often scheduled to assess results and make any necessary adjustments.
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Needle vs. cannula: Using a cannula may reduce downtime.
Filler formula: Selecting the right filler based on flexibility, thickness, and longevity.
Follow-up appointments: For evaluation and touch-ups.
Complementary treatments: Botox lip flips or fillers in other facial areas can enhance overall results.
Cost Factors
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Type of procedure: Different procedures have varying costs.
Doctor's experience: More experienced practitioners may charge more.
Geographic location: Costs can vary by region.
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Lip filler syringe: $600 to $800.
Fat grafting: $3,000 to $4,000.
Tissue grafting: $3,000 to $6,000.
Lip implants: $2,000 to $4,000.
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Pricing for half a syringe isn't typically standardized. Please schedule a consultation so we can answer this and any other questions you have.
Procedure Details
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A topical numbing cream or nerve block injection is applied to minimize discomfort. You may feel a pinching sensation during injections. Mild pain at injection sites may last 12 to 24 hours afterward.
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Swelling: Generally subsides within 24 to 48 hours; may take up to a week to fully disappear.
Bruising: Usually fades within a few days.
Tip: Applying ice packs can help minimize swelling and bruising.
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We will provide you with specific instructions on massaging your lips to address any lumps or bumps. It's very important to adhere to this guidance carefully.
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Avoid using straws for at least 24 hours post-procedure. The sucking motion can displace the filler and hinder healing.
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Refrain from applying lipstick or any lip products for at least 24 hours after injections.
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Avoid kissing for at least 24 hours to prevent disrupting the filler and healing process.
Benefits and Pros/Cons
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Enhanced appearance: Increases lip volume, defines shape, and improves symmetry.
Boosted confidence: Many feel increased self-esteem post-augmentation.
Temporary results: Allows for adjustments or reversal if desired.
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Cost: Requires ongoing maintenance treatments.
Risk of lumps and migration: Improper techniques can cause issues.
Potential for unnatural results: Overfilling can lead to an overdone look.
Safety Considerations and Risks
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Anatomy knowledge: Injectors must understand facial anatomy to prevent complications like vascular occlusion.
Injection sites: Avoiding certain areas, like the wet-dry border, can mitigate risks.
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Common, temporary side effects:
Bleeding at injection sites
Swelling and bruising
Redness and tenderness
Cold sore reactivation
More serious, less common side effects:
Prolonged swelling or bruising
Asymmetry
Lumps and unevenness
Infection
Vascular compromise (tissue death)
Ulceration, scarring, stiffness
Allergic reactions
Possible side effects of lip implants:
Implant displacement
Implant extrusion (very rare)
Infection (rare)
Need for adjustments
Fluid buildup (rare)
Discoloration (rare)
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Individuals with:
Active oral herpes
Diabetes
Lupus
Blood clotting disorders
Pre-treatment Considerations
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Motivation: Ensure you're doing it for yourself.
Expectations: Have realistic goals; augmentation enhances but doesn't drastically change features.
Health status: Be in good health and a non-smoker.
Medical history: Disclose any history of cold sores, allergies, or medications to your doctor.
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You must be at least 21 years old to receive FDA-approved lip fillers.
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Because facial structures vary, achieving an exact look from reference photos may not be possible. We will aim for the best enhancement suited to your features.
Post-treatment Care and Recovery
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Apply ice to reduce inflammation.
Avoid lip products for at least 24 hours.
Don't touch or apply pressure to the lips.
Practice gentle oral hygiene.
Stay hydrated.
Avoid strenuous activities for 24 hours.
Follow all post-treatment instructions.
Finding a Qualified Practitioner
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Research credentials: Verify experience and board certification.
Review portfolios: Ask for before-and-after photos.
Seek opinions: Don't hesitate to get a second opinion if unsure.