Lip fillers are perceived as painful. On average, clients give a treatment a pain score of 3-4 (scale 1-10). There are various anesthetic options and treatment techniques. Read all the information below and find a suitable clinic near you.

Are lip fillers painful?

Many people considering cosmetic filler treatments dread the pain. This isn't always the case. Some treatments are painless, while others take just seconds. Some filler treatments can be painful. Most people find lip fillers somewhat sensitive. There are various treatment techniques, some more sensitive than others. There are also ways to numb the area. Is lip filler surgery painful? This article provides tips and tricks for dealing with painful procedures!

Do lip fillers hurt?

Lip fillers pain

In general, a lip filler treatment is considered sensitive. However, the level of discomfort varies greatly per treatment. Important factors include the injection technique used, the type of anesthesia, the skill of the doctor, and the client’s personal pain threshold. The following lip filler treatment techniques are common:

Lip fillers with needle, standard technique

With the standard technique (also called the "normal technique" or "linear technique"), the lips are filled using a needle. An ultra-thin needle (typically 30 gauge, much thinner than a vaccination needle) is inserted into the lip tissue. With each injection, the filler is distributed in small amounts across the desired areas.

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Russian technique (Russian technique)

With the Russian Technique, the lips are filled with many small injections starting from the lip edge. The Russian technique is more painful because the lip line is more sensitive than the lip red. Multiple injections are also required. The Russian technique can optimize the shape of the lips. For example, 'flat lips' and 'heart-shape lips' are trends that can be better achieved with the Russian technique.

Lip augmentation with a cannula

Lips can also be filled with a cannula. A small hole is made in the corners of the mouth through which the blunt cannula can be inserted. The cannula then fills the entire lip with a retracting motion. This treatment is safe, but slightly less precise than lip fillers with a needle.

Lip filler anesthesia

There are several methods to numb the lips before a treatment. This can be done with Emla cream, a “dental anesthetic,” or with anesthesia mixed into the filler itself. Each method has its own characteristics and benefits.

Emla cream lip filler

EMLA is a cream that numbs the skin. It is often used for lip treatments. With EMLA, the needle prick is felt less. The cream must be applied at least 30 minutes before treatment. It works fairly well, but not as effectively as a dental anesthetic.

Dental anesthetic for lip filler

A “dental anesthetic” involves 2 small injections. Using an ultra-thin needle, the lips are completely numbed for several hours. The active ingredient is lidocaine. This method provides the least painful lip treatment.

Lip filler with anesthesia

Many fillers already contain lidocaine mixed in. Brands such as Belotero, Juvéderm, and Restylane commonly include it. The advantage is that you don’t need to wait 30 minutes (like with EMLA cream) or receive an extra injection (like with a dental anesthetic). The downside is that the anesthetic takes a few seconds to work, and the syringe contains a fraction less filler since part of the content is lidocaine.

Do fillers hurt?

For most filler treatments, the pain level is similar to lip fillers. However, areas such as tear troughs, jawline, or chin fillers are generally considered less painful. You can always discuss anesthesia options with your doctor.

How long does pain last after lip filler?

After treatment, the lips may hurt due to swelling or peeling skin. This creates tension in the lips. It is recommended to cool the area regularly (with a cloth between the ice pack and skin). Applying Vaseline in the first few days also helps. All discomfort should disappear within 2 weeks. If not, contact your treating doctor.
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Read Reviews:

Gemma is the most wonderful person, fabulous and professional and my laser is working really well. She makes me feel comfortable and relaxed and it’s totally pain free! Amazing! Thank you!
25 September 2025 11:11
Shumaila's Colchester branch is completely outstanding. Every aspect meets expectation. I have the privilege of working with Bushra for laser hair removal. She is so knowledgeable, caring and cautious with everything she does. She has made a painful experience easy through her kind words, patience and caring nature. I am very grateful for her encouragement... Show more »
Shumaila's Colchester branch is completely outstanding. Every aspect meets expectation. I have the privilege of working with Bushra for laser hair removal. She is so knowledgeable, caring and cautious with everything she does.

She has made a painful experience easy through her kind words, patience and caring nature. I am very grateful for her encouragement and care.

All staff are so lovely and welcoming, you can tell they really care about each and every client with a warm and professional atmosphere. Show less »
Visited Sebastian Rose for Botox. I’m very pleased with the results. Rachel is professional, knowledgeable and made me feel completely at ease. The procedure was quick and painless. My crows feet are noticeably smoother however I still look natural. If your thinking of a treatment then I would totally recommend Rachel.
23 September 2025 19:07

Frequently Asked Questions about the Pain of Lip Fillers

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