Does lip augmentation hurt?

Lip augmentation is a popular cosmetic procedure involving the injection of hyaluronic acid into the lips. Many people are concerned about pain during this procedure, but in reality, it is rare.

Local anesthesia effectively minimizes any discomfort. As a result, up to 90% of patients do not feel severe pain during the treatment. Although pain sensations are subjective, their average level is rated as very low - typically only 2 out of 5. The belief in significant pain associated with the procedure is therefore greatly exaggerated.

During lip augmentation, patient comfort is a top priority. To make the procedure as comfortable as possible, various methods of local anesthesia are used. Typically, a numbing cream is applied, which starts to work on the lips after 15-20 minutes, minimizing any pain sensations.

If you are more sensitive to pain, you can opt for a stronger solution: dental anesthesia. This method completely eliminates any discomfort, ensuring full comfort during the procedure.

Furthermore, many modern hyaluronic acid fillers already contain lidocaine, which further reduces discomfort during the procedure.

Although anesthesia effectively alleviates discomfort during lip augmentation, many factors influence the sensation of pain during the procedure. These factors include:

• the patient's individual pain threshold,

• the level of stress and fear, which intensify unpleasant sensations,

• the skills of the doctor and the technique of administering the product (linear method, fan technique, or "Russian Lips"),

• the tool used (a microcannula minimizes tissue trauma unlike a needle),

• the phase of the menstrual cycle in women – some specialists advise against the procedure just before or during menstruation.

To minimize discomfort during the procedure, it is worth preparing for it thoroughly. During the initial consultation, you will establish a detailed treatment plan with the specialist. This is the perfect time to choose the appropriate anesthesia that will ensure safety and maximum comfort. Remember that a positive attitude is extremely important because stress can intensify pain sensations. Several days before the procedure, be sure to avoid blood-thinning medications (such as aspirin or ibuprofen) and alcohol. This will significantly reduce the risk of bruising and hematomas. Always remember to inform the doctor about all medications you are taking, including dietary supplements.

Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid may result in certain temporary side effects, which are a natural part of the recovery process. It is normal to experience swelling, which usually lasts for a few days. Bruising at the injection sites may also occur, typically fading within a week. The lips may feel tender and slightly sore. Sometimes, small lumps may be palpable, which can be gently massaged. All of these symptoms are typical and will resolve on their own.

After lip augmentation procedure, proper care of the lips is necessary. To ensure proper healing process, remember the following rules:

• Immediately after the procedure, apply cold compresses to the lips to reduce swelling and bruising, while also speeding up the healing process.
• Ensure proper hydration by drinking plenty of water.
• If you experience pain, you can take paracetamol.
• Avoid taking ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as they can increase bleeding.
• After a few days, with doctor's approval, perform gentle lip massages to aid in proper distribution of the product and support tissue regeneration.
• Don't forget to regularly moisturize your lips.

Lip augmentation, although popular, should not be performed on everyone. Patient safety is always a priority, so the procedure is not recommended in case of:

• pregnancy and breastfeeding,

• active infections around the lips, e.g. herpes,

• autoimmune diseases,

• tendency to develop hypertrophic scars (keloids),

• blood clotting disorders,

• allergies to components of the product, such as hyaluronic acid or lidocaine.

Fortunately, for individuals with these contraindications, there is a safe alternative - lipotransfer. This is a procedure involving the transplant of one's own adipose tissue, which is fully compatible with the body.