Uncover the Secrets of the Russian Lip Filler Technique

Currently turning heads on social media is the “Russian lips” technique as a new and popular cosmetic medical procedure. Indeed, the Russian lip filler technique, which requires a different pattern of injections as compared to typical lip filler methods, creates a distinct and attractive look that more people are seeking.

However, before committing to Russian lip injections, it’s important to understand exactly what makes this cosmetic procedure different from others in terms of its process and effects. As with any procedure, it’s important to find a qualified and experienced medical professional for any Russian lip filler procedure.

Overview of the Russian Lip Filler Technique

First, it’s important to understand that the Russian lip filler technique doesn’t use a special type of lip filler. It’s the technique itself that is different.

Practitioners use the same lip filler brands for the Russian lip filler technique that can be found in other lip filler techniques. These brands include Juvéderm® and Restylane®. Understanding “Russian lips” is more about understanding what a practitioner does during the procedure, the relative benefits, and the potential drawbacks of this different approach.

How the Russian Lip Filler Technique Is Different

Standard lip filler procedures use horizontally oriented injections that are designed to add outward volume to the lips.

In contrast, the Russian lip filler technique uses strategically placed vertical injections that are designed to accentuate the cupid’s bow and add height to the lips, rather than projection. The result is a more “heart-shaped” lip that lacks the protrusion typically associated with lip fillers. When properly done, the Russian lip draws the eye to the center of the patient’s lips and properly proportions the surrounding areas.

Good Candidates for the Russian Lip Filler Technique

Healthy patients looking to focus on adding height to the central part of lips or prefer the overall look of the Russian lip filler technique are great candidates for this procedure. However, anatomy matters. Because of the multi-dimensional contouring of the Russian technique, individuals with lips on the thinner side may not have the same results as those with naturally fuller lips. These patients may need to gradually stretch and fill their lips over time, requiring more than one application to achieve their desired results.

Benefits of Russian Lip Filler

The clearest benefit of the Russian lip filler technique is the different look they achieve. The focus of this technique is on the cupid’s bow of the upper lip, which creates an almost doll-like pout that can look very natural and polished with proper makeup application. Once the desired results are achieved the filler’s effects can last for six to 12 months, so the patient may not need to return for retreatment often.

Potential Risks of Russian Lip Filler

The risks of getting lip filler using the Russian technique are basically the same as any lip filler procedure. For example, patients may experience pain, bruising, and swelling near the injection site in the hours and days following the procedure.

Depending on the placement of the filler and the patient’s anatomy, there is a risk of uneven appearance, lumps, or bumps under the surface of the skin.

Lastly, there is a risk of allergy or vascular complications with any procedure. These risks are why it is so important to find an experienced and skilled medical professional for the Russian lip filler technique who can reduce the risk of negative treatment outcomes.

What to Expect When Getting Russian Lip Filler

Although lip fillers are a minimally invasive procedure in any circumstance, it’s still important to prepare for the procedure ahead of time and know what to expect. Because of the precise nature of this lip technique, proper preparation and expectations are the best way to ensure success.

Preparing for a Russian Lip Filler Procedure

One of the most important steps to take before a Russian lip filler procedure is to schedule a detailed consultation with the medical facility that is performing the procedure.

The consultation should include reviewing a detailed medical history, including discussing any current medications or allergies that could negatively affect the results of the procedure. Your chosen medical professional should also review what to expect in terms of likely Russian lip filler results and compare those results (and their associated costs) to different lip filler options, including traditional techniques for lip filler.

What to Expect During a Russian Lip Filler Procedure

The preparation for a Russian lip filler procedure is not much different than any other common cosmetic procedure. It usually begins with a medical practitioner applying a topical numbing agent to the area around the lips where they will be injecting filler. This helps to minimize pain during the procedure.

Before starting the injections, it’s important to note that the nature of this method is that it includes a larger number of injections, but it uses less filler in each injection. Therefore, the procedure usually takes approximately 30 to 40 minutes, which is a bit longer than traditional filler methods at an average of 15 to 20 minutes.

The practitioner begins by putting a series of injections in a vertical pattern along the vermillion border of the lip, with special attention paid to the cupid’s bow.

The filler is placed at an upward angle along the top lip and at a downward angle along the bottom, creating what is known as a “tenting” effect. This is what creates the unique profile of the Russian lip, adding vertical volume, rather than horizontal.

Recovery After Russian Lip Filler Procedure

In the hours and days following a Russian lip filler procedure, common side effects include light bruising along the areas of injection as well as some swelling and discomfort that may make the lips appear larger or asymmetrical at first.

This is part of the body’s natural defenses, and these effects generally last no longer than one to four days. During this time, it’s a good idea to apply ice and avoid touching the lip area or drinking through a straw until the area heals.

Patients should also avoid applying makeup to the area for the first hour following the procedure.

Choosing the Right Practitioner for Russian Lip Filler Technique

When an experienced and skilled practitioner uses the Russian lip filler technique, it’s a safe, effective, and beautiful cosmetic augmentation that makes a real impression. However, because of the precise nature of Russian lip filler injections, the person performing the procedure is as important as the procedure chosen — whether it’s a Russian lip filler or another technique.

One good way to learn about patient experiences is to ask to review a portfolio of lip filler before and after photos, which should include samples of their work.

Lip Filler at The Rejuva Center

The professional medical staff at The Rejuva Center at Williams in Albany, New York, has extensive experience with all types of lip filler applications, including the Russian lip filler technique. We would love to show you some samples of our work and discuss how you might benefit from a Russian lip filler application. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.