Procedure
Lip Enhancement in Cyprus
Hyaluronic acid filler placed in or around the lips to alter volume, shape or definition, or to address asymmetry between the upper and lower lip. The effect is temporary and the filler is gradually absorbed.
Procedure facts
- Duration
- A few minutes to 1 hour
- Anaesthesia
- Topical anaesthetic cream, applied 15 to 30 minutes beforehand
- Hospital stay
- Outpatient procedure
- Downtime
- Little or none
- Final result
- Visible the same day, with swelling largely settled within a week
Overview
Lip enhancement uses hyaluronic acid filler placed in the lips or around the mouth to change volume, shape or definition. With age the lips thin and the groove between the upper lip and the nose flattens and lengthens; filler can address that, or a difference in proportion between the upper and lower lip.
Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body and supports the formation and maintenance of collagen. The material used in fillers is produced in the laboratory.
What the treatment involves
Local anaesthetic cream is applied to numb the lips and reduce discomfort during and after treatment. After 15 to 30 minutes, when the lips are numb, fine disposable needles are used to place small amounts of filler in the lips or around them.
The injection itself takes from a few minutes up to an hour. The result is assessed and further filler added if it is needed. An ice pack is offered afterwards to reduce swelling.
Most patients return to their usual activities, including work, immediately. The change is visible the same day.
Afterwards
Swelling is expected for the first day or two and settles over the following few days. Avoid straws, smoking and alcohol for 24 hours, keep pressure off the lips while the filler settles, and leave strenuous exercise until the following day.
The result is temporary. As the filler is absorbed, the lips return to their previous appearance; treatment is repeated if the result is to be maintained.
Risks and considerations
Lip enhancement with hyaluronic-acid filler is non-surgical, and the lips swell and bruise more than most areas because the tissue is delicate; this is expected and settles over several days. Tenderness and small lumps that can be smoothed are common early on. The important risk, though rare, is filler entering or pressing on a blood vessel and blocking its supply, which can damage the skin; it is minimised by careful technique and treated early if suspected, and hyaluronic-acid filler can be dissolved with an enzyme. Patients prone to cold sores can find treatment triggers an outbreak. The result is temporary, and a natural, balanced shape rather than volume for its own sake is the aim discussed beforehand.
Questions patients ask
How long does lip filler last?
Up to a year, though most patients repeat the treatment at six to twelve months. The filler is gradually absorbed and the lips return to their previous appearance as it dissolves.
Does lip filler hurt?
The lips are a sensitive area with a dense nerve supply, so some discomfort is possible. A topical numbing cream is applied beforehand and many fillers contain lidocaine. Fine needles are used. Most patients find it tolerable and short-lived, and any mild pain at the injection sites usually settles within 12 to 24 hours.
How long does swelling last after lip filler?
A few days to a week. Swelling is most noticeable on the first day and reduces over the following 24 to 48 hours, with clear improvement by the third or fourth day. Staying hydrated, avoiding salty food and using cold compresses help.
Can I have lip filler while pregnant?
No. Safety during pregnancy has not been adequately studied, so cosmetic injectable treatment is not offered during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Can I eat after lip filler?
Yes, once the numbness from the anaesthetic cream has worn off, so that you do not disturb the filler or bite your lip. Avoid straws, smoking, alcohol and wiping the face and lips for at least 24 hours.
Can I exercise after lip filler?
Avoid intense physical activity on the day of the procedure and wait at least 24 hours before strenuous exercise. Keep pressure off the lips for the first day while the filler settles.
How often can lip filler be repeated?
Once the effect has worn off, which is typically six months to a year depending on the product used. Treating more frequently than that is not advisable, and the interval is agreed individually.
Is there a permanent option for lip enhancement?
Hyaluronic acid fillers are not permanent. For a longer-lasting result, lip enhancement with fat transfer is chosen.
Will my lips return to how they were after filler?
Yes. The lips return to their original appearance as the filler is absorbed, usually at around 12 months. The result is maintained with repeat treatments.
Where it is performed
- Surgery in Cyprus
- The Surgery Center 3i, Strovolos
- Surgery in Athens
- Iatriko Athinon, Marousi Mediterraneo Hospital, Glyfada
Where yours takes place is agreed at the consultation.
How we quote
A quotation follows consultation, because what it costs depends on what the operation actually involves for you — the technique, the time in theatre, and whether anything is being addressed at the same time. We do not publish price lists and we do not quote before examining you.
Arranging a consultation
Book a slot in the clinic diary directly, or send the details of what you are considering and we will reply with the times we have.