What Fillers Are Used for Lip Augmentation and What You Need to Know Before the Procedure?

In modern cosmetology, lip augmentation is not only a way to add volume but also a method to improve natural beauty. You can rectify asymmetry, define the contour, enhance the shape of your lips or just moisturize them from the inside out using fillers.

This procedure does not require surgery, and the results are visible almost immediately. However, choosing the appropriate filler is just as important to getting the ideal result as the aesthetic practitioner’s skill. The market offers hundreds of different types of fillers, each with its own unique density, composition, duration, and end result. It’s important to understand the different types and find which one suits you the best.

1. Hyaluronic Acid Fillers (HA)

• The most common and safest fillers
• Biocompatible – hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the body
• Hydrates the lips, attracts moisture and boosts collagen production
• Results up to 12 months

HA filler types :

• Soft/low-density: for light volume and delicate lip hydration (e.g., Belotero Soft, Juvederm Volbella)
• Medium-density: for augmentation that is apparent but natural (e.g., Teosyal Kiss, Restylane Kysse)
• High-density—for better form correction and also contour definition (e.g., Juvederm Ultra 4)

2. Calcium-Based Fillers (CaHA – Calcium Hydroxyapatite)

Example: Radiesse

• Less common for lips due to higher density as HA
• Primarily  used for cheek and chin augmentation, but little amounts may gently improve lip shape
• Promotes strong collagen synthesis, and has long-lasting effects.

Duration: Up to 18 months

Not suitable for thin or sensitive lips

3. Poly-L-lactic Acid Fillers (PLLA)

Example: Sculptra

• A collagen stimulator rather than a traditional filler
• Causes slow tissue regeneration rather than providing immediate volume
• Although it is not applied directly to the lips, it works well to reduce creases and folds around the mouth.

Duration: Up to 2 years

4. Permanent Fillers (Biopolymers)

Not recommended by modern aesthetic medicine

• Synthetic, non-absorbable fillers since they might migrate or can cause some problems.
• Removal of this type of fillers necessitates surgery.

Most nations and respectable clinics prohibit or discourage them due to the high risks.

How to Choose the Right Lip Filler?

Choosing a lip filler is a personal process that takes into account your anatomy, skin type, age, past procedures, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences. It’s not simply about picking a brand. What you should know is as follows:

1. What is your goal?

• Soft to medium HA fillers, such as Juvederm Volbella and Restylane Kysse, are the best option if you want to achieve hydration and modest volume.
• Select denser fillers (such as Teosyal Kiss or Juvederm Ultra 3/4) that retain shape well for plump lips and sharp definition.
• A filler with moderate plasticity is best for lip corner lift or symmetry correction.
• Choose a filler that also promotes collagen for mouth rejuvenation (such as Belotero Balance).

2. Your skin condition and age

• Younger customers typically simply require volume or form improvement since their lips are inherently elastic
• A filler that moisturizes, promotes collagen, and reduces wrinkles is better suited for older skin.

3. Desired duration

• Shorter-term fillers (6–9 months) are best for beginners or people who aren’t confident of their lip shape.
• Select fillers that have a 12- to 18-month impact for effects that stay longer.

4. Filler density

• Denser fillers hold shape better but require skilled technique.
• Softer ones are hardly perceptible to the touch and provide a more natural appearance.
• Golden rule: The softer the filler, the more natural the desired outcome.

5. The most important: practitioner experience

• If administered by an untrained individual, even the greatest filler won’t provide the intended effect. Only a skilled professional will:
• Analyse the structure of your face.
• Choose the best filler.
• Make use of the appropriate injection method.
• Personalised post-treatment care should be given.

Still unsure which filler is right for you? Make an appointment for a consultation at our clinic, and we will assist you in choosing the best option for your lips and goals!