The first thing I say in most filler consultations is: “You probably need less than you think.”
This surprises people. They’ve seen the Instagram faces—the pillow lips and chipmunk cheeks—and they assume that’s just what filler does. It’s not. That’s what too much filler does, usually placed by someone chasing volume instead of balance.
Good filler work is invisible. You notice the person looks great. You don’t notice the filler.
The Conversation We Have First
Before I touch a syringe, I want to understand what you’re actually seeing in the mirror.
“I look tired” is different from “I want bigger lips.” The first one might be about under-eye hollows, or lost cheek volume, or something that isn’t even a filler issue. The second one is straightforward—but even then, I want to know what “bigger” means to you.
I’ll ask you to show me photos of lips you like. Not because I’m going to copy them exactly, but because it tells me your aesthetic. Are you drawn to natural fullness or more dramatic shapes? That matters more than the number of syringes.
Why I Usually Start Small
Here’s the thing about filler: you can always add more. You can’t easily take it away.
Yes, hyaluronic acid fillers can technically be dissolved. But that’s a separate appointment, more cost, and an imperfect process. It’s so much better to just get it right the first time by being conservative.
For lips especially, I’d rather have you come back in two weeks saying “I love it but could we add a little more?” than leave my chair worried you went too far.
Most first-time lip patients need one syringe or less. If someone tells you that you need two syringes on your first visit, get a second opinion.
The Areas People Overlook
Everyone thinks about lips and cheeks. But some of the most impactful filler work happens in places you might not expect:
Temples. When we lose volume here, it makes the whole face look more skeletal. A little filler in the temples can take years off your appearance without anyone knowing why you look different.
Chin. A weak chin throws off facial proportions. Subtle chin filler can balance your profile in a way that looks like you just… have a nicer chin. Nobody thinks “filler.”
Jawline. Not dramatic contouring—just a little definition where things have started to soften. It’s about restoring structure, not creating something new.
What I Won’t Do
I’ll say no to things that won’t serve you well.
If you want lips that are too big for your face, I’ll tell you why I think that’s a mistake. If you’re trying to look like someone else instead of a refreshed version of yourself, we should talk about that.
This isn’t me being difficult. It’s me protecting both of us. You don’t want to regret your results, and I don’t want my work walking around looking overdone.
The best referrals I get are from patients whose friends say “who does your lips?” not “oh my god, what did you do to your face?”
The Swelling Situation
Filler swells. Especially lip filler. For the first 48-72 hours, you will look more filled than your final result.
This freaks people out. I get texts with photos saying “is this normal??” Yes. It’s normal. The morning after lip filler is not the time to evaluate your results.
Give it two weeks. That’s when the filler has settled, the swelling is completely gone, and you’re seeing the real outcome. If you don’t like it then, we talk. But don’t panic on day two.
How Long Does It Actually Last?
The honest answer: it depends on your body, the area, and how much we put in.
Lips metabolize filler faster because they move constantly. Expect 6-9 months. Cheeks last longer—often over a year. Under-eyes can last 18+ months because there’s almost no movement there.
I’ve noticed that patients who come regularly tend to need less product over time. The filler builds on itself. So your first year might require more maintenance than year three.
The Cost Question
Filler is expensive. A syringe typically runs $600-800 depending on the product.
I won’t pretend otherwise or try to upsell you into multiple syringes you don’t need. My goal is to help you look great with the minimum amount of product required—which, conveniently, also costs you less.
If budget is a concern, let’s prioritize. One syringe in the right place beats three syringes scattered everywhere.
Curious whether filler is right for what you’re seeing in the mirror? Book a free consultation and let’s talk it through. No pressure, no upsell—just an honest conversation about what would actually help.
Text or call: 480-933-2328