FILLER FAQs

Tempted by lip fillers but want the facts first? Dr Frances Prenna Jones answers Google’s most-searched questions.

WHAT ARE THEY?

The filler itself is made up of a hyaluronic acid molecule, which is a naturally occurring compound in the body that attracts water and can hold up to 1,000 times its own weight. Injected, this results in a plumper, fuller lip effect.

CAN ANYONE GET THEM?

For fillers, Botox and both invasive and non-invasive procedures, patients need to be aged 18. Plus, no clinical studies have ever proven that it’s OK to undergo treatment while pregnant, when fluctuating hormones make it more difficult to predict results.

HOW LONG DO THEY LAST?

It depends on the product, the patient and a number of other factors. As a ballpark figure, the first treatment should last four to six months, and after that can be anything from nine months-plus.

WHAT’S THE HEALING TIME?

There is no healing as such, although swelling might occur in a few cases for 24 to 48 hours. Most patients see the end result on the same day with very little swelling, as long as they’ve been to a reputable practitioner. If swelling should occur, we use ice cubes wrapped in gauze to cool the area to prevent bruising and help reduce swelling.

WHAT DO THEY COST?

It varies depending on the practitioner and product, but you can expect to pay anything from £250 to beyond £1,500. You should think of it a little like a hairdresser — you are paying for the expertise of the practitioner rather than the actual product.

WHAT IF YOU’RE NOT HAPPY WITH THE RESULTS?

Go back as soon as possible to reverse the result. We use an eraser enzyme that instantly dissolves the filler, returning your lips to their natural shape and form.