What exactly is lip filler migration?

Question

What exactly is lip filler migration? I know some say it’s a mustache or duck lip appearance but does this mean the filler left the lip area and went above it somehow as in the filler leaked out the lip and went into the skin above it? Or does it mean the filler stayed in the lip bit because it was too much or injected properly it puffed up the area above the lip?

Mark Berkowitz, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for reaching out.

Lip filler migration occurs when dermal filler (usually hyaluronic acid-based) moves beyond the intended treatment area, often resulting in a puffy or uneven appearance around the lips. Here are the main reasons why filler migration can happen:

1. Overfilling
Injecting too much filler can exceed the tissue’s capacity, causing the product to spread beyond the lip border.
2. Poor Injection Technique
Incorrect depth, angle, or placement of the needle or cannula can lead to uneven distribution or migration of the filler.
3. Wrong Type of Filler
Softer or lower-viscosity fillers may migrate more easily than those designed for structure and projection, especially if not matched appropriately to the area. Filler will always follow the past of least resistance. A filler with an appropriate g-prime (amount of hyaluronic acid filler) or appropriate amount of filler must be used to not overwhelm the lip structure. 
4. Frequent Touch-Ups
Repeated injections before the previous filler has fully settled or metabolized can lead to buildup and movement over time.
5. Muscle Movement
The lips are highly mobile due to frequent talking, eating, and expression, which can encourage migration, especially shortly after the procedure.
6. Pressure or Trauma Post-Procedure
Rubbing, massaging, or applying makeup too soon after treatment can cause filler to shift.
7. Inexperienced Injector
Practitioners without sufficient training or experience may use improper technique or judgment, increasing the risk of complications like migration.

Nick Slenkovich, MD · Answer

Hello, I’m Lauren, the aesthetic injector at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center. Lip filler migration refers to the movement of the filler from the lip area to adjacent areas, typically above the lip. This can create an unnatural appearance. This can be caused by too much filler, improper technique, etc.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Lip filler migration refers to the movement of dermal filler from the original injection site to other areas, which can result in an altered appearance. In the context of lip fillers, migration typically means that the filler has moved beyond the intended lip area, possibly giving rise to a "mustache" or "duck lip" appearance. This can occur when the filler shifts to the skin above the lip, creating an unnatural volume or puffiness.

The movement can happen for several reasons, including overfilling, incorrect injection technique, or the natural movement of filler material over time. While some may think of migration as the filler "leaking," it's more accurate to say that the filler has redistributed to adjacent areas. It's important to consult with a qualified and experienced practitioner to ensure proper placement and to minimize the risk of migration.

Glenn Murray, MBBS · Answer

Hello,

Lip filler migration refers to the unintended movement of injected filler material from its original placement, leading to changes in lip appearance.
Several factors can contribute to lip filler migration:
- Overfilling: Injecting an excessive amount of filler can increase pressure on surrounding tissues, promoting migration. 
- Injection Technique: Improper injection techniques, such as injecting too superficially or too close to the lip border, can lead to migration.
- Product Choice: Using fillers with low viscosity may increase the risk of migration, as they can spread more easily.

Tulsi Kotecha, MD · Answer

“Lip filler migration” refers to filler moving beyond the intended injection area, Let’s break it down:In some cases, the filler literally moves (or seeps) upwards into the tissue above the lip line, causing a fuller or slightly swollen appearance just above the vermilion border. This can happen if too much filler is injected, or if the filler is placed in a plane where it can easily shift over time.Alternatively, the filler may remain in the lip but is either injected too high or used in excessive volume. The result is that it pushes or bulges the tissue near the border, creating the illusion of migration even if the product hasn’t truly traveled outside the lip.  A skilled injector will minimize these risks by using appropriate volumes and careful technique. If you suspect migration, a consultation with a qualified provider can help determine whether you need minor adjustments or dissolving for a more natural result.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Filler migration simply means that the filler has expanded or moved to an area that wasn't intended during injection.  With lip fillers this often presents as a duck lip but it can be seen in other ways as well.  To avoid this it's important to have your treatment with an expert injector and to follow post injection recommendations for optimal healing.

What exactly is lip filler migration?

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