It is my first time doing lip filler - does migration occur if I inject lip filler again after 4-5 months?

Question

Female

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

If you have lip filler now it is fine to get a top up in four to five months.  Depending on the filler selected and the amount injected your filler should last six to twelve months. Visit with an expert injector and follow your post treatment instructions to minimize your risk for lip filler migration.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Lip filler migration can indeed occur, although it is relatively uncommon when the procedure is performed by an experienced and qualified practitioner. Here are some key points to consider regarding lip filler and the risk of migration:

1. **Choice of Filler**: The type of filler used can impact the likelihood of migration. Hyaluronic acid fillers are commonly used for lips and tend to integrate well with the tissue, but different brands and formulations may have varying properties.

2. **Technique**: The technique and experience of the injector play a crucial role. Proper placement of the filler in the correct anatomical plane is essential to minimize the risk of migration. Ensure that your practitioner is skilled and has a good track record with lip fillers.

3. **Volume and Frequency**: Overfilling the lips or having filler injected too frequently can increase the risk of migration. It's important to follow the guidance of your practitioner regarding the appropriate amount and timing of treatments.

4. **Individual Factors**: Each person's anatomy and tissue characteristics can influence the outcome. Some individuals may be more prone to migration due to factors like lip movement, skin elasticity, and the natural structure of their lips.

5. **Aftercare**: Following proper aftercare instructions can help reduce the risk of complications. This includes avoiding excessive pressure on the lips, refraining from strenuous exercise immediately after the procedure, and not massaging the treated area unless instructed by your practitioner.

Given that you are considering a second injection after 4-5 months, it is important to:

- **Consult with Your Practitioner**: Discuss your previous experience, any concerns you have, and your goals for the second treatment. Your practitioner can assess the current state of your lips and advise on the best approach.
- **Evaluate the Need**: Assess whether the existing filler has been fully metabolized and whether additional filler is necessary at this time. Sometimes, it might be better to wait a bit longer between treatments.
- **Monitor for Signs of Migration**: Be aware of signs of migration, such as lumps, unevenness, or filler moving outside the lip borders. If you notice any of these signs, contact your practitioner promptly.

Ultimately, ensuring that you choose a highly qualified and experienced injector is the most important step in minimizing any risks associated with lip fillers, including migration.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I’ve been injecting lip fillers since HA fillers came on the market in the late 1990s.
In my opinion, fillers never migrate.
The concept is made up as an excuse for those who make mistakes or lack skill and experience.
Fillers simply don’t move in the body on their own.
Working with fillers is an art form.
Some artists are inherently talented and some draw like six-year-olds.Facial aesthetics is much the same way.
Because somebody offers the service does not mean they’re good at it.
It’s your job to find those who are talented at this type of work.
Reading reviews can be helpful, but I would probably recommend you insist on seeing lots of before and after pictures And consider interviewing a few providers before having the procedure.
Most people see this as a quick in and out process that usually doesn’t require a consultation before the treatment.
We all see lots of bad filler work all around us.
All you have to do is look at peoples faces and you’ll start recognizing people who have excessively large upper lips that don’t look natural.
This is simply bad work.
You don’t notice the good work.
Good work looks good and it looks natural.
No one should ever come out looking like they had a procedure.
It’s important to maintain a natural upper lower lip volume ratio.
There are so many aspects to quality work. It’s a bit beyond what can be covered by responding to your post.
Simply getting patients through this treatment without pain and minimizing, the chance of bruising is an art form all its own.
Providers who bring up fillers migrating are probably not the right people to be working with.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

It is my first time doing lip filler - does migration occur if I inject lip filler again after 4-5 months?

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It is my first time doing lip filler - does migration occur if I inject lip filler again after 4-5 months?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Fillers

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