Everything you need to know before getting lip injections in Kamloops, Kelowna and Vernon, BC.
If you’re here, chances are you’re wondering about lip augmentation in Kelowna, Kamloops or Vernon—how they work, if they’ll look natural, how much they cost, and if they are even the right option for you. As a cosmetic injector and a Naturopathic Doctor, I take a natural approach to all the cosmetic injections I offer, including lip fillers and lip flips.
Typically, new patients come to me looking to add volume to their lips, but that’s not always exactly what they actually want. Creating symmetry, reducing gummy smile and keeping your lips in harmony with the rest of your facial features is the best way to ensure natural-looking results.
We don’t want to overdo any one feature; when we add volume to your lips they need to stay proportional to avoid looking unnatural. For example, if too much volume is added to the lips without addressing the chin, the chin can appear recessed and lead to a disproportionate profile. Together, we’ll work to make sure the results feel authentic—whether that means a little volume boost, smoothing out fine lines, or defining the shape of your lips.
My holistic approach to aesthetics is designed to help you feel confident externally, but also confident and at ease with your choices. I don’t believe anyone needs lip injections, but I do believe in having the choice to do what’s best for you without judgement. Here’s everything you need to know about lip filler injections with me in Kelowna, Kamloops and Vernon.
What are lip fillers?
Lip fillers are an injectable treatment, typically a hyaluronic acid (HA) formula, designed to temporarily enhance lip volume, create symmetry, and increase hydration. HA is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the skin and connective tissues, making it biocompatible and well accepted by the body. HA-based fillers, such as Revanesse®, integrate seamlessly into the lips maintaining flexibility and softness. Because hyaluronic acid attracts and retains water, lip fillers not only add volume but also improve lip hydration for approximately six months.
What is a lip flip?
Lip flips use botulinum toxin (commonly referred to as botox) to temporarily enhance the appearance of the lips without actually adding volume. By injecting small amounts of botox into the orbicularis oris muscle, which surrounds the mouth, the muscle relaxes, causing the upper lip to gently roll outward. This subtle change creates the illusion of increased lip volume in the upper lip without adding actual filler.
A lip flip is an excellent option for individuals who want a more defined upper lip or a slightly enhanced smile without additional volume. It can also help reduce a gummy smile by allowing the upper lip to cover more of the gums when smiling. Since the effects of botox are temporary, typically lasting two to four months, lip flips are less of a commitment than lip fillers.
Can I get lip filler and a lip flip?
For those looking for more dramatic lip enhancement, a lip flip can be combined with lip fillers. This approach balances additional volume with a natural lift. During your consultation, I’ll access your lip anatomy and we can discuss whether a lip flip, filler, or a combination of both is the best option for your desired results.
Do lip fillers hurt?
I am mindful that pain tolerance varies from individual to individual, however, most patients find the lip injections to be quite tolerable. To minimize discomfort, a topical anesthetic (lidocaine-based numbing cream) can be applied to the injection site prior to your treatment. Additionally, many hyaluronic acid-based fillers—including my trusted brand, Revanesse®—contain lidocaine, which helps further reduce sensation during the procedure.
Lip injections are performed using a fine-gauge needle or a blunt-tipped cannula, depending on your individualized treatment. You may feel mild pressure, a slight pinch, or stinging at the injection sites, but the numbing agent significantly reduces sensitivity.
After the procedure, it is normal to experience mild swelling, tenderness, or bruising at the injection sites. These effects are typically mild and subside within a few days. Applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling, and avoiding excessive lip movement, alcohol, and blood-thinning medications before and after treatment can minimize bruising. Most patients can resume normal activities within the first 24 hours, but please follow my guide to before and after care for specifics.
Related Reading: The Secret to More Comfortable Injections
How long is downtime for lip fillers?
In general, yes you can go back to work immediately following your lip injections. That being said, it is dependent on you, the nature of your job and how your body typically reacts to the treatment. Lip fillers (and lip flips in particular!) require minimal downtown. You’ll likely experience some swelling or bruising immediately afterward, but this usually goes away within a few days.
Most people feel comfortable returning to work or daily activities the very next day, just be sure to avoid heavy exercise or heat for the first 24 hours. At your lip filler appointment, we’ll review my guide to before and after care to make sure you not only get the best results, but that you’re able to get back to your usual schedule as quickly as possible too.
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How noticeable is a half syringe of lip filler?
The most common question I receive from those new to lip fillers is: Should I get a half syringe or full syringe? And the answer depends on a variety of factors, including personal preference. Since I use Revanesse®, which is 1.2 ml for a full syringe, a half syringe at 0.6 ml is a little more formula than you’d typically get when receiving a half syringe from another brand. In order to provide you sound advice for your individual needs, I do require an in-person consultation at one of my locations across Kelowna, Vernon and Kamloops. That being said, I tend to opt for starting with a half syringe and building up lip volume slowly to avoid filler migration. There is no doubt that beautiful results can be achieved with both a half syringe and a full syringe of lip filler—when injected correctly.
How much should I expect to pay for lip filler?
The price of your lip filler in Kelowna, Kamloops or Vernon will be dependent on a few factors, including the amount of product required (full vs. half syringe), the cosmetic injector you choose and the brand of filler being used. Lip filler injections with me are approximately $600 per full syringe of Revanesse®. Lip filler typically lasts between six and 12 months and can be maintained with minimal touch-up once desired volume/shape is achieved. Lip flips are significantly less of an investment only requiring approximately six units of botox total for the treatment. The best way to receive an accurate estimate for your lip injections is by booking in your complimentary consultation with me at any of my six locations across Vernon, Kelowna and Kamloops.
Does brand of lip filler matter?
Yes, the brand of lip filler does matter. Different brands offer unique formulations, manufacturing processes, and product longevity, all of which can influence the outcome of your treatment.
Revanesse®, the first and only dermal filler manufactured in Canada, is known for its high-quality hyaluronic acid-based fillers. One of the standout features of Revanesse® is its advanced manufacturing process, which creates a smoother, more uniform gel. This results in a filler that is easier to inject, provides natural-looking results, and is less likely to cause swelling or bruising.
Additionally, Revanesse® fillers are designed with a sophisticated particle shape that is more readily accepted by the body, leading to longer-lasting results and improved patient comfort. Its formulation also includes lidocaine to help minimize discomfort during the procedure.
Choosing a reputable brand like Revanesse® ensures you receive a product that has been rigorously tested for safety and effectiveness, giving you peace of mind and beautiful, natural-looking results.
How long do lip fillers last?
Generally, lip fillers last anywhere from six to 9 months, depending on factors like the type of filler used and how your body metabolizes it. Some people find that their results last longer, while others may require touch-ups sooner. I always recommend scheduling your lip filler appointments in Kelowna and Kamloops at regular intervals to both maintain your results, and give us time to check in and make sure you’re still happy with the way your lips are looking.
How long do lip flips last?
A lip flip typically lasts eight to 12 weeks. It involves injecting a small amount of botox into the muscles around the upper lip, causing it to subtly flip outward for a fuller appearance. Results appear within three to seven days and wear off gradually as the body metabolizes the product.
Is there a downside to lip fillers?
Common side effects for lip fillers include swelling, bruising and tenderness, which resolve within the first week. In rare cases, some people might experience lumps or asymmetry, but these concerns can usually be adjusted easily through a follow-up treatment. Unlike botox, dermal fillers technically are reversible. If you experience filler migration or are unhappy with your results, HA filler can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This is a naturally occurring enzyme that breaks down HA molecules, allowing the body to absorb and metabolize them more rapidly.
A potential downside is that the results are temporary. While this gives you the flexibility to tweak things as time goes on, it also means you’ll need follow-up treatments to maintain your desired results. Overall, lip fillers in Kelowna, Kamloops and Vernon are a safe way to refresh your lips when administered by a trained, experienced cosmetic injector.
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Can lip fillers be reversed?
Yes! In the instance your lip filler shifts or settles in a way that doesn’t quite align with your expectations overtime, we can always dissolve the volume using an enzyme, called hyaluronidase. All cosmetic injection providers should have hyaluronidase on hand during your treatment in case of emergencies. If they don’t, consider it a red flag and choose another provider.
Do lip injections ever look natural?
Yes! You’d likely not know most—if not all—of my patients have even had work done on their lips. Well this means my work is usually in the shadows, I actually prefer it this way! It is up to my patients to share whether or not they have had lip injections. Oftentimes lip filler gets a bad rep because of the extremes that we see on reality TV and with A-list outliers.
I want to assure you that my goal is never to make your lips look “fake” or overdone. The key to great results is subtlety and balance. I’ll work with the natural shape of your lips and take into consideration your overall facial proportions to create a look that’s both natural and beautiful. We always start with small amounts and gradually build up to your desired volume. Please know, I’ll always tell it like it is—I have been known to turn away patients in the past who have asked for extreme lip volume that is against my best practices.
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Lip Injections in Kelowna, Vernon and Kamloops
Whether you want to restore volume, create balance, or address a gummy smile, lip fillers and lip flips may be the right solution for you. I currently offer cosmetic injections at six locations across Kamloops, Kelowna and Vernon. Please feel free to book your complimentary lip filler consultation at the location most convenient for you.
