Lip Filler in London, Ontario: Costs, What to Expect & How Long It Lasts

How does lip filler work?

Lip filler is a type of dermal filler made from synthetic hyaluronic acid, or HA. HA is a sugar molecule your body produces naturally, and it can hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water, which is what gives the lips added volume and hydration once it’s placed (Cleveland Clinic). Common HA lip filler brands include Juvederm and Restylane.

During treatment, your injector uses a fine needle to place small amounts of filler along the body of the lip, the border, the Cupid’s bow, or the corners of the mouth, depending on your goals. On average about 1 mL goes in, roughly one-fifth of a teaspoon, and the needle stays shallow, no deeper than about 2.5 mm (Cleveland Clinic). One nice thing about HA filler: it’s reversible. If you don’t love the result, an injector can dissolve it with an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

How much does lip filler cost in London, Ontario?

Lip filler is priced by the syringe. In the London, Ontario area, one syringe of HA lip filler generally ranges from about $400 to $800, and most people start with a single syringe for a natural result. Your final cost depends on how much product you need, the type of filler, and the experience of your injector. For a fuller breakdown of pricing and the factors behind it, see our guide to what lip filler costs in Canada. The most accurate number comes from an in-person assessment, since the right amount for balanced, natural-looking lips is different for everyone. You can review our lip filler service to see how treatment is approached.

How long does lip filler last?

Cleveland Clinic notes that lip fillers typically last 12 to 18 months, though the timeline varies with your metabolism. Here’s the catch with lips specifically. They move constantly through talking, eating, and smiling, and that steady motion breaks the filler down faster than in areas that stay still. So many people notice their lips softening somewhere in the 6 to 12 month range and choose to book a touch-up then. Younger, more active people with faster metabolisms often find the effect fades sooner. A personalized lip filler treatment plan can map out a maintenance schedule that fits how your body responds.

Does lip filler hurt?

Most people describe lip filler as uncomfortable rather than painful. Before starting, your injector applies a topical numbing cream, often a mix of benzocaine, lidocaine, and tetracaine, and gives it 15 to 30 minutes to take effect (Cleveland Clinic). Once you’re numb, you may feel pinching or pressure, and your eyes might water, but sharp pain is uncommon. Any tenderness afterward is usually mild and fades within 12 to 24 hours (Cleveland Clinic). The whole appointment can take as little as 30 minutes. If you want more detail on sensation and comfort, read about how much lip augmentation hurts and the factors involved.

What to expect after: swelling and aftercare

Swelling is the part that surprises first-timers. Your lips will look bigger in the first few days than they will once healed, and that’s expected. Most swelling eases within 24 to 48 hours, though it can take up to a week to fully settle, and your lips usually look close to their final result by around two weeks (Cleveland Clinic).

A few simple steps help recovery go smoothly:

• Apply a clean cold compress for up to 10 minutes at a time to ease swelling.
• Skip lipstick, balm, and other lip products for at least 24 hours.
• Avoid straws, smoking, and hard kissing for the first day.
• Hold off on exercise, saunas, and alcohol for about 24 hours.
• Drink water and sleep with your head slightly elevated.

For a complete list, see our guide on what not to do after lip fillers.

Are you a good candidate for lip filler?

Good candidates are in general good health, have realistic expectations, and don’t have an active oral infection such as a cold sore at the time of treatment (Cleveland Clinic). If you get cold sores often, tell your injector, since the needle can sometimes trigger a flare. HA lip filler has a strong safety record when it’s done by a qualified provider, but like any injection it carries some risk, including bruising, swelling, asymmetry, and, rarely, filler moving into nearby tissue. That’s why who does your treatment matters as much as the product. A consultation is the best way to find out if lip filler suits your goals. You can book a consultation with our team to talk through your options.

Frequently asked questions

Is lip augmentation the same as lip filler?

Lip filler is one method of lip augmentation. Augmentation is the broader term for any procedure that enhances the lips, which can include HA filler, a lip flip, or surgical options. For most people asking about a quick, non-surgical enhancement, lip filler is what they mean.

How much lip filler do I need for a natural look?

Many people start with a single 1 mL syringe, which is enough for subtle, balanced fullness in most cases. Some prefer to begin with half a syringe and build up over time. Your injector will recommend an amount based on your lip shape and goals.

Can lip filler be dissolved?

Yes. Because HA filler is reversible, an injector can dissolve it with an enzyme called hyaluronidase if you want to reduce volume or correct the shape (Cleveland Clinic).

How should I prepare for my appointment?

To lower the chance of bruising, many injectors suggest avoiding alcohol and blood-thinning supplements for a day or two beforehand, when it’s safe to do so. Come with clean lips and a clear idea of the look you want. Book any big event at least two weeks out so swelling has time to settle.

When will I see my final results?

You’ll see added volume right away, but that’s not the finished look. Swelling settles over one to two weeks, and the lips usually reach their final shape by about the two-week mark.

Sources

1. Cleveland Clinic — Lip Fillers: What to Expect, Types, Benefits & Side Effects
2. Cleveland Clinic — Dermal Fillers
3. American Society of Plastic Surgeons — 2023 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report

This article was medically reviewed by Derek Truong, NP, Medical Director at Infinite Medical Spa. It is for general education and is not a substitute for a personal consultation.