Male lip aesthetics is usually done by applying hyaluronic acid-based filler to the lip in small amounts under a doctor’s supervision. The aim is not to puff up the lip but to give a volume in harmony with the facial lines and a clear lip border. Whether the result looks natural depends on the technique applied, the amount of filler and the person’s lip structure.
The measure of a natural look in the male lip
On a male face, a natural look is achieved by a lip that is defined but not exaggerated. Male facial lines are generally sharper and straighter; for this reason an overly curvy, protruding and round lip looks out of harmony with the face.
In planning, the ratio of the upper to the lower lip, the position of the lip corners, and the balance with the chin and nose are evaluated together. Most of the time the aim is not to enlarge the lip but to correct asymmetry, define a lost border or make up for volume loss.
Lip filler techniques
There is no single method in lip filler; the doctor chooses the technique and the needle path according to the structure of the lip. The following are the most commonly heard approaches.
- Vermilion border (lip border) filler: It defines the line surrounding the red part of the lip. It is often preferred by men who have a faded lip contour.
- Russian technique (Russian lips): The filler is placed in a vertical direction and the lip looks slightly lifted and full. In men it needs to be planned carefully according to facial lines, because it can look too exaggerated.
- Butterfly technique: An approach that provides volume with a butterfly-wing-like placement spread over the centre and front surface of the lip.
- Cupid’s bow adjustment: It defines the curve in the middle of the upper lip. In men it is usually done with a light touch, without much emphasis.
- Horizontal widening and corner support: When the lip corners sit low or the lip looks narrow, small support is given to the corners, aiming for width in the horizontal direction and a more rested expression.
The amount of filler is expressed in cc (millilitres); 1 cc means one millilitre, and half a cc is half of that. Which amount is suitable is determined by the current volume of the lip and your expectation. For more about planning the amount, you can look at our article how the amount of filler is determined.
Planning for thin lips
In thin lips, the most suitable approach is first to understand the cause of the thin look. The lip may really have little volume, its border may be faded or its corners may be pointing downward; each requires a different technique.
- In lips with a faded border, the lip contour is defined first.
- In volume deficiency, gradual filler in a small amount is preferred for the body of the lip.
- If the lip looks narrow, horizontal widening and corner support are considered.
In thin lips, progressing gradually instead of using a lot of filler in a single session makes it easier to preserve a natural result. For general information about filler, you can take a look at the page how filler procedures work.
Swelling and bruising after the procedure
Mild swelling and sometimes bruising after lip filler is expected, because the lip is a sensitive area rich in blood vessels and the needle can touch the vessel wall. This is also the answer to why the injection site bruises: a small vessel is damaged and blood leaks into the tissue.
Swelling is generally noticeable in the first days and decreases over time. Bruising and purple spots resolve by changing colour over a period that varies from person to person. To support the process, you can apply a cold compress as your doctor recommends and avoid rubbing and massaging the lip. For details about oedema after filler, you can read our article how long swelling lasts after filler.
If you want to cover the bruising with makeup, it is important to wait until the injection site has healed and not to irritate the skin. Go to your doctor without waiting in case of the following signs:
- Pain that keeps increasing and becomes unbearable
- Whitening, paleness or dark purple-grey colour change on or around the lip
- Pain, hardness or new swelling that appears after months
When you return to normal life
Most people can return to their work and daily routine soon after lip filler; however, the time of return varies according to how noticeable the swelling and bruising are. If you have an important social event, it is wise not to schedule the procedure close to it.
- In the first days, avoid pressing on the lip, hard massage and excessive heat.
- Postpone activities that raise body heat, such as intense sport, saunas and Turkish baths, for the period your doctor specifies.
- Use a moisturiser to prevent dryness of the lips.
Questions about kissing and daily life
To kiss after lip filler, you need to wait for the swelling and sensitivity of the lip to pass; the exact time is determined by the doctor who performed the procedure. Pressure in the early period can both be bothersome and affect the placement of the filler.
In the first period the filler may be felt when touched or feel slightly hard. As the tissue settles, the lip softens, and noticing the filler while kissing generally decreases. If a hard, painful or lumpy feeling does not pass, it is appropriate to book a check-up appointment.
Doctor’s evaluation and an appointment in Izmir
The first step before deciding on lip aesthetics is for your lip and facial proportions to be evaluated by a physician. At the examination, your expectation, your lip structure, procedures you have had and the medications you use are discussed; the suitable technique and amount are determined according to this evaluation.
Demiderm offers a facial filler service in Izmir within its filler procedures. To see the service in detail, you can look at the Izmir filler procedures page, and you can get to know our team of doctors on the our doctors page.
Frequently asked questions
How is lip aesthetics done in men?
The doctor first evaluates your lip structure and facial proportions, then applies hyaluronic acid-based filler to specific areas of the lip with the chosen technique. In men the aim is usually to define the border and give a natural volume.
When can you kiss after lip filler?
You need to wait until the swelling and sensitivity pass; since this time varies by person and application, take the period your doctor gives as the basis. The filler may be felt when touched in the first period, and this feeling decreases as the tissue settles.
Which filler technique is suitable for thin lips?
This depends on why the lip looks thin: if the border is faded, vermilion border filler; if volume is lacking, gradual body filler; if the lip looks narrow, corner support and horizontal widening are considered. The doctor determines the right technique at the examination.
When does a purple swelling on the lip go away?
Bruising and swelling generally decrease within days and disappear by changing colour, but the time varies from person to person. If there is increasing pain, darkening of colour or whitening, go to your doctor without waiting.
Where should you apply for lip filler in Izmir?
You should have lip filler done in a medical setting, by applying to a clinic where it is performed by an authorised physician. Demiderm offers filler procedures in Izmir; for an examination you can make an appointment.
To discuss a plan suited to your lip structure and ask your questions directly to the doctor, you can reach us through our appointment page.
