Most patients report minimal and manageable discomfort during lip filler injections. It's not completely painless, but it's often described as a quick pinch or sting, slight pressure, and mild soreness afterward, rather than severe or unbearable pain. Many patients find the results to be well worth the brief discomfort.

Why do people get lip fillers?

People opt for lip fillers for various reasons, including desiring more definition, adding volume, correcting asymmetry, smoothing out fine lines around the mouth, or simply seeking a subtle refresh to boost confidence.

How does Beauty Energy Exchange minimize discomfort during lip filler treatments?

At BEE Aesthetics, discomfort is minimized through several methods: applying a powerful topical numbing cream for 15-20 minutes prior, utilizing a gentle and precise injection technique, and using ice therapy before and after the injections to reduce swelling and sensation.

How should I prepare before my lip filler appointment to minimize bruising?

To minimize bruising and optimize comfort, it's recommended to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen / NSAIDs (like Advil, Motrin, Aleve), fish oil / omega-3 supplements, turmeric, vitamin E, ginkgo biloba, and garlic supplements for at least 3–5 days before treatment. Also, avoid alcohol for at least 48 hours prior. These can thin the blood and increase the likelihood of bruising or swelling. Staying well-hydrated is also helpful.

What should I expect during a lip filler appointment?

The appointment typically involves a consultation to discuss your goals, taking before photos, application of topical numbing cream (given time to work), a series of small injections with careful attention to symmetry and volume, and a review of personalized aftercare instructions. The entire process usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

What should I expect after getting lip fillers?

After the treatment, it's normal to experience slight swelling or puffiness (often peaking around 48 hours), mild tenderness when touching the lips, and occasional light bruising. Temporary lumps or firmness and mild asymmetry in the first few days are also normal as the filler settles. Itchiness or tightness can also occur. These effects are generally short-lived. Final results are best assessed at 2 weeks once swelling has resolved.

Will my lips look overdone or unnatural after fillers?

At Beauty Energy Exchange, the specialization is in natural, balanced enhancements that complement your existing features, rather than overwhelming them. The goal is to achieve results that look subtle and authentic, not overdone.

What if I don’t like the result of my lip fillers?

Hyaluronic acid-based lip fillers are reversible. If you are truly unhappy with the results, the filler can be safely dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase.

How do I book an appointment with Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness?

You can book an appointment by contacting us here [assuming 'here' links to a contact page in the actual blog post] or by calling (858) 330-2477. We’ll get you on the schedule and answer any questions you may have.

Do Lip Fillers Hurt? What San Diego Patients Say | BEE — Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness

Hi, I’m Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM and the proud owner of Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness here in Point Loma, San Diego. One of the most common questions I hear from first-time patients interested in lip fillers is:

"Does it hurt?"

It's such a relatable concern. After all, anything involving needles near your face deserves some thought! So let’s dive in—I’ll walk you through what the experience is really like, what you can expect during treatment, and what my patients have said about their experiences.

Understanding Lip Fillers

What Are Lip Fillers, Really?

Lip fillers are injectable gels made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in your skin that helps keep things plump and hydrated. At BEE Aesthetics and Wellness, we use only the highest-quality FDA-approved fillers for safe, beautiful, and natural-looking results.

Why People Get Lip Fillers

People get lip fillers for all kinds of reasons—some want a more defined cupid’s bow, others want to add volume, correct asymmetry, or smooth out fine lines. And some just want a little refresh to feel more confident in their own skin. If you’re exploring lip fillers for the first time, you're in the right place.

So, Do Lip Fillers Hurt?

Let’s Talk About the Sensation

Here’s the honest truth:
We offer the option of numbing cream or a dental block, and the filler itself contains lidocaine to keep you comfortable.

Is it completely painless? No—but most clients say it’s quick, very manageable, and not nearly as bad as they expected. You’ll feel a few pinches, but nothing scary or unbearable.

You might feel:

A quick pinch or sting during the injection
Slight pressure as the filler is placed

It’s not the kind of pain that makes you wince—it’s more like a “Hey, I know something’s happening” moment.

What My San Diego Patients Are Saying

I always appreciate the feedback from our clients, and here are some real sentiments they’ve shared:

“Way easier than I expected.”
“The numbing cream worked like magic—I barely felt a thing.”
“Honestly, I was more nervous than I needed to be. Nyree talked me through the whole thing.”

Every person is different, of course, but nearly all of them agree: the results are worth it.

Read more from our community in Lip Filler Before and After Transformations.

How We Minimize Discomfort for lip fillers

How We Minimize Discomfort at BEE Aesthetics

1. Topical Numbing Cream

We always start with a powerful topical anesthetic that sits on the lips for about 15–20 minutes. This numbs the area thoroughly before we begin the injections.

2. Gentle Technique

As a board-certified Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Midwife, I’ve been trained in precision and gentle care. My injection technique is thoughtful, slow, and always tailored to your unique anatomy.

3. Ice Therapy

Cold packs before and after can help reduce swelling and numb any lingering sensation.

Before Your Appointment: How to Prepare

Avoid These to Minimize Bruising

To keep things smooth and comfortable, we recommend avoiding the following for at least 3–5 days before your appointment:

Aspirin
Ibuprofen / NSAIDs (like Advil, Motrin, Aleve)
Fish oil / omega-3 supplements
Turmeric
Vitamin E
Ginkgo biloba
Garlic supplements
Alcohol (avoid for at least 48 hours prior)

These can thin your blood and increase your risk of bruising or swelling. If you're on any prescribed blood thinners, be sure to let us know in advance.

💛 Staying well-hydrated and gently avoiding these can help you heal faster and look your best!

Check out our first-timer’s checklist for more.

During Your Appointment: What to Expect

Step-by-Step Process

Consultation: We discuss your goals and what’s realistic for your facial anatomy.
Photos: We take before pictures to document your journey.
Numbing: Topical cream is applied, and we give it time to work.
Injections: I’ll make a series of small injections, checking symmetry and volume as we go.
Aftercare Review: You’ll receive a personalized guide to healing and post-filler care.

Time Commitment

The whole appointment takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Aftercare: Healing Without the Hype

What to Expect After Lip Filler 💋

Swelling or puffiness – usually peaks around 48 hours, then gradually improves
Mild tenderness when touching the lips
Bruising – varies by person, may last a few days
Lumps or firmness – can be felt temporarily as filler settles
Asymmetry in the first few days – normal during healing and swelling
Itchiness or tightness – mild and temporary

These are all normal and short-lived. Most clients return to their usual day immediately after treatment.

💡 Pro tip: Final results are best assessed at 2 weeks, once swelling has resolved and the filler has fully settled.

Quick Recovery Tips 💋

Ice your lips in 10-minute intervals (on/off) for the first 1–2 days
Stay hydrated—good hydration supports healing
Avoid:

Heavy makeup around the lips for 24 hours
Saunas, steam rooms, and hot yoga for 48 hours
Kissing (yes, really!) for at least 24–48 hours
Straws, smoking, or excessive lip movement for 24 hours
Intense workouts for 24 hours to minimize swelling and bruising

Sleep slightly elevated to help reduce puffiness overnight
Skip alcohol and salty foods for the first day or two—both can worsen swelling

✨ Swelling and minor asymmetry are normal during the first few days. You’ll see the best results once everything settles—usually around the 2-week mark!

Want to avoid common missteps? Read How to Avoid Overfilled Lips.

FAQs: Lip Fillers at BEE Aesthetics and Wellness

1. How long do lip fillers last?
On average, 6 to 12 months depending on your metabolism and the filler used.

2. Will my lips look overdone or unnatural?
Not on my watch! I specialize in natural, balanced enhancements that complement your features—not overwhelm them.

3. What if I don’t like the result?
Hyaluronic acid fillers are reversible. If you're truly unhappy, we can dissolve them safely.

4. Can I go back to work after getting lip fillers?
Yes! Many clients return to work or daily life immediately after, though you might want to avoid big events for 24–48 hours just in case of swelling.

5. How do I book an appointment with you?
Contact us here or call (858) 330-2477. We’ll get you on the schedule and answer any questions you may have.

Are Lip Fillers Worth It? Here’s What My Clients Say

For many of my clients, lip fillers in San Diego aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re about confidence, ownership of their beauty, and feeling more aligned with how they want to present themselves to the world.

Here’s what they’ve told me post-treatment:

“I finally love my smile.”
“I feel like I look how I’ve always felt inside.”
“It’s subtle but made such a difference in how I show up at work and socially.”

A Final Word from Me, Nyree

I believe in natural, personalized results that enhance what’s already beautiful about you. At Beauty Energy Exchange, we’re all about subtle, soulful upgrades—never overdone, never fake. Just the most confident, refreshed version of YOU.

If you’ve been curious about lip fillers and worried about pain, I want to reassure you: you’re not alone in wondering, and you’re not wrong for asking. Let’s talk it through together.

We’ll guide you every step of the way and make sure the experience feels supportive, safe, and empowering.

Schedule a consultation at Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness today!

Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness

1050 Rosecrans St, Suite 8
San Diego, CA 92106
https://www.beautyenergyexchange.com

Do Lip Fillers Hurt? What San Diego Patients Are Saying