SUSAN BINDER MD
Binder Dermatology
Cosmetic Dermatologist NYC
Lip fillers have become one of the most popular aesthetic treatments today, but there's still a lot of confusion about what they can and can't do. Whether you're looking for more volume, better hydration, or a subtle restoration, the right filler and technique can help you achieve your ideal look. As a practitioner dedicated to natural results, I want to break down the process, the options available, and what to expect when considering lip augmentation.
At Binder Dermatology, we do all we can to give our patients the results they are looking for. Each patients' treatment plan is customized to fit their skin care needs and goals. If you are looking for effective lip filler treatment near you in New York City, we invite you to contact us to set up an appointment today.
What Are Lip Fillers?
Lip fillers are injectable gel-like substances, typically made of hyaluronic acid (HA), which are used to enhance and reshape the lips. Depending on the type of filler and technique used, they can:
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Add volume and shape to the lips
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Improve hydration for a smoother, plumper appearance
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Restore lost definition and support, especially in aging lips
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Balance asymmetries and improve overall facial harmony
The key is customization-lip fillers are not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Every patient has unique lip anatomy, and the approach should be tailored accordingly.
Understanding Different Lip Filler Options
The type of filler used plays a big role in the final results. Some fillers are more robust for adding volume, while others are thinner and designed to integrate seamlessly into the tissue for a more hydrated look.
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For volume: Restylane Kysse is a good option because it provides a soft, plump effect while maintaining flexibility and natural movement.
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For hydration: Restylane Refyne is a thinner filler that smooths out fine lines and enhances hydration without adding too much volume for a more natural restorative look.
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For definition and structure: RHA 2 and 3 can be used to subtly reshape the lips or enhance lip borders.
How Do Lip Fillers Work?
As mentioned above, lip fillers are made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that retains moisture. When injected into the lips, it provides a temporary enhancement that lasts between six months to a year, depending on the individual's metabolism and the amount of filler used.
Fillers work by adding volume beneath the skin, which can either create fullness or smooth out fine lines. Some formulas have a higher G Prime (firmness), which means they provide a stronger lift, while others blend more naturally into the tissue for a softer effect.
The Lip Filler Process: What to Expect
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Consultation and Goal Setting - Before we perform any injections, we discuss your goals. Do you want a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic transformation? Are you more concerned about hydration or volume? Understanding what you want ensures we select the right approach.
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Numbing for Comfort - Lip fillers can be uncomfortable because they are an injection, but we use topical numbing cream and a vibrating device to help minimize discomfort. Some fillers also contain lidocaine, making the process even easier.
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The Injection Process - There are different techniques for lip fillers depending on the desired outcome:
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Cannula technique: Uses a blunt-tipped needle to minimize bruising and provide even filler distribution-great for subtle restoration.
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Tenting technique: A needle-based approach that creates vertical support in the lips, enhancing shape and definition.
The number of injections varies, again depending on the goals of the individual, but most procedures take about 15-20 minutes.
Are Lip Fillers Safe? Risks and Considerations
While generally safe when performed by an experienced board-certified dermatologist, lip fillers do come with some potential risks:
Migration
If too much filler is used too quickly, it can spread beyond the lips, leading to an unnatural appearance.
Tyndall Effect
If filler is placed too superficially, it can cause a bluish tint under the skin.
Bruising and Swelling
This is common post-treatment and usually subsides within a few days.
Vascular Occlusion
A rare but serious complication where filler blocks a blood vessel, emphasizing the importance of working with a skilled provider.
If any issues arise, or the results are not what you envisioned, hyaluronic acid fillers can be dissolved with an enzyme called hyaluronidase. You can discuss your options at your follow-up appointment a week or two after the procedure.
How Long Do Lip Fillers Last?
Results typically last six to nine months, but factors such as metabolism and movement, since the lips are a high-mobility area, can affect longevity. Some patients opt for a small touch-up every six months, while others prefer to wait a year before re-treatment.
Lip Fillers vs. Botox: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse lip fillers with Botox, but they are different injectables and serve different purposes:
Lip fillers
Hyaluronic acid-based and used to add volume, hydration, and structure to the lips.
Botox
Neuromodulator which relaxes muscles and can be used to relax the muscles that create fine lines around the lips, or for a lip flip—a technique that enhances the upper lip by reducing muscle contraction, creating a slightly lifted appearance.
Often to achieve the goals of a patient we will suggest a combination of both procedures, as this provides the most natural and balanced results.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Lip Fillers?
Most people can safely get lip fillers, but some factors should be considered:
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Cold sores: If you have a history of cold sores, we recommend taking antiviral medication before and after treatment to prevent an outbreak.
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Dental Work: When it comes to any dermatological procedure at our office, we tend to air on the side of caution and so ask our patients to avoid booking an appointment for lip filler within two weeks of dental procedures to minimize the risk of infection.
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Realistic Expectations: The best results come from enhancing your natural features, gradually building on what you already have, and not overfilling the lips.
What Are Lip Implants?
Unlike fillers, lip implants are permanent silicone-based enhancements. We do not perform lip implants, as they can limit natural lip movement, and are harder to remove if patients are not pleased with the results since they are permanent. Hyaluronic acid fillers offer flexibility, and if a patient dislikes the result, they can be dissolved—a level of control that permanent implants don’t provide.
Lip Filler Aftercare
After you have lip filler injected it’s important to be aware of things you can do post-procedure to protect your lips and promote quick healing.
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Expect swelling: This usually peaks within 24-48 hours and subsides within a week. It’s important to be aware that the results you see right after the procedure will typically be larger or puffier than the final result so allowing for time for swelling to reduce is necessary.
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Avoid blood thinners: Don’t take aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil supplements before or after treatment to reduce bruising.
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No excessive heat: Skip saunas and hot yoga for a couple of days post-treatment.
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Follow-up appointments: I always recommend a follow-up visit to ensure satisfaction and make any necessary refinements.
Real Patient Experiences
One of my patients, a young woman with naturally thin lips, gradually built up her volume over a series of sessions. The transformation gave her more confidence, especially for her wedding.
Another older patient came in concerned about her lips appearing sunken due to age. With a gentle, hydrating filler approach, we restored her lips without making them look overdone, and she was very pleased with the natural results.
Book With Binder Dermatology For A Tailored Approach to Lip Fillers
Lip fillers are an excellent way to enhance your lips while maintaining a natural look. Whether you’re seeking hydration, volume, or restoration, the key is working with an experienced injector who understands facial anatomy and balance. If you’re considering lip or derma fillers, schedule a consultation with Binder Dermatology to discuss your goals—Dr. Binder is here to help you achieve beautiful, natural-looking results!
