Lip Filler Migration

Learn more about lip filler migration, if all fillers migrate, how to avoid lip fillers migrating, and how to correct migrated lip fillers. 

What is Lip Filler Migration?

Filler migration happens when fillers move from a chosen injection spot to an adjacent area. This results in an undesirable, almost duck-like aesthetic for the lips.

How to identify migrated lip filler

The key identifying feature of a migrated lip is a ‘ledge’ appearance above the vermillion border. The vermillion border is the border that attaches the coloured part of your lips to the rest of your skin.

lip fillers showing vermillion border in red deer alberta

Natural Lip Filler

You can see in these beautifully filled lips that the vermillion border is defined without looking overfilled.

migrated lip filler before and after photo

Migrated Lip Filler Photo

This image shows a client who had migrated filler in her upper lip.

The results after dissolving and refilling are natural and voluminous.

What causes filler migration?

The reasons for filler migration are multi-faceted. Migration can happen immediately post-treatment, or it may take weeks or months to appear, it really depends on the cause.

  • Too much filler can result in an unnatural, puffy appearance, and increases the potential for filler migration. When we overload the lips with more filler than they can handle it creates tension and the fillers will make their way to an area with less pressure. This results in migration out of the vermillion border, creating the ‘duck lips’ appearance.

  • Getting fillers too frequently can result in the same outcome as getting too much filler in one appointment. Although you’ll want to maintain your results, your injector will let you know if it’s too soon.

  • Manipulation of the lips. Post-treatment you should avoid straws, smoking, or anything that results in the puckering of your lips. Failure to do so can move the filler before it has time to settle.

  • Injecting the wrong layer of skin will result in migration. That’s one reason why you should go to a professional with a strong understanding of anatomy.

  • Filler type used. There are many different brands of HA fillers and each brand has multiple different products. An experienced injector will know exactly what they are doing.

  • Age can factor in as well. Older clients’ skin lacks the structural integrity of a younger client. This puts them at a higher risk of migration. Selecting the appropriate filler type is key.

Do All Fillers Migrate?

Filler migration is uncommon. Although all fillers have the ability to migrate, it doesn’t happen often. That is why it is important to use a professional that understands the anatomy of the face when you are getting face fillers. While filler migration is a risk, it is not common with proper injection techniques and appropriate filler selection. Consulting with a qualified and experienced practitioner can significantly minimize the chances of filler migration and ensure optimal results.

Correcting Lip Filler migration.

Regardless of what may have caused the migration, the solution is to dissolve filler using hylaronadaise. Hylaronadaise is an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid. Hylaronadaise will only dissolve HA filler and will not affect your body’s natural HA. You may need multiple sessions of hylaronadaise to ensure we’ve dissolved all the filler. After 2-4 weeks you can get fillers again.

Filler Migration Photos Before, Dissolving and After

Notice the bump on the vermillion border before dissolving

After refilling the lips are defined and natural looking.

side profile of lip filler migrated before and after

Look at the improvement of this side profile!

Those 2-4 weeks after dissolving can feel like a long-time but the results make it worth it!

Avoiding Lip Filler Migration

To prevent filler migration from happening in the first place, follow these tips which will significantly reduce your filler from migrating:

  • Choose an Experienced Injector: Ensure that your provider has extensive experience with the type of filler you are considering and a deep understanding of facial anatomy.

  • Follow Post Filler Treatment Instructions: Avoid manipulating or massaging the treated area unless instructed by your provider. Follow all aftercare recommendations.

  • Gradual Treatments: Opting for gradual treatments and touch-ups rather than large volumes in a single session can reduce the risk of migration.

Reminder

  • If your injector recommends dissolving filler

  • If your injector wants to wait before adding more fillers

  • if your injector doesn’t want to add the quantity your asking for

LISTEN!

They are professionals with years of experience and continue to educate themselves to be experts in their field. They understand anatomy and aesthetics and want the best-looking outcome for you!

Book Lip Filler in Red Deer

If you’d like to meet with our professional team to find out more about natural-looking lip fillers, book a consultation! We can discuss any concerns you may have and advise you on how best to avoid lip filler migration and get natural, plump lips.

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