Social media sensation and reality TV star Urfi Javed recently got candid about having her lip fillers dissolved. This has again sparked conversations around cosmetic surgeries and their side effects. Urfi Javed’s story has got many thinking if lip fillers are even safe. Are you also thinking of lip augmentation? Before you book an appointment, let’s break down what lip fillers are, how they work, and the dissolving process.

We spoke to Ahmedabad-based cosmetic and plastic surgeon Dr Kedarnath Pandya to understand how the lip filler procedure works. Here’s what he suggests.

Related: Urfi Javed Dissolves Lip Fillers: Redditors Share What Happens When You Get Rid Of Fillers

What are lip fillers?

The term ‘lip fillers’ might be the buzzword in the beauty industry these days. But do you know what it really means? According to Dr Pandya, lip fillers are soft, gel-like substances injected into the lips to enhance their volume, shape, and symmetry. Most fillers use hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps retain moisture and adds plumpness. But do you know how this acid works when injected into the lips?

How lip fillers work

“When injected, the filler integrates with the tissue and creates a fuller, smoother, and more defined appearance,” Dr Pandya explains. You can see the results immediately after the surgery. “Whether you want a subtle enhancement or a more noticeable pout, the procedure can be tailored to your preferences,” the expert says. But do lip fillers last long, or do they need frequent touch-ups?

Lip filler duration: What to expect, and how to maintain fillers

Even though lip fillers are injected from the outside, it’s your health that truly decides how long they will stick around. “Lip fillers generally last between six to 12 months, depending on the type of filler used, your body’s metabolism, and lifestyle habits,” Dr Pandya says. He also warns that factors like smoking, rigorous physical activity, or frequent exposure to sun and heat can cause fillers to break down faster. So, how can you maintain your lip fillers for a long time? The surgeon shares that many people opt for small top-up treatments every 6-9 months to maintain the results. Dr Pandya also suggests staying hydrated, using SPF on the lips, and following your injector’s aftercare instructions to help prolong the effect. While all these suggestions are necessary, not everyone can get lip fillers.

Who should avoid getting lip fillers?

Certain health and skin conditions can make lip fillers unsafe or less effective. Active skin infections like cold sores or acne in the treatment area might worsen if you go for cosmetic surgery, according to Dr Pandya. He also cautions people with bleeding or clotting disorders, autoimmune diseases, and severe allergies, especially to lidocaine or hyaluronic acid. Dr Pandya does not recommend lip filler surgery during pregnancy or breastfeeding. He recommends a consultation of detailed medical history before the treatment to ensure safety and suitability. But even if you are the right candidate for lip fillers, are you prepared for what comes after the procedure?

Side effects of getting lip fillers

Dr Pandya shares that there are both mild and severe complications after the lip filler procedure. The most temporary side effects include swelling, bruising, redness, tenderness, or slight asymmetry, which typically resolve within the first few days.

“More serious but rare complications can include infection, allergic reactions, formation of lumps, or filler migration,” Dr Pandya says. He also warns about the rarest side effect of lip augmentation. “In very rare cases, if the surgeon accidentally injects the filler into a blood vessel, it can lead to tissue damage,” the surgeon explains. Dr Pandya recommends choosing a qualified and experienced medical injector to minimise these risks. Some people, like Urfi Javed, also opt to dissolve their lip fillers temporarily. Is the procedure safe? Why do people dissolve their lip fillers?

How lip fillers are dissolved

Urfi Javed recently shared on Instagram that she dissolved her lip fillers as they were “misplaced”. That’s also one of the reasons Dr Pandya states for people dissolving their lip fillers. Other reasons include overfilled lips, migration (when filler spreads outside the intended area), asymmetry, or if people simply prefer a more natural look.

Dr Pandya also explains how the reversal procedure works. “The dissolving process involves injecting an enzyme called hyaluronidase into the lips. It breaks down the hyaluronic acid filler quickly and safely,” the surgeon says. You can see the result within 24-48 hours after the dissolving process is complete. But there are some precautions you must take for post-treatment care, especially if you plan to redo the lip fillers.

When should you get lip fillers again?

According to Dr Pandya, it’s important to wait for at least one to two weeks to allow the lips to settle fully before considering a new treatment. It’s because the tissue might be slightly inflamed or swollen. If you go for another lip filler surgery, it can affect the results. Dr Pandya also suggests discussing your aesthetic goals with your injector before opting for refilling. This will ensure a thorough reassessment of your lips’ anatomy for future safety.

If you want to connect with cosmetic and plastic surgeon Dr Kedarnath Pandya for more personalised advice on cosmetic procedures, you can find them here.

Related: Here’s Why Aunty Eve Thinks Getting Cosmetic Surgeries Is A Good Idea