Do lip fillers hurt?
Lip fillers are perceived as painful. On average, clients give a treatment a pain score of 3-4 (scale 1-10). There are various anesthetic options and treatment techniques. Read all the information below and find a suitable clinic near you.
Are lip fillers painful?
Many people considering cosmetic filler treatments dread the pain. This isn't always the case. Some treatments are painless, while others take just seconds. Some filler treatments can be painful. Most people find lip fillers somewhat sensitive. There are various treatment techniques, some more sensitive than others. There are also ways to numb the area. Is lip filler surgery painful? This article provides tips and tricks for dealing with painful procedures!
Lip fillers pain
In general, a lip filler treatment is considered sensitive. However, the level of discomfort varies greatly per treatment. Important factors include the injection technique used, the type of anesthesia, the skill of the doctor, and the client’s personal pain threshold. The following lip filler treatment techniques are common:
Lip fillers with needle, standard technique
With the standard technique (also called the "normal technique" or "linear technique"), the lips are filled using a needle. An ultra-thin needle (typically 30 gauge, much thinner than a vaccination needle) is inserted into the lip tissue. With each injection, the filler is distributed in small amounts across the desired areas.
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Russian technique (Russian technique)
With the Russian Technique, the lips are filled with many small injections starting from the lip edge. The Russian technique is more painful because the lip line is more sensitive than the lip red. Multiple injections are also required. The Russian technique can optimize the shape of the lips. For example, 'flat lips' and 'heart-shape lips' are trends that can be better achieved with the Russian technique.
Lip augmentation with a cannula
Lips can also be filled with a cannula. A small hole is made in the corners of the mouth through which the blunt cannula can be inserted. The cannula then fills the entire lip with a retracting motion. This treatment is safe, but slightly less precise than lip fillers with a needle.
Lip filler anesthesia
There are several methods to numb the lips before a treatment. This can be done with Emla cream, a “dental anesthetic,” or with anesthesia mixed into the filler itself. Each method has its own characteristics and benefits.
Emla cream lip filler
EMLA is a cream that numbs the skin. It is often used for lip treatments. With EMLA, the needle prick is felt less. The cream must be applied at least 30 minutes before treatment. It works fairly well, but not as effectively as a dental anesthetic.
Dental anesthetic for lip filler
A “dental anesthetic” involves 2 small injections. Using an ultra-thin needle, the lips are completely numbed for several hours. The active ingredient is lidocaine. This method provides the least painful lip treatment.
Lip filler with anesthesia
Many fillers already contain lidocaine mixed in. Brands such as Belotero, Juvéderm, and Restylane commonly include it. The advantage is that you don’t need to wait 30 minutes (like with EMLA cream) or receive an extra injection (like with a dental anesthetic). The downside is that the anesthetic takes a few seconds to work, and the syringe contains a fraction less filler since part of the content is lidocaine.
Do fillers hurt?
For most filler treatments, the pain level is similar to lip fillers. However, areas such as tear troughs, jawline, or chin fillers are generally considered less painful. You can always discuss anesthesia options with your doctor.
How long does pain last after lip filler?
After treatment, the lips may hurt due to swelling or peeling skin. This creates tension in the lips. It is recommended to cool the area regularly (with a cloth between the ice pack and skin). Applying Vaseline in the first few days also helps. All discomfort should disappear within 2 weeks. If not, contact your treating doctor.
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Dr. Samir Rahmani is exceptionally professional, reassuring, and truly outstanding in his field. His calm approach and clear explanations made the whole journey smooth and stress-free.
Special thanks to his incredible assistant Ms. Nour, whose daily follow-ups and warm attitude made me feel like I was in the safest hands.
I would also like to express my appreciation to Dr. Malak, the nutrition specialist, and the front-desk team. Their friendliness, consistency, and professionalism created an environment that felt more like a family than a clinic.
My recovery was remarkably easy — I returned to work just two days after the surgery, felt no pain, and lost 5 kg in the first four days while already back to driving.
The emotional and psychological support they provided was unbelievable and truly exceeded my expectations.
Honestly, I don’t even know how to express how happy I am with this entire experience. I am extremely grateful to this amazing team and highly recommend them to anyone considering this journey. Show less »
The facility at Thumbay Hospital is outstanding. The front desk staff is cooperative, organized and always ready to assist. Overall, it was a very smooth and positive experience. I highly recommend Ms. Roohin Saiyad and the hospital for quality physiotherapy care. Show less »
Frequently Asked Questions about the Pain of Lip Fillers
How painful are lip fillers?
A lip filler is quite sensitive. The pain is assessed with a pain score of 3-4. The pain depends on the treatment technique and also whether lidocaine (anesthetic) is included in the lip filler.
Does lip augmentation hurt?
Lip fillers are generally perceived as painful. Pain is rated as 3-4 on a scale of 1-10. Pain varies from person to person and depends on the treatment technique used. Lidocaine (anesthesia) in the filler also reduces pain.
How long does it hurt after lip filler?
The pain of the treatment is much less immediately afterward. It is certainly bearable, especially if a small area has not been treated. It will, however, feel a little sore and strange for a few days. Good and frequent cooling in the first 24 hours has a positive effect on the pain.