Lip filler — everything to know before your first injection

Lip filler is one of the most talked-about beauty treatments in Estonia — and also one of the most surrounded by myths. In 2026 it has reached the mainstream — over 60% of Tallinn's aesthetic clinics offer it. In this guide we go through everything you should know before your first visit: how it works, what material is used, who it suits, who it doesn't, and how to choose an injector.

How lip filler works

Lip augmentation uses a hyaluronic acid-based gel, injected with fine needles into the lips and the surrounding tissue. Hyaluronic acid is a substance the body produces itself — in filler it is in a stabilised form that holds the volume for 6–12 months before the body naturally breaks it down.

The procedure is not “lip enlargement” in the classic sense — the goal is usually:

• A clearer lip line and better border definition;
• More even volume (correcting one lip being larger than the other);
• A hydration effect (lips look “fresher”);
• Real added volume, if desired.

Which fillers are used in Estonia

• Juvéderm Volbella / Volift (Allergan): market leader, finer texture. Suits first-timers and those after a natural result. Lasts 9–12 months.
• Restylane Kysse / Lyft (Galderma): denser material, good for long-lasting shaping. Lasts 8–12 months.
• Teosyal Kiss / RHA (Teoxane): elastically deformable, natural feel when smiling. Lasts 6–10 months.
• Neuramis / Belotero / Stylage: entry-level brands, 20–30% cheaper, the same safety profile, last slightly shorter.

Who is allowed to inject lip filler in Estonia

Lip filler is a medical procedure and may only be injected by someone with medical training — a doctor or a nurse with the relevant certificate. Before booking, check:

• The Health Board's register of activity licences — the clinic must hold a licence.
• The injector's qualification (a doctor's or nurse's diploma).
• At least one brand-training certificate (Allergan, Galderma).

Before the procedure — 7 days

• Avoid blood-thinning medication (aspirin, ibuprofen) for 5 days beforehand.
• Don't drink alcohol for 24 hours beforehand.
• If you're prone to cold sores, take an antiviral medication prophylactically.
• Come to the visit without makeup.

What happens during the procedure

1. Consultation and mapping of your wishes (15 min).
2. Numbing cream or a lidocaine injection (10 min to take effect).
3. Injection with fine needles (10–20 min).
4. A light massage to ensure evenness.
5. A cooling pack and post-procedure instructions.

After the procedure

• First 24 hours: swelling and light bruising are normal. Use an ice pack for 10 min per hour.
• 2–3 days: maximum swelling.
• 1 week: the lips start to take their final shape.
• 2 weeks: the result is final. Time for the check-up visit.
• Avoid for 48 hours: sauna, intense exercise, alcohol.
• Avoid for 1 week: facial massage, medical peels.

Dangers and risks

Hyaluronic-acid filler is one of the safest aesthetic procedures, but risks do exist:

• Vascular complications (very rare). If the material is injected into a blood vessel, skin damage can occur. An experienced injector uses a cannula (not a sharp needle) and aspirates before injecting.
• Clients with a thrombosis risk should consult their GP in advance.
• Clients prone to cold sores may get a flare-up again.

Red flags: avoid any clinic that doesn't require a pre-consultation, doesn't wear single-use gloves, doesn't show the product packaging or doesn't provide a written price list.

Who lip filler is NOT suitable for

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women.
• Patients with an active skin infection.
• Those with autoimmune conditions (consult a doctor in advance).
• Under-18s (standard practice at Estonian clinics).
• Clients with high expectations — a “Kylie Jenner” result is usually not achievable at the first visit.

Where to next

• Lip filler in Estonia 2026 — prices and clinics
• How to choose an aesthetic clinic
• All lip filler providers in Estonia — in Tallinn
• The full aesthetic clinic directory

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