How to get natural-looking lip filler

Most people who ask about lip filler say the same thing. They want it to look natural. They'd like their lips to look fuller or more defined without anyone guessing they've had treatment. With the right approach that's very achievable for many people.

Work with your natural shape

Everyone's lips are different. Some people have a strong Cupid's bow. Some have a fuller lower lip. Many are naturally a little uneven. Natural-looking filler respects these features rather than trying to copy someone else's lips.

Your practitioner will look at your lips in relation to the rest of your face. Your nose, chin, teeth and smile all affect what will look balanced.

Think about proportion

In many faces the lower lip is a little fuller than the upper lip. When the top lip becomes larger than the bottom, lips can start to look overfilled. Keeping a balanced ratio is one of the simplest ways to keep things looking natural.

Where the filler sits matters too. Filler that pushes the lips too far forward or spreads above the lip line can create a "duck" profile or a shelf above the lip. Careful placement helps avoid this.

Less is often more

Starting with a small amount is one of the best ways to get a natural result. You can always add more at a later appointment once you've seen how your lips settle. It's much harder to take filler away, although hyaluronic acid filler can be dissolved if needed.

Lucy offers lip filler up to 1ml. Many people find a modest amount gives them the subtle change they were hoping for.

Choose shape over size

Filler isn't only about volume. It can also be used to:

• Define a soft lip border
• Balance an upper and lower lip
• Even out small differences between the two sides
• Support the corners of the mouth
• Add a little hydration so lips look smoother

Be patient with the result

Lips swell after filler, sometimes quite a lot for the first day or two. They can look bigger and lumpier than the final result. Most of this settles within a few days. The true result is usually visible at around two weeks. Judging your lips too early can be misleading.

Pick the right practitioner

Natural results depend on skill and a good eye for proportion. It's also important to choose someone who is fully qualified and insured. They should take a full medical history and explain the risks clearly. These include swelling, bruising and tenderness. Rarely, filler can block a blood vessel, which needs urgent treatment.

Results vary from person to person. If you'd like to talk about what would look natural on you, Lucy offers a free consultation at her clinic in Addlestone.