Lip filler: what to ask before you book

Lip filler is a gel-like product put into the lips with a needle or a fine tube. People ask about it for shape or fullness. The lips have many blood vessels and nerves, so choosing who does it matters. This page is general, and a licensed professional must assess you.

We do not say whether lip filler is right for anyone, and we make no claims about results.

What is the decision rule?

Choose the injector first, the look second. Check licence, training and the product before you talk about shape. A natural-looking plan from an unlicensed person is not safer than a plain plan from a licensed one.

Our page on dermal fillers: what to ask covers the basics for any area. This page focuses on lips.

What should I know about the product?

Fillers come in different types, and some can be dissolved by another product if a problem happens. Ask which type is used, whether it can be reversed, and who can do that if needed. Do not accept "it is the same as the others". Ask to see the packaging.

Questions to ask your clinic

Questions to ask your clinic

1. Who will inject, and are they licensed for it?
2. What product will be used, and can I see the packaging?
3. How will the amount and shape be planned, and who decides?
4. Can I start with a small amount?
5. What are the risks for the lips in particular, in general terms?
6. Which signs after treatment mean I must call at once?
7. Is there someone who can dissolve or correct the filler if needed?
8. Who is on call after hours?
9. What is the total cost, including any review visit?
10. What should I avoid before and after?

Ruling: questions 6 and 7 tell you whether the clinic has a safety plan. A clinic without one is not ready for you.

What to expect

• Before: consultation, health questions, a plan, consent. Ask for time to think.
• At the visit: the area is cleaned, numbing may be offered, and the product is placed. Ask how long it takes.
• After: typically swelling, tenderness or bruising for a time. Ask for written aftercare and follow it. Your lips may look different from how they will settle, so the first days are not a guide.

Get urgent medical help for severe pain, skin that turns pale, white, grey or dusky, blisters, vision changes, or breathing problems. Do not wait for the clinic to reply if these happen.

Red flags

• The injector will not name their licence
• Lip filler is offered at a home or pop-up
• No health questions are asked
• The plan is "as much as possible"
• You cannot see the product
• Risks are not explained

Who should I not ask?

A friend with a needle, a beauty salon with no medical licence or an online seller of fillers. Check anyone through how to check a practitioner is qualified.

How long do the effects last?

It depends on the product, the person and the area. Read how long do fillers last.

Common mistakes

• Choosing from a photo of another person's lips
• Going back the next day for more
• Taking an event date as the deadline
• Not keeping a note of the product and batch
• Ignoring early warning signs