With Valentine’s Day approaching, February is often a time when we focus a little more on self-care and feeling confident in our appearance. While chocolates and flowers are traditional, many people also use this time of year to consider treatments that help them look as refreshed as they feel.
As we age, our faces naturally change, and one of the most noticeable areas is the lips. Over time, lips can lose volume, definition and hydration. The lip border may soften, fine lines can appear, and the lips themselves often become thinner. Because lips are such a central facial feature, these changes can be an obvious sign of ageing and may leave people looking more tired than they feel.
In recent years, injectable lip filler has become a popular way to restore lost volume and shape. However, many people remain fearful of the treatment, largely due to highly visible examples of overfilled lips seen on social media and in the public eye. These exaggerated results have created the misconception that all lip filler looks unnatural.
In reality, well-performed lip filler should be subtle and undetectable. When carried out by a highly trained and experienced injector, lip filler can gently restore what time has taken away, rather than dramatically changing the face. The aim is to enhance natural lip shape, improve hydration and definition, and create balance with the rest of the facial features. Often, less product is needed than people expect to achieve a refreshed, youthful look.
Choosing an experienced practitioner is essential. A skilled injector has a detailed understanding of facial anatomy and the ageing process and will take a conservative, tailored approach. A thorough consultation should always be part of the process, allowing individual concerns, expectations and suitability for treatment to be discussed.
It is also important to be aware of common side effects. Temporary swelling and bruising are normal after lip filler treatments. Swelling is typically most noticeable in the first 24 to 48 hours and gradually settles over several days. Bruising may occur at the injection sites and can last from a few days to over a week, depending on the individual.
For this reason, lip filler should not be scheduled just before a major work commitment, social event or special occasion — even Valentine’s Day itself. Planning ahead allows time for swelling and bruising to resolve so the final result can be appreciated fully.
When performed by an expert injector, lip filler can be a safe and effective way to achieve natural-looking rejuvenation. The key lies in realistic expectations, expert technique and a focus on subtle enhancement rather than excess. Natural results are not only achievable — they should always be the goal. At Potozkin + Ellis Dermatology & Aesthetics in downtown Danville filler injections are performed by skilled, highly trained board-certified Dermatologists.
