HOW LONG DOES LIP FILLER LAST?
Lip fillers are one of the most popular cosmetic treatments today, offering a way to enhance your natural lips, restore lost volume, or achieve a more balanced facial appearance.
A question we hear often is: how long do lip fillers last? It’s an important thing to know before treatment, so you have a clear idea of what to expect.
In this blog, we’ll cover how long lip fillers typically last, the key factors that affect their longevity, and simple tips to help you enjoy your results for longer. Keep reading to learn more!
Table of Contents
- How Long Does Lip Filler Last?
- What Are Lip Fillers?
- Why Have Lip Fillers?
- Who Are Lip Fillers Suitable For?
- Who Are Lip Fillers Not Suitable For?
- How Long Does Lip Filler Last?
- What Influences How Long Lip Filler Lasts
- How to Make Lip Fillers Last Longer
- Pros and Cons of Lip Fillers
- Average Cost of Lip Fillers
- Why Choose Hannah McCoy for Lip Fillers?
- Achieve Your Dream Lips at Hannah McCoy Clinic
- Lip Filler Longevity FAQs
What Are Lip Fillers?
Lip fillers are injectable treatments that are used to add volume and shape to your lips. Most commonly, lip fillers are made from hyaluronic acid (HA), which is a naturally occurring substance in the body. HA attracts water, which helps to keep your lips looking and feeling plump and hydrated.
This non-surgical cosmetic procedure is not permanent and can be reversed, which makes it a popular choice. Over time, the body gradually breaks down hyaluronic acid, making lip fillers a temporary beauty treatment.
Why Have Lip Fillers?
Making the choice to have lip fillers is personal and can be used to achieve a range of aesthetic goals. Lip fillers can help you to:
- Increase lip volume and shape to make them look fuller
- Balance uneven lips to improve facial symmetry
- Improve self-confidence
- Achieve more hydrated lips
Who Are Lip Fillers Suitable For?
Lip fillers can be a great option for many people, but it’s important to make sure they’re right for you. At trusted clinics like Hannah McCoy Clinic, lip fillers are generally suitable for most healthy adults over the age of 18.
Ideal candidates for lip fillers typically:
- Want to improve their lip volume, definition, or shape
- Prefer a subtle, natural-looking improvement rather than an overfilled appearance
- Are in good overall health
- Do not have active skin infections, cold sores, or certain medical conditions that may interfere with treatment
Who Are Lip Fillers Not Suitable For?
Unfortunately, lip fillers are not for everyone. People who are not suitable for lip filler include:
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
- Anyone with an active infection or skin condition near the lips (e.g. cold sores)
- People with severe allergies or sensitivity to filler ingredients (like hyaluronic acid or lidocaine)
- Individuals with autoimmune disorders
- Those with bleeding disorders
- People with poorly controlled diabetes
- Anyone with underlying health issues or taking medications/supplements that may increase risks
How Long Does Lip Filler Last?
Typically, first-time dermal lip fillers will last 4-6 months and subsequent treatments 6-12 months. However, the longevity of lip filler varies from person to person for various reasons.
What Influences How Long Lip Filler Lasts
Several factors affect how long lip filler results will last. Understanding these can help you plan your treatments and maintain fuller, natural-looking lips for longer.
Influencing factors that impact how long you’ll see your lip filler results for include:
1) Filler Type and Quality
The type and quality of filler play a key role in how long results last. Premium hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers usually last longer and provide smoother and slightly softer results compared to standard lip fillers.
It’s also important to note that different brands and formulations have varying longevity. For example, Juvéderm Vollure may last longer than Restylane Silk.
2) Metabolism and Lifestyle
Metabolism and lifestyle habits also affect how long fillers last. A faster metabolism can cause fillers to break down more quickly. Likewise, smoking, excessive sun exposure, stress and poor hydration can shorten results. This said, avoiding these can help increase the longevity of your dermal lip fillers.
3) Placement and Technique
The skill and technique of your injector are equally important for how long your results last. When filler is placed at the correct depth, it integrates more smoothly with the natural tissue, which helps it last longer and break down more slowly.
Strategic placement also prevents unevenness and migration. This ensures the filler stays exactly where it is intended. Advanced techniques allow your practitioner to shape, define, or add volume in a way that suits your facial features, therefore allowing them to create results that look balanced and natural rather than overdone.
4) Aftercare
Following post-treatment guidance is essential to protect your lips and their results.
While your lips heal, you should avoid excessive heat or pressure and refrain from excessive talking, laughing, or smiling, as this may cause the filler to dissipate sooner. For more detailed aftercare tips, visit our guide on lip filler aftercare.
How to Make Lip Fillers Last Longer
Although the body will naturally break down HA fillers over time, you can take steps to maintain your lip filler results. For longer-lasting results, make sure you:
- Follow the correct lip filler preparation advice
- Drink plenty of water, as it helps to keep HA fillers plump
- Avoid excessive UV exposure
- Follow aftercare instructions and avoid massage, rubbing, or intense exercise immediately after treatment
- Schedule touch-ups before the filler fully dissolves
Pros and Cons of Lip Fillers
Before having any cosmetic procedure, it’s important to know whether it’s the right decision for you. Here are some pros and cons to consider:
Pros
- Quick and minimally invasive procedure
- Customisable results
- Reversible if needed
- Natural-looking results
Cons
- Temporary and requires maintenance
- Possible swelling or bruising
- Possibility of natural migration over the long term
Average Cost of Lip Fillers
The cost of lip fillers varies depending on the clinic, filler type, and the amount used. At Hannah McCoy Clinic, you can choose between our standard and premium lip filler options starting from £175.
You can find more information on our costs below.
Filler Type | Volume | Price |
---|---|---|
Standard Lip Filler | 0.5 ml | £175 |
1.00 ml | £200 | |
Premium Lip Filler | 0.5 ml | £210 |
0.7 ml | £230 | |
1.0 ml | £250 |
Why Choose Hannah McCoy Clinic for Lip Fillers?
At Hannah McCoy Clinic, we’re passionate about making you have lips you’re proud of. Combining years of experience and knowledge, we prioritise safety and quality results, whether that be to improve your lip shape, add fullness or give them the extra hydration they deserve.
When choosing Hannah McCoy Clinic, our experienced practitioners:
- Assess your facial features and personal goals
- Use high-quality, regulated hyaluronic acid fillers
- Offer a safe and comfortable environment
- Provide expert aftercare guidance to ensure your lips heal safely and stay plump for longer
- Have a medical background and years of experience
Here’s what some of our happy clients have to say:
“First time having lip filler done, Hannah was very professional, didn’t rush me and explained everything. I have a massive phobia of needles and the girls were really good with me. I explained about my medical background and Hannah recommended what she thought was best for me.” – Kellie
“The only clinic I trust with my lips! I’m always so pleased with the results, I’ve been coming here for years. This was my first time meeting Jess at the Baker St clinic and she was lovely – friendly and professional. I will definitely come again, thank you.” – Edith
Achieve Your Dream Lips at Hannah McCoy Clinic
Knowing how long lip filler lasts and what affects its longevity can help you plan your treatments and maintain beautiful results. With expert care, skilled technique and proper aftercare, your lips can stay fuller, hydrated, and naturally enhanced for months, with touch-ups scheduled as needed.
If you’re considering lip fillers, book a consultation at Hannah McCoy Clinic, with locations in Liverpool, Leeds, London, and the Isle of Man. Our experts will create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your lifestyle and lip goals.
Follow @HannahMcCoyClinic on Instagram and TikTok for the latest treatments, before-and-after transformations, and lip filler tips from our experts.
Lip Filler Longevity FAQs
1. How long does filler in the lips last if it’s my first time?
First-time fillers usually last 4 to 6 months, as your body metabolises the product faster initially. Each body is different; therefore, some people may experience longer-lasting results than others.
2. Can I dissolve lip filler if I don’t like it?
Yes, HA lip fillers can be dissolved safely using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. However, it’s advised to wait 1 month before dissolving to give your lips enough time to heal.
3. Is lip filler painful?
Lip filler treatments are generally not considered painful. Most clinics use a local anaesthetic (numbing cream or injections) to keep you comfortable during the procedure.
After treatment, it’s normal to have mild swelling, tenderness, or slight bruising while your lips heal. These side effects usually settle within a few days.
Severe or persistent pain is not normal. If you experience this after your treatment, contact your injector immediately for advice.
4. How soon can I wear makeup after lip filler?
It’s best to avoid applying makeup to your lips for at least 24 hours after lip filler treatment. This helps reduce the risk of infection and irritation while your lips heal.
After the first day, you can usually return to your normal makeup routine, but just be gentle and avoid pressing too hard on the lips. If you notice any unusual swelling, redness, or discomfort, check in with your injector before applying products.