Lip Filler Gone Wrong: Signs, Solutions, and Prevention Tips

Written by an Expert Aesthetic Content Writer Lisa.
Reviewed by Expert Medical Director Dr. Raj Thethi
Published on: June 19, 2024
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Fillers

Lip Filler

Lip filler gone wrong is a nightmare for anyone seeking fuller lips. Lip fillers have been a popular way to achieve a perfect pout and defined lips, but in rare cases, the results do not turn out as expected. A bad lip filler experience can cause more than cosmetic concerns, from asymmetry to severe swelling. However, staying informed about the risks and finding a good practitioner can save you from this mishap. 

This blog will explain the signs that your lip filler has gone wrong, outline the solutions, and provide tips on how to prevent this from happening. Let’s get into the details. 

Recognising The Signs Of Lip Filler Gone Wrong

Mild swelling and bruising are normal after getting lip fillers. But how can you differentiate between expected side effects and signs of a bad lip filler experience? It’s tricky. 

Stay informed. Here, we have gathered the signs of lip filler gone wrong. They include:

► Severe & Prolonged Swelling

Mild swelling and redness after lip injections are normal and subside within 2-3 days. But when the lip filler goes wrong, you may notice prolonged severe swelling accompanied by intense redness. It may also be a sign of an allergic reaction. 

► Duck-Like Appearance

Duck-like lips appear due to the over-injection of filler. This happens when the practitioner does not consider the natural colour of your lips and overfills the material. It is a common issue and gives an unnatural look. 

► Unbalanced Lips

Inexperienced injection techniques lead to uneven filling. This gives your lip an uneven and asymmetrical shape, where one side looks more prominent than the other. Uneven lips tell that the ip filler has gone wrong. 

► Lumps & Bumps

Lumps and bumps on lips

When the quality of the filling material is compromised or injected via improper technique, it clumps together into your lips rather than dispersing equally. The clumping forms lumps or nodules, which makes your lips look bumpy.

► Lip Filler Material Displacement

Filler migration occurs when the injected product moves from the intended site, causing the lips to appear misshapen or uneven. Excessive lip movement or deep injections can cause displacement and make the filler go wrong. 

► Allergy

Although the lip filler treatment is safe, it can cause allergic reactions in rare cases. Severe swelling, bruising, redness or itching are signs of an allergic reaction and should be discussed with the provider immediately.

► Difficult of Restricted Movements

Sometimes, overfilling makes the lip or any other facial movements difficult or restricted. This resolves when the lip filler settles in. However, when restriction or difficulty lasts longer, it’s a sign of lip filler gone wrong. 

► Pain or Discomfort

Persistent pain, tenderness, or discomfort in the lips beyond the initial swelling phase may indicate an inflammatory response or nerve irritation. This could be due to filler placement near nerves or tissues sensitive to the filler material.

Suppose you notice any signs of a lip filler gone wrong. In that case, you must talk to your doctor immediately for timely management. 

What Are The Solutions After Lip Injection Gone Wrong?

Depending on the severity of the mishap, several fixes may be considered. 

Solutions include:

► Gentle Massage

When there is minor asymmetry or unbalanced lip appearance, massage may help. Your practitioner may massage the lips gently to redistribute the material evenly and improve the results. 

► Hyaluronidase Injection

Hyaluronidase Injection on lips

Hyaluronidase is an enzyme that breaks down hyaluronic acid (lip filler material) and gradually dissolves it. This process effectively resolves issues like lumps, overfilling, or advanced asymmetry. 

► Steroid Injections

This is the solution when there is severe swelling and bruising after lip fillers, accompanied by persistent pain. A steroid injection resolves the swelling, reduces pain, and promotes faster healing. 

► Surgical Solutions

Surgical solutions are chosen in rare and extreme cases where the filler migrates and causes severe deformity. Surgical correction helps achieve the normal shape of lips after the lip filler goes wrong.

It is essential to seek advice from an experienced practitioner to discuss the appropriate treatment. Sometimes, staying patient and giving the filler time to settle resolves minor issues. 

How To Avoid A Bad Lip Filler Experience? Prevention Tips For You

Here are a few prevention tips to avoid the experience of lip filler gone wrong:

► Step-by-Step Approach

It is recommended not to jump on building lip volume. Always start with conservative lip treatments for a fuller look and gradually step towards building the volume. This approach will let you achieve natural-looking results and avoid any complications.

► Choose The Right Practitioner

When getting lip fillers, always choose a qualified medical practitioner. Research their credentials, experience, and reputation before scheduling an appointment. 

► Choose A Clinical Setting

Always choose a doctor-led setting. Clinics provide a sterile environment with proper equipment and trained staff, ensuring your safety and minimising the risk of complications.

► Communicate Your Goals

Communication is the key. Before getting your fillers done, always discuss your desired aesthetic goals with your doctor during the initial consultation. A skilled practitioner will listen to you and create a customised treatment plan to avoid mishaps. 

► Never Compromise on Quality And Hygiene

Quality And Hygiene

Ensure that your chosen clinic uses FDA-approved treatment materials and instruments. Look if they follow strict hygiene standards. Sterilization and quality of products let you stay away from lip filler disasters. 

► Commit To After Care

After you get your lip fillers done:

1. Stay committed to the aftercare.

2. Follow all the instructions given by your provider to minimise any after-effects, like swelling or bruising.

3. Avoid intense activities and apply icing accordingly.

These tips are essential for ensuring a safe and successful lip filler experience. 

Stay Informed And Avoid The Mishap of Lip Filler Gone Wrong

Experiencing complications from bad lip fillers can be upsetting. Signs of lip filler gone wrong may include severe and prolonged swelling, uneven lip shape, filler migration or allergic reactions. Choosing a skilled practitioner, communicating, starting with minor treatments, and following aftercare instructions are key to avoiding lip filler mishaps. Before getting lip fillers, a dermal filler consultation in Leeds may help. Stay informed and proactive to ensure a safe and satisfying lip augmentation experience. 

FAQs About Lip Filler Gone Wrong

1. How do I know if my lip filler has gone wrong?

Know that your lip filler has gone wrong if you notice signs like:

  • Lumpy or bumpy lips
  • Uneven lip shape
  • Restricted or complex face/lip movements
  • Severe swelling or bruising even after days of treatment
  • Allergic reaction

2. Who should not get lip fillers?

The following individuals should not get lip filler treatment:

  • Allergic to filler material
  • Blood disorders
  • Having unrealistic expectations
  • Active skin infections

3. How to avoid 1ml lip filler gone wrong?

Avoid the 1ml lip filler gone wrong scenario by following the tips:

  • Start from conservative treatments
  • Choose a qualified practitioner
  • Follow aftercare
  • Ensure quality and safety of treatment

4. What are the mistakes in lip filler treatment?

When done by an inexperienced practitioner, the following mistakes can happen:

  • Overfilling 
  • Injecting deep into ips
  • Attempting vertical injection technique on thin lips
  • Not considering upper lip crease
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About the Author

Dr. Raj Thethi

Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC-registered medical clinic. It is led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetics. Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty.

View all posts by Dr. Raj Thethi

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