It isn't my first time getting my lips done but if it is for you, read this before you make your decision. Kylie Jenner is the ultimate lip filler glow-up and a lot of girls follow her footsteps. For me it was more of an adventure and curiosity to get them done and I'm glad I did it. I've never had thin lips but they're not remarkably plumpy either...it needed a little bit of volume. That was a good enough reason for me to entertain the idea of getting jabbed with a needle.
When I told my friends and co-workers about getting my lips done, some of the top reactions where:
"Are you going to look like a crazy duck lady?"
"Why? They're fine!"
"OMG! Isn't that painful?"
But a lot of women don't know that to achieve the crazy duck look is the persons personal choice. Most doctors try and go for the natural full lip look. As for the pain, there are few things you can do before the procedure. But before we get into that check out the Brilliant Distinctions program below.
Brilliant Distinctions:
I know how expensive and painful the injections can be. I consider lip fillers as a minor plastic surgery without going under anesthesia and no down time. For that reason alone, sign-up or even download Brilliant Distinctions app. This is the best program to reward you with savings on Allergan products - Botox, Juvederm, etc. Every time you get your injections done, you can stack your points until you want to redeem them (1point = $1). Brilliant Distinctions constantly offer discounts on top of your points so always keep an eye out - especially on holidays.
Juvederm Ultra:
Juvederm is a family of injectable hyaluronic acid fillers that provides 9 months to a year of corrections for wrinkles and folds. There are different types of Juvederms that are good for different reasons:
- Juvederm Voluma XC is great for increasing the size of your cheeks since it adds volume beneath the skin.
- Juvederm XC + Vollure XC is great for skin elasticity and fills the wrinkled areas around your mouth, nose and smile lines.
- Juvederm Ultra XC + Volbella XC works as nonsurgical lip enhancement treatment.
Now that you know a little bit about Juvederm product line you should know that it's a minimally invasive procedure and doesn't require a preparation. If it's your first time or you're scared of needles like I am, It's best to use a numbing cream (med-spa provides them). However, Juvederm products contains small amounts of lidocaine.
Risks:
I've personally haven't experiences any side effects except for swelling, tenderness and minimal bruising but it lasted about 24 hours. We're all made different so you might experience other symptoms such as:
- redness
- tenderness
- lumps or bumps
- minor pain
- itching
- bruising
If you do get these side effects, there is nothing to worry about since the effects subside within few days. I advise to avoid activities, drinking alcohol, eating salty food or sun exposure for at least 24 hours post treatment. And ice those babies as much as you can. It will help with swelling.
Ageless Medical Spa:
I can sit here and tell you what you should get but honestly once the doctor takes a look at your facial complexion he/she will tell you which product will suit you the best. At the Ageless Medical I got to work with lovely Erin Owoc, the needle whisperer, who is also the owner of the Ageless Medical facility and national trainer for Botox and Juvederm products. Erin was very reassuring and was quick to understand my desires which is "just make them a little plumper".
I used the numbing cream which is NO JOKE of a numb. It's a full strength dental-grade numbing cream. While it was working it's magic, I got to talk to Erin about Juvederm vs. Restylane filler and how long the product will last with my fast metabolism. Oh yea! My body is a little crazy when it comes with fillers. Last time I got Restyle done, the product lasted exactly 3 months.
For pain: you can also ice the lips with the numbing cream or take an Advil.
I also explained how scared I was of needles due to previous experiences. Erin was so understanding and sweet. Loved her style and vibe. She finally pricked a fine needle under my skin so gently that I didn't even know that we started the procedure. She kept reminding me to breathe so I wouldn't faint. The whole thing was done within 20 minutes. I didn't name her "the needle whisperer" for nothing!
On a real note: as for discomfort level, some areas hurt a little more then the others but that's injectables for you. Even with the numbing cream you will feel the pressure due to something being manipulated under the skin but it's nothing you can't bear.
I can't stress enough about how important it is to choose the right doctor. My previous experiences almost cost me to never get my lips done so it's important you go to someone who knows how skin and muscles work. Erin really helped me overcome my fears and now I'll be bringing my flock of friends to her. If you're ever visiting Florida, check out Ageless Medical facility. You won't regret it, I promise!
