Lip Filler Techniques

Schedule free consultation
lip filler techniques

Learn the various lip filler techniques, from linear threading to Russian lips, to find the perfect method for your desired lip shape and volume.

When considering lip filler techniques, you have several options to enhance your lip shape and volume. The Linear Threading Technique involves injecting filler parallel to the vermillion border for defined lips and increased volume. 

The Tenting Technique injects filler directly into the lip body for volume and fullness, while the Fanning Technique uses a fan-shaped pattern for natural, balanced results. 

The Russian Lip Technique focuses on creating a heart-shaped contour by enhancing the cupid’s bow and central lip area. The Microdroplet Technique offers precise, subtle enhancements with minimal risk of bruising. For lower lip projection, the Lower Lip Vermilion Roll is ideal. 

Each technique requires precision and understanding of facial anatomy to achieve aesthetically pleasing results, and exploring these methods further will help you find the best fit for your needs.

Linear Threading Technique

The Linear Threading Technique is a method frequently employed in lip filler injections to enhance the shape and volume of the lips. This technique involves using a small needle or cannula to inject the filler in a linear pattern, parallel to the vermillion border of the lips.

During the procedure, the injector will carefully insert the needle into the superficial tissues, ensuring it’s at the correct depth, and then inject the filler as the needle is withdrawn backwards, a method known as a retrograde linear thread.

To achieve optimal results, it’s crucial to start with a thorough patient consultation to understand your aesthetic goals and existing lip volume.

The Linear Threading Technique is particularly effective for enhancing lip definition and increasing volume, making it a popular choice for patients seeking predictable outcomes.

The filler longevity can vary, but hyaluronic acid fillers, commonly used in this technique, are known for their consistent results and safety record.

Tenting Technique

lip filler techniques

The Tenting Technique is a method that involves injecting the filler directly into the body of the lip to provide volume and fullness. This technique is characterized by vertically entering the lip from above or below at right angles to the vermillion border, creating a ‘tent-pole’ effect that projects the white roll of the lip without filling it directly.

When using the Tenting Technique, you need to be precise about the entry point of the needle. Some clinicians enter the white lip at the white-pink border, while others enter higher up, approximately 3-4mm from the vermilion border. This precision is crucial to avoid trauma to the labial arteries and to achieve the desired aesthetic result.

The tenting benefits include efficient rotation of the lip upwards and outwards, enhancing the canine arc and unrolling the lower lip. This technique allows for better control over the filling’s shape and volume, providing a more natural look by avoiding the blunt filling effect associated with other methods.

However, there are tenting considerations to keep in mind. The technique can be associated with bruising and requires careful handling to avoid vascular injury. Additionally, it may involve multiple injections, which can be traumatic if not done carefully.

Using high-quality fillers and post-procedure massage can help minimize complications and ensure optimal results.

Russian Lip Technique

After mastering the Tenting Technique, you may want to explore the Russian Lip Technique, a method that has gained significant popularity for its natural and balanced aesthetic outcomes.

This technique involves injecting hyaluronic acid filler into specific areas of the lips to create a more defined, heart-shaped contour, often likened to a Russian doll.

The Russian Lip Technique focuses on vertically injecting the filler into the center of the lower lip and the cupid’s bow area of the upper lip. This approach enhances the lip anatomy by accentuating the cupid’s bow and boosting the height of the lips, rather than just adding volume to the sides.

The vertical injection technique starts at the base of the lip and draws the product outward, ensuring a more natural and subtle heart shape.

This method is ideal for those seeking a natural finish, as it lifts the lip rather than adding excessive volume.

The filler longevity for the Russian Lip Technique is similar to traditional methods, typically lasting 6-12 months with touch-ups needed every 3-9 months.

It’s crucial to find a skilled injector who can tailor this technique to your unique lip anatomy and aesthetic goals.

Fanning Technique

The Fanning Technique is a versatile and effective method for achieving balanced and natural-looking results. It involves injecting filler in a fan-shaped pattern. After the needle or cannula passes under the skin, you lay down a product thread as you withdraw the needle. 

Instead of removing the needle completely, you change the angle and create another product thread back towards the entry point, repeating this process in a radial pattern.

Benefits of the Fanning Technique

The Fanning Technique is ideal for injecting thin lips, helping to achieve a fuller appearance. It also provides a natural spread and organic-looking results.

Choosing the Right Needle or Cannula

Cannulas are often preferred for reduced pain, bruising, and vascular complications. When choosing a needle or cannula, consider the size and type of filler being used.

Aftercare

After the procedure, gently wash the area with soap and water. Allow 7-10 days for the lips to settle and the filler to take effect.

Why the Fanning Technique Stands Out

Unlike other techniques, the Fanning Technique reduces the risk of vascular injuries and edema. In a study, 90% of patients reported being extremely satisfied or satisfied with the outcomes.

Microdroplet Technique

lip filler techniques

The Microdroplet Technique is a precise lip filler method. It’s known for its subtle enhancements.

During a patient consultation, you and your practitioner will discuss your aesthetic goals and assess your lip shape and volume to determine the best course of action. Your practitioner injects filler in multiple locations, tailoring the treatment to your unique lip shape and volume.

This technique achieves a naturally plump appearance by distributing filler evenly. Filler is injected in a shallow layer, just beneath the skin’s surface, creating a smooth, natural-looking result.

You can get back to your normal routine quickly, with minimal disruption to your life.

To ensure proper healing, follow these aftercare instructions:

  • Avoid intense workouts for at least 24 hours
  • Stay out of direct sun exposure for at least 24 hours
  • Avoid medications like ibuprofen for at least 24 hours

Your practitioner will advise you on the best filler product for your needs.

Lower Lip Vermilion Roll

The Lower Lip Vermilion Roll technique is a specialized method designed to enhance the lower lip by creating a subtle roll or projection. This technique is rooted in a deep understanding of lip anatomy, particularly the vermilion border, which is the prominent front roll of the lip.

When reconstructing or enhancing this area, it’s crucial to maintain the natural contours and fullness of the lip. In surgical reconstructions, techniques such as the myomucosal lip island flap are used to preserve the vermilion roll and lip fullness, especially in cases of small to medium lower lip defects. This flap includes muscle and the inferior labial artery, ensuring minimal effacement of the lip projection.

For non-surgical enhancements, filler products play a significant role. When using fillers to enhance the lower lip vermilion roll, it’s essential to select products that provide the necessary volume and shape without compromising the natural lip anatomy.

Hyaluronic acid fillers are commonly used due to their versatility and ability to be molded to achieve the desired shape. During the procedure, precise injection techniques are employed to ensure that the filler is placed along the vermilion border, enhancing the roll and projection of the lower lip.

This approach helps maintain the aesthetic fullness and natural appearance of the lip, ensuring patient satisfaction and functional integrity.

Vertical Fanning Technique

lip filler techniques at Bellava MedAesthetics

The Vertical Fanning Technique is a sophisticated method for lip augmentation that involves injecting dermal fillers in a vertical and fanning pattern to achieve a natural, enhanced lip shape.

This technique, often referred to as the Russian Lip Filler Technique, focuses on injecting hyaluronic acid filler into the lips in a way that mimics the natural anatomy. The process involves inserting the needle from the base of the lips and moving upwards, concentrating more filler in the central part of the lips and less towards the edges.

This approach helps in creating a defined Cupid’s bow and a fuller, lifted middle section of the lips.

Key Points to Consider with the Vertical Fanning Technique:

  1. Patient Assessment: It’s crucial to assess the patient’s lip anatomy and overall facial structure before proceeding. This includes evaluating the need for support in surrounding tissues, such as the chin and cheeks, to ensure balanced results.
  2. Filler Placement: The filler is injected deep within the lip tissues, starting from just above the lip line and then fanned outwards. This technique ensures that the lips are shaped naturally, avoiding the ‘duck lips’ appearance.
  3. Filler Longevity: The results from the Vertical Fanning Technique can last for 6-12 months, depending on the filler used and the patient’s metabolic rate. This makes it a long-lasting solution for lip augmentation.

This method requires specialized skill and training but offers a more natural and youthful appearance, enhancing the patient’s lip shape and overall facial aesthetics.

Nick Adams

Principal

About Nick Adams

Owner/CFO/CMO Nick Adams oversees both the financial and marketing actions along with the day-to-day operations at Bellava MedAesthetics & Plastic Surgery Center. He is passionate about the aesthetics and plastic surgery industry and is committed to helping Bellava’s clients look and feel their best.

A seasoned medspa owner, Nick entered the business when he, along with his wife Dr. Donna D’Alessio, founded the highly regarded Bellava MedSpa & Pain Center in Bellava, New Jersey. At Bellava, Nick spearheaded all of the business strategies and marketing solutions. He brings to Bellava a keen understanding of what makes for an outstanding Medspa experience. First and foremost, this includes a top-notch medical and aesthetics team who place a strong emphasis on customized patient care.

Nick attended the University of New Hampshire as an undergraduate and the MBA program at NYU’s Stern School of Business where he majored in Accounting and Finance. He spent the early part of his career as CFO for prestigious New York City law firms, including Cohen Robin Stine Schumann, LLP and Fabiani Cohen & Hall, LLP. Additionally, Nick is active in fundraising for the University of Miami athletic program.

In his spare time, Nick enjoys softball, boating, and spending time with his wife and twin girls.

Read More