Lip Filler Migration: Why It Happens And What Can Be Done

If you go on social media, you’ve likely seen all sorts of horror stories with people showing off their lip filler migration to the horrified fascination of their following. While lip filler can be a fantastic confidence booster, the last thing that you want to worry about is spending the money to get a treatment to enhance your appearance and then ending up feeling worse about yourself because the filler moved somewhere other than where it was injected.

As such, you’ll want to know why lip filler migration happens and what can be done about it prior to getting your lips filled. Here’s why filler migrates, how to avoid it, and what can be done if you do experience lip filler migration.

What Exactly Is Filler Migration?

Filler migration is when the filler moves from the spot it was injected into. It can happen with any filler, but more often than not with cheek filler, lip filler, and tear troughs. It can cause lumps or bumps, a puffy upper lip, a lack of a defined border, prevent lips from closing properly, and other such symptoms. Generally, people notice a pronounced fullness outside the border of their lips

As you can imagine, filler migration can distort your facial features. Filler in general is something that people have to be careful with; think of how many people have gotten their lips overfilled and now their entire face looks off. Fortunately, filler migration is both rare and something that you can take measures to prevent and treat.

How Common Is Lip Filler Migration?

Filler migration is a horror story, but when you go to an experienced professional, the chances of this happening are minimal. Bear in mind that this is a lot rarer than social media makes it seem. People love posting about negative things online. Especially if you’re going into the tags about lip filler migration, you’ll see it happen in seemingly staggering numbers.

However, remember that this is a very small percentage of the people who actually get their lips filled. The majority of people don’t experience filler migration. So, if your concern about the filler migrating has been holding you back from your dreams of pillowy, full lips, don’t let it!

What Causes Filler To Migrate?

There are multiple risk factors for lip filler migration, such as:

• Poor technique, which is why it’s crucial to see an experienced professional.
• Getting too much, as this can cause them to have more than they can hold, leading to a “filler mustache” or the dreaded duck lips. If an area is overfilled, this creates tension and increases the risk of migration as filler moves to an area with less pressure.
• Getting filler too frequently for the same reasons as above.
• Massaging the area too much, especially right after getting it, before it gets the chance to integrate with the tissues.
• Getting the wrong filler for your needs Different fillers are better suited for different needs.
• Getting the wrong layer of skin injected A skilled professional will know which layer to inject in order to prevent lip filler migration.

Especially when done by a board-certified plastic surgeon and with a newer filler, there is less cause for concern. Older fillers are more “slippery” and more likely to migrate, while newer fillers are better able to maintain their shape while still being soft.

When Does Lip Filler Migration Happen?

Lip filler migration can happen almost immediately as well as within days, weeks, or even months, depending on what’s causing the issue.

What Can You Do About Lip Filler Migration? 

Your body will naturally metabolize the filler over time, which is why you need to get your filler redone in order to maintain your results. As such, it’s up to you whether you want to wait it out or have it dissolved. If the migration is distorting your facial features, you may prefer to have the filler dissolved rather than wait for your body to metabolize it.

When you get filler dissolved, bear in mind that you may need multiple treatment sessions. You will need to wait for the area to heal completely before you try to have lip filler done again.

How To Avoid Lip Filler Migration

The best way to avoid lip filler migration is to see an experienced professional. They will tell you the right filler for you and how often you should come back. You should be able to trust them to tell you no and turn you away if you want too much filler or filler too frequently, as these increase the risk of lip filler migration and may not look right with your features besides.

The person you see should use known, trusted brands. They should also instruct you on appropriate aftercare, as lip filler migration can occur without correct aftercare.

Check out our previous blog, What You Need To Know Before Getting Lip Fillers for more information on realistic expectations for your lip filler.

Professional, Trusted Lip Filler Experts

Regeneration Health Medical Spa offers multiple different lip fillers in order to best suit your needs. Our lip fillers include Juvederm and Restylane. Our experienced professionals will consult with you about realistic expectations and the ideal filler for your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you achieve the fuller, younger-looking lips of your dreams.