Juvederm - 0.5ml or 1ml needed for my lips? (Photos)

Question

I went to a consultation today to get my lips done. I had been told before that a half ml was all I needed to achieve my results. I felt super rushed with the doctor and she was pretty adamant that I get a full 1 ml. I want a super subtle change. Basically when I'm in front of the mirror or taking a photo, I always just push out my lips a little. That's all I want to accomplish with filler - them looking that way all the time. Is .05ml enough? I still want to look like me.

Joseph J. Castellano, MD · Answer

Regardless of the exact amount of dermal filler you'd need to achieve your results, the fact that you felt rushed and uncomfortable is reason enough to look for a different injector. You don't want to work with anyone who feels pushy—you're entering into a long-term relationship with this doctor, since injectable fillers are only temporary. Don't be afraid to get a second opinion or even a third. Best of luck to you.

Ramandeep Sidhu, MD · Answer

Most of the time for both upper and lower lips one full syringe is used. Its not a whole lot of product but in our practice we go with what the client's desire and if they want to stage the product we do that too.

Michael A. Zadeh, MD, FACS · Answer

1 syringe of filler is the equivalent of 1/5th of a teaspoon. So, it really isn't that much product and for the lips most people will require at least one syringe. That being said, you can always start off with 0.5 mL and add more desire to reach your goal. Make sure you find an experience injector and communicate your goals clearly with them. Best wishes.

Janet Turkle, MD · Answer

Hi,Thanks for your question. I always recommend starting with less filler if you are a first-time patient. The exception to that is when I am sure it will not give an effective result. If the doctor you saw did not give you enough time, I would suggest you consult with another board-certified plastic surgeon. In addition to Juvederm, Volbella gives a very nice and softer result. Your surgeon can recommend which one if best for you. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear foryouuuuuu,I typically use Juvederm for my lip sculpting because it lasts long. There are two main focuses of lip injections, adding volume and actually sculpting the shape. Both involve injecting the filler in different areas of the lips and patterns. I would recommend finding a plastic surgeon to perform you lip injections for the best result. If you had a positive experience with 0.5 ml, then there is no reason to use 1 ml. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You would get a nice improvement with lip fillers. Most Doctors will start with one syringe of filler to avoid over-filling. These fillers, (Volbella, Restylane, Juvederm) are good to create a full and symmetrical lip. Nova threads can be used to improve lift and shape. Implants or fat are alternatives. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a facial sculpting expert to go over your desired results. Best, Dr. Emer

Michele Zormeier, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. 
There are several products on the market that do an excellent job for adding bulk and augmentation to the lips. Juvederm volbella is the newest FDA approved hyaluronic acid filler for lip lines, and usually 1/2 cc is recommended. For adding lip volume, Juvederm vollure or Juvederm ultra can be used. The amount needed may need to be determined at the time of injection for the results desired. Sometimes it is difficult to know the exact amount prior to injection, but in my practice we only sell 1 cc syringe of filler unless it is volbella which is sold in 1/2 cc syringe. 
Please consult a local board certified facial plastic surgeon for more information and a comprehensive consultation

Kimberly Lee, MD · Answer

It is more  important to focus on the results you are seeking than the actual amount of filler you will need to get those results.  That is why you are coming to a professional.  Also keep in mind that different fillers will give you a slightly different result as they are made of different consistencies, molecule thickness, elasticity, etc, so 0.5cc of one type of filler may require more or less with a different filler.  Please consult with a board certified specialist who can assist you with achieving the results you seek.

Tim Sayed, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

The simple approach is start with 0.5ml and wait a couple of weeks. If you then think you still want some more fullness, you can go back for additional filler. You don't lose anything except some time and a second injection "experience," in terms of more shots.However, I am generally of the opinion that when patients try to "downsell" the amount of filler they get vs. what we recommend, they are usually disappointed that they didn't get as much projection as they wished. Setting expectations is important here; 0.5cc of product is often not enough to give a reasonably visible augmentation to the lips that looks balanced. But again, no harm in staging this to get you "comfortable" with the amount that is right for your goals.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The wonderful thing about injections is that you can go slowly to achieve the look you desire.  You can start with 0.5ml and add more later if you'd like.  Keep in mind that it takes two weeks for you to see your final results after injection.