Full, plump lips have become a coveted facial feature in recent years. As a result, lip fillers have surged in popularity as a cosmetic treatment to achieve a more desired lip shape and size. Cardiff offers several options when it comes to lip fillers, each with their own benefits and considerations. Here is an overview of the different types of lip fillers available in Cardiff and what to know about them.
Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are currently the most popular choice for lip fillers in Cardiff and elsewhere. HA naturally occurs in the body and helps retain moisture and structure in the skin. Some common name brands of HA fillers include Juvederm, Restylane, and Teosyal.
HA fillers provide a temporary increase in lip fullness by injection into the lips and areas around the mouth. Results are visible immediately after treatment and generally last 6-12 months before a touch up is needed. HA fillers tend to provide a smooth, natural look and feel to the lips. They also have a lower risk of allergic reaction compared to other fillers.
The main downsides of HA fillers are that the results are not permanent and multiple treatments are required over time to maintain the effect. There are also some risks such as bruising, swelling, lumpiness, and in rare cases blockage of a blood vessel. However, HA fillers can be easily dissolved if needed.
Collagen Stimulators
Collagen stimulator injections are a longer-lasting alternative to hyaluronic acid fillers. These types of fillers work by triggering the body’s natural collagen production in the lips, leading to increased fullness over time. Common brand names include Sculptra and Teosyal Kiss.
Instead of an immediate volumizing effect, results from collagen stimulators develop gradually over several weeks as collagen builds up. Effects typically last around 2 years, much longer than HA fillers. This makes collagen stimulators a good option for people looking for a more permanent lip enhancement.
The main downsides are that the results take time to become noticeable and multiple treatments are usually still required to maintain the effect long-term. Collagen stimulators also tend to be more expensive than HA fillers.
Fat Transfer
Fat transfer, also known as fat grafting, uses your body’s own fat cells taken from another part of the body to plump up the lips. Common areas fat is harvested from include the thighs, stomach, or buttocks. After processing, the fat cells are carefully injected into the lips in tiny amounts.
Fat transfer delivers very natural looking and feeling results that last longer than fillers, typically 1-2 years or more. It is considered a more permanent lip augmentation option since it uses your own body tissue. Fat transfer also allows precise shaping and contouring of the lips.
However, results from fat transfer rely heavily on the surgeon’s skill and experience. Low quality injections can lead to lumpiness or asymmetry. It also requires a more complex procedure with anesthesia compared to dermal fillers performed in an office visit. Bruising, swelling and tenderness can last several weeks after fat transfer.
Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA)
PLLA (Sculptra) is another type of lip volumizer that gradually stimulates collagen production for subtle, natural looking results over time. It uses poly-L-lactic acid microparticles that are absorbed by the body to thicken the skin’s foundation and increase lip fullness.
Like collagen stimulators, PLLA requires multiple treatments spaced weeks apart followed by a period of several months for full results to become visible as collagen in generated. Effects typically last around 2 years. The gradual volumizing effect of PLLA makes it a good option for people wanting a very subtle enhancement.
The main disadvantages are the prolonged period to see improvements and the relatively high cost due to the multiple sessions required. Mild side effects like swelling, bruising, bumps or redness are also common for a few days after each treatment.
Choosing the Right Lip Filler
When considering lip fillers in Cardiff, consult with an experienced practitioner to review your options and devise an appropriate treatment plan. Factors like your desired results, budget, and tolerance for multiple treatments can all help determine which type of lip filler is the best choice for you. HA fillers offer the quickest, minimally invasive option, while fat transfer or collagen stimulators provide more long-lasting enhancement. Discuss the pros and cons fully with your provider to decide which lip filler will give you the beautiful, supple lips you want.
Risks and Side Effects
While often safe and effective when performed by a qualified specialist, all types of lip fillers do carry some risks and potential side effects to be aware of. These may include:
Swelling, bruising, redness around the lips for 1-2 weeks
Uneven or unnatural look if improperly placed
Lumps, bumps or nodules in the lips
Allergic reaction in rare cases
Numbness or coldness from nerve damage
Blocked blood vessel causing tissue death (very rare)
Proper aftercare and avoiding strenuous activity right after treatment can help reduce risks of side effects. Seek medical attention if you have severe swelling, pain, redness or other concerns after lip injections.
Recovery and Aftercare
Plan for some downtime of around 3-7 days after your lip filler treatment in Cardiff. Swelling and tenderness are common and ice packs can help reduce them. Avoid makeup, sun exposure, alcohol, strenuous activity, and certain medications like aspirin or ibuprofen which may worsen bruising and swelling.
Use a gentle moisturizer and lip balm as needed to keep the skin hydrated. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. Some firmness and lumps are normal initially as the filler settles, but notify your provider if you have any severe irregularities.
Within 7-14 days, most swelling and bruising should resolve. Final results may take 2-4 weeks to fully develop. Avoid direct sunlight and tanning for 2-3 weeks after lip injections to minimize color changes. Schedule a follow up visit if needed to check your results and get touch ups if desired.
Costs and Maintenance
Lip filler costs can range considerably based on the type used and number of syringes needed. Average costs are:
Hyaluronic acid fillers: £200 – £600 per syringe
Collagen stimulators: £400 – £800 per session
Fat transfer: £1,500 – £4,000
Multiple syringes or sessions are usually required for initial treatment and maintenance visits. Lip fillers are not one-time treatments, and require top ups every 6-24 months to maintain plumpness as the product breaks down. Factor in these ongoing costs when considering lip fillers.
Finding a Provider in Cardiff
It’s important to have your lip filler procedure performed by an experienced, reputable provider. In Cardiff, there are some top clinics and medspas to consider, including:
Cardiff Cosmetic Clinic
Rouge Cosmetics
River Aesthetics
Revive Cosmetic Clinic
Ranelagh Clinic
Raul Jerome Aesthetics
Look for a practitioner specifically qualified and skilled in administering lip fillers. They should take time to consult with you and create a customized treatment plan for your goals and anatomy. Ask to see before and after photos and read reviews.
Get the Lips You Want
If your dream is to have fuller, more defined lips, lip fillers offer an effective aesthetic solution. Get educated on the various types available in Cardiff, and choose an experienced local specialist you trust. With a reputable provider, the latest techniques make it possible to subtly enhance your lips for improved confidence in your appearance and a gorgeous smile.
