Do you dream of having fuller, plumber lips? Maybe this has been a lifelong desire, or maybe you've more recently noticed that your lips are looking smaller and flatter with age. In any case, dermal fillers are an option. There are a few different types to choose from, most come with only mild side effects at worst, and they tend to lend the naturally plump look most people are after. Here are the other basics you'll want to know before you call up your local cosmetic dermatologist for lip injections.

Filler Injections Are Rarely Covered by Insurance

Lip filler injections are considered a cosmetic procedure, so most health insurance plans will not cover the cost. The only exception may be if your lip was injured in an accident, leading to an abnormal appearance that you're trying to camouflage with injections. In this case, your doctor may be able to write a letter and appeal to the insurance company to cover the cost. Costs vary widely based on the economy in your area and the type of injections you choose. You may pay anywhere from $500 to $1500—so you may want to call your doctor for an estimate beforehand so you know what to expect, financially.

There Are Two Common Types of Filler Injections Used for Lips

Most lip injections go by a brand name. However, there are two different types of ingredients that are generally used:

1. Hyaluronic Acid: Fillers with this main ingredient really help add shape and definition to lips. Your body naturally produces hyaluronic acid, so the risk of a negative reaction is low. Most patients find that hyaluronic acid injections give them lips that look natural, yet firm.

2. Collagen: Fillers with collagen tend to add more volume than those with hyaluronic acid, but with the greater volume comes less definition. Usually, the collagen used is derived from bovine (cow) tissue, so while the risk is low, there is some chance of a negative reaction.

Your dermatologist will likely recommend a specific brand of filler injection for you based on your goals. You can ask whether the filler being recommended contains hyaluronic acid, collagen, or a combination of both.

Down Time Is Not Required, but You May Want to Take a Day

Your doctor will tell you that you can go straight back to work or other obligations as soon as you've had your lip filler injections. And you certainly can! However, most patients do have some mild swelling and redness for about a day after the procedure. If you are self-conscious and do not want people asking about this or noticing, then you may want to lie low for a day after your filler injections.

Now, you should have a better idea of what getting lip injections involves. Keep the advice above in mind, and go for it! Plump lips await you.

For more information about cosmetic injection procedures, talk to a cosmetic doctor in your area.