How can I fix this bulge under my lip? (Photos)

Question

so I recently got lip filler and noticed this around my lips only when i smile, i thought it was filler migration but pictures of me before filler with the same bulge under my lip. I’ve grown insecure about this. My injector said it wasn’t filler migration and may just be my lip curling under when i smile? How can i fix this? First 2 pictures are before filler & the last two are after

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Dealing with concerns about changes in your appearance, especially after a cosmetic procedure, can be challenging. Here are some steps you can consider to address the bulge under your lip:

Consult with a Specialist: Since your injector has suggested that the bulge is not due to filler migration, it might be helpful to get a second opinion from a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon who specializes in facial aesthetics. They can assess whether this is a structural issue or related to muscle movement.

Non-Surgical Options: If the bulge is due to muscle movement or natural anatomy, treatments like Botox can sometimes help by relaxing specific muscles that might be causing the lip to curl or bulge in a noticeable way when you smile.

Surgical Options: In some cases, minor surgical procedures can be considered to alter the underlying structure that may be causing the bulge. Again, a consultation with a facial plastic surgeon could provide insights into this option.

Lip Massage: Sometimes, gentle massage techniques can help in redistributing filler, though this is usually more effective shortly after the procedure. Your provider can show you how to do this safely if they think it might help.

Time and Monitoring: Sometimes, simply giving it time to settle can lead to improvement. Continue to monitor the area and take note of any changes over time.

Psychological Support: If this issue is causing significant distress, speaking with a counselor or psychologist who specializes in body image issues can be beneficial.

Remember, it's important to approach this issue with patience and to consider professional advice tailored to your specific situation.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello! My name is Jessica, I am a physician assistant, and one of the providers at Aesthetic Skin in Winnetka and Chicago. This is a great question. It’s completely understandable to become hyper-aware of certain facial features after getting lip filler, especially when changes draw your attention to areas you hadn’t closely noticed before. The bulge under your lip that appears only when you smile—and that you’ve also seen in older photos—likely isn’t filler migration, especially since your injector confirmed that. Filler migration tends to show up as a static puffiness or swelling above or below the lip line, even at rest, whereas what you’re describing sounds more dynamic, appearing only during certain expressions. If the look is bothering you, slight adjustments to filler placement or technique in future sessions might also improve how your lips move and sit when you smile. I hope this helps and best of luck!

How can I fix this bulge under my lip? (Photos)

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How can I fix this bulge under my lip? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.