Lip Fillers

Lip fillers are a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that most patients tolerate quite well. We are happy to apply a numbing gel for patients with more sensitive lips to ease their experience. Some patients may experience increased sensitivity in their lips immediately following their procedure, though this side effect is temporary.

Lip filler injections may require maintenance appointments depending on the extent of the procedure and the amount of filler used to create the shape and appearance of the lips. These appointments may range from every six months to an annual basis. Many of Dr. Valina’s patients find that one touchup appointment a year is more than sufficient.

Lip fillers create immediate results! Enjoy walking out of your appointment with your brand-new lips. With proper maintenance, lip filler augmentations may last up to a year or more, though it is recommended to schedule touchup appointments to ensure your results are to your satisfaction.

Many of Dr. Valina’s patients combine lip filler treatments with BOTOX® or other complementary cosmetic procedures for a fully refreshed look. If you are interested in additional cosmetic procedures, please mention them during your consultation so Dr. Valina may create the safest and most effective treatment plan for your aesthetic goals.

Lip filler treatments are generally safe and well-tolerated by a majority of patients. However, the procedure is not without some risk. In rare cases, patients may experience side effects such as the following:

• Swelling
• Mild bruising
• Changes in sensitivity or numbness in the treated area
• Bleeding
• Infection
• Filler migration
• Tissue death

If you experience any of these symptoms as a result of your lip filler procedure, please contact Grace Surgical Arts immediately.

No, lip fillers are not permanent. The results can last anywhere between 8 to 12 months depending on the type of filler used, your metabolism, and lifestyle factors. Keep in mind that touch-up treatments might be needed to maintain the desired look over time.

Yes. Since JUVÉDERM® is a hyaluronic acid-based filler, it can be safely dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

We apply a topical lidocaine numbing cream before your treatment. For patients who are more sensitive, we also offer a nerve block using a lidocaine injection for deeper numbing. Most patients find the treatment very tolerable with these options.

Most of our Miami patients achieve their desired look with one syringe of JUVÉDERM®, especially during a first-time treatment. For those seeking more dramatic volume, a second syringe may be recommended.

Not at all—unless that’s the look you want! Dr. Valina specializes in natural-looking lip enhancement. During your appointment, she will take into account your facial proportions, lip shape, and goals to get you the best results.

Swelling is completely normal and peaks within 24–48 hours after treatment. It can last up to a week but typically subsides significantly within 3–5 days. Immediately after treatment, your lips may look a bit fuller than expected—that’s just the swelling and will settle quickly.

After your treatment, avoid touching or pressing on your lips, and skip lipstick or lip balm for 24 hours. Use a cold compress to help reduce swelling, stay well-hydrated, and avoid intense heat like saunas or sunbathing.

Before Treatment:

• Avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements like aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and vitamin E for 3–5 days
• Skip alcohol for 24–48 hours
• Stay well hydrated

After Treatment:

• Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours
• Don’t touch, press, or massage the treated area unless advised
• Sleep with your head elevated
• Avoid alcohol, hot showers, and saunas for a couple of days