What Is Russian Lip Filler? The Technique, Who It Suits and Its Limits
Russian lip filler (Russian lips) is the name of an injection technique used in lip filler. The aim of this technique is to increase the vertical height of the lips and create a more defined, lifted look in the centre of the lips, rather than adding forward volume. This article explains what Russian lip filler is, who it may be suitable for and what its limits are.
How Does It Differ From Classic Lip Filler?
In classic lip filler, the filler is mostly placed in the body of the lip and along the lip border to add volume and definition. In the Russian technique, the filler is injected in small amounts in a vertical direction from points close to the vermilion border. As a result, the lip looks taller and more lifted in the centre. The filler used is the same; the difference lies in how it is placed.
Who May It Be Suitable For?
It may be considered for adults in good general health whose lips have little height and who want a more defined look in the centre of the lips. However, not every lip structure is suitable for this technique. The amount of lip tissue, the proportion of the lips to the face and the person's expectations are assessed together at the consultation; in some people the doctor may recommend the classic technique or a different approach.
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, if there is an active cold sore or infection on the lip, if there is a history of allergy to the filler, or if there is a bleeding disorder, the procedure is postponed or not performed.
How Is It Done?
- The doctor assesses the lips and face; expectations and the limits of the technique are discussed.
- An anaesthetic cream or local anaesthesia is applied to the lips.
- A filler containing hyaluronic acid is injected in small amounts at the planned points with a fine needle.
- If there is previous filler that has led to an unwanted appearance, the doctor may first recommend dissolving it.
Limits and Realistic Expectations
Russian lip filler aims to increase the height of the lips and define their central part; on its own it does not correct fine wrinkles around the mouth. In people with little lip tissue, the desired height may not be achieved in a single session. Too much filler can give the lips an unnatural appearance. For people who want a permanent change and have a long distance between the upper lip and the nose, a lip lift operation may also be considered.
How Long It Lasts and Recovery
Because the filler is broken down by the body over time, the result is temporary; how long it lasts depends on the filler, the amount and the person. There may be swelling and bruising of the lips for a few days after the procedure. In the first days it is advisable not to press on the lips and to wait for the period recommended by the doctor before very hot environments and intense exercise. Blood-thinning or other regular medicines should not be stopped without asking a doctor and should be reported in advance to the doctor performing the procedure.
Possible Risks
Swelling and bruising are usually temporary. Less commonly, lumps, asymmetry, infection, cold sores, allergic reaction and blockage of a blood vessel by the filler may occur. If increasing pain, or whitening or purplish discolouration of the lip or the surrounding skin is noticed, a doctor should be contacted immediately. For more information you can visit our lip filler and lip lift pages.
Author: Op. Dr. Yücel Sarıaltın