Hyaluronic Acid
Volume restoration and hydration with hyaluronic acid fillers.
- Session duration
- 20–40 minutes
- Recovery time
- Swelling and possible bruising for 2–5 days
- When results become visible
- Immediate, with the final appearance at 2 weeks
- Number of sessions
- 1 session; repeated every 8–14 months depending on the case
- Anaesthesia
- Local anaesthetic in the product or cream
What it is
Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the skin and binds water. As an injectable it is used to restore lost volume, support areas that have descended and hydrate the skin at depth.
In the lips the aim is not volume but balance: hydration, a defined border, correction of asymmetries and respect for facial proportions. The product (density, elasticity) is chosen per area.
Approved hyaluronic acid fillers are reversible: in case of an unwanted result or complication they can be dissolved with hyaluronidase — one reason the treatment must be performed in a medical setting.
Technology / material: Approved cross-linked hyaluronic acid fillers in different densities per indication. Needle or cannula depending on the case, with anaesthetic included in the product.
Who it is for
- Lips: hydration, border definition, subtle enhancement, asymmetries
- Nasolabial folds and the corners of the mouth
- Cheekbones, temples, jawline and chin
- Fine lines that do not respond to moisturising
What it can address
- Age-related volume loss
- Dehydrated lips with an unclear border
- Deep folds and downturned mouth corners
- Asymmetries and contour irregularities
What it aims to improve
- Natural volume restoration and tissue support
- Hydration and a defined, harmonious lip border
- Correction of asymmetries without altering your features
How it is performed
- 1
Discussion and examination: your concerns, anatomy, proportions, history and previous treatments. Photographic documentation.
- 2
Planning of the injection points and choice of product per area.
- 3
Cleansing and antisepsis; anaesthetic cream where needed (the products contain local anaesthetic).
- 4
Injection with a needle or cannula, gradually and with checks in the mirror.
- 5
Gentle moulding, cooling and instructions. Review at 2 weeks, when small refinements can be made.
Before, during and after treatment
Before
- Avoid blood thinners, aspirin, anti-inflammatories and alcohol for 2–3 days beforehand (if your own doctor allows), for fewer bruises.
- With a history of lip cold sores, tell us — prophylaxis is usually given.
- Do not schedule the treatment a few days before an important event.
During
- Discomfort is limited thanks to the anaesthetic; you may feel pressure.
- You check the result in the mirror as the treatment progresses.
After
- Cold packs in the first hours; sleep with your head elevated the first night.
- Avoid intense exercise, sauna, sun and facial massage for 48 hours.
- Do not press on the area; lip swelling is greatest in the first 48 hours.
- Contact us immediately in case of severe or asymmetric pain, blanching of the skin or progressive worsening.
Why Dr Maria Polykarpou
- Planning based on anatomy and proportions — not volume "packages"
- Only approved, reversible products are used
- A medical setting with the knowledge to manage complications (including hyaluronidase)
- A gradual approach with review at 2 weeks
Contraindications & important considerations
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Active infection, cold sores or inflammation in the area
- Known allergy to components of the product
- Active autoimmune disease, immunosuppression
- Clotting disorders or anticoagulant therapy (requires discussion)
- Unrealistic expectations or body dysmorphic disorder
- Final suitability is assessed by the doctor at the visit.
Frequently asked questions
Will it be obvious?
The aim is the opposite. With gradual amounts, the right product and respect for proportions, the result reads as "fresh" rather than as treatment. Overdone results almost always come from too much product in the wrong place.
How long does it last?
Depending on the area and the product, usually 8–14 months. In the lips absorption is faster because of movement.
Does it hurt?
The products contain local anaesthetic and numbing cream is applied where needed. Discomfort is brief and tolerable.
Can it be removed if I do not like it?
Yes. Hyaluronic acid can be dissolved with hyaluronidase. This is why only reversible, approved products are used — never permanent materials.
When can I attend an event?
Allow 5–7 days. Swelling settles in 2–3 days, but a bruise may take longer.
Will my skin sag if I stop?
No. As the product is absorbed the area gradually returns to its previous state, as it would with the natural passage of time.
Indications, the number of sessions and the protocol are determined individually, after medical assessment. Results vary from person to person.
Before & after
Real cases from the clinic, shown with patient consent. Results vary from person to person.
The right treatment begins with the right diagnosis.
Your first visit includes a dermatological examination, a discussion of your goals and a personalised plan, with no obligation to proceed with treatment.
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