Get Natural - Looking lips with Lip Filler in NYC by Dr. Debra Jaliman, specializing in the Microdroplet Technique
Dr. Jaliman, with over 25 years of knowledge and experience, specializes in lip filler injections, also known as lip augmentations, for women of all ages. With a deep understanding of facial anatomy, she employs a microdroplet injection technique into the body of the lip, using filler to ensure precise and natural-looking lips.
Her approach is to use a tiny needle with her advanced techniques to inject small amounts of the material to create the perfect pout. She is a precision injector who uses her artistry and expertise with hyaluronic acid gel fillers to plump the cupid bow and the lateral part of the lip to attain the best result and give the lip definition. She will perfect your lip shape or just balance it and do lip enhancement by adding lip volume to specific areas of the lip.
Set up an in-person consultation appointment for an assessment to discuss lip filler injections with Dr. Jaliman at her NYC, Upper East Side dermatology practice. You can schedule an appointment by calling our office at or by filling out our form here.
What is lip filler?
Lip filler is a cosmetic injectable used to enhance the volume, shape and definition of the lips. Most lip fillers are made of Hyaluronic acid, which is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps retain moisture and adds plumpness.
- Increase lip volume
- Enhance lip shape
- Improve lip definition
- Smooth lip lines
- Correct Asymmetry
- Restore lost lip volume
What are lip fillers made of?
Most lip fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance naturally found in the body that helps retain moisture and volume.
Am I a good candidate?
If you have naturally thin lips and want more volume, fillers can enhance the beauty, shape and structure. If you’ve lost volume due to aging, fillers can restore a youthful plumpness.
Find out if you are a good candidate, discuss your concerns and needs, ask any questions you may have, including the cost, and discuss the benefits and potential risks with a professional. She will go over your medical history, create a personalized treatment plan, and provide detailed information about safety and alternative treatment options, like the Botox lip flip. You will have confidence in having the lip enhancement procedure done by an injector who makes aesthetics and your health her top priority and focus. Her goal is to exceed your expectations. To document your transformation, her team will capture photos before and after, allowing you to witness the remarkable results firsthand. Imagine a way to produce dramatic results without plastic surgery — small needles, an hour of your time, and a physician with an artistic hand and great attention to detail.
Lip Filler Brands
Dr. Jaliman exclusively utilizes FDA-approved hyaluronic acid gel filler products.
Your choice includes:
- Restylane® Silk
- Restylane® Kysse
- JUVÉDERM® Ultra XC
These products have been thoroughly tested and proven to be both safe and effective. She avoids the use of silicone or collagen injections for lip enhancement, as her priority is a natural-looking outcome.
Restylane and Juvederm are commonly used hylauronic gel fillers for the lips. They contain lidocaine to numb the area. These are not permanent fillers and can be dissolved if necessary. These are the newest technology for lips.
Are there things to avoid before the consultation and treatment?
Dr. Jaliman recommends avoiding vitamin E, aspirin, ibuprofen, fish oil, and alcohol for a week prior to the treatment session. This precaution helps to minimize bleeding and bruising. Pre-procedure instructions and aftercare information will be provided to ensure optimal results.
What to Expect During your Lip Filler Treatment
The procedure starts with a brief consultation to discuss your goals and expectations. Dr. Jaliman will assess your lips and determine the best approach. The patient and doctor will decide whether to use a half syringe or full syringe based on the desired level of enhancement, whether subtle or more dramatic.
A topical numbing cream will be applied to your lips to minimize discomfort during the procedure for 20 minutes.
The filler will be injected into strategic areas of your lips using a fine needle. You may feel a slight pinch or pressure during this process. A Zimmer Chiller will be used to cool the area and minimize discomfort during the procedure.
Dr. Jaliman will carefully sculpt and shape your lips to achieve the desired volume and symmetry. Pressure will be applied to reduce bruising and ice packs will be applied to minimize swelling.
How long does the procedure take?
It takes approximately 30-45 minutes including the numbing time.
How much do lip fillers cost?
A syringe of lip filler costs $950. A 1/2 syringe costs $500.
Why Trust Dr. Jaliman for Lip Injections?
With over 25 years of experience treating patients in New York City, Dr. Jaliman is renowned for her exceptional skill and artistic eye. She is one of the few practitioners who uses a specialized microdroplet technique for lip enhancement, allowing her to create fuller, beautifully balanced lips that still look completely natural.
Whether you're looking for a subtle boost or a more noticeable plump, Dr. Jaliman customizes each treatment to fit your unique facial features—particularly how your lips relate to your nose and overall structure. She takes her time with every patient, ensuring a thoughtful, personalized approach and consistently stunning results.
Known for treating high-profile clients and celebrities, Dr. Jaliman brings the same level of care and attention to every patient. She's also experienced in treating more complex cases, such as lip scarring.
One of the standout benefits of her practice is the ability to use hyaluronic acid fillers in half-syringe increments. This allows you to gradually enhance your lips—and pay only for what you need.
The result? Soft, natural-looking lips that enhance your features without the "overdone" look. In fact, your new look will be so seamless, only you and your dermatologist will know you’ve had anything done.
Want to learn more? Read Dr. Jaliman’s glowing reviews on Google, visit her NYC office, or check out her book Skin Rules. Get ready for compliments—your friends, family, and everyone else will love your new lips!
Frequently Asked Questions about Lip Filler
Will my lips feel hard or unnatural?
No, when done correctly they should feel soft and natural. Some initial firmness may be due to swelling.
Is a half-syringe of lip filler worth it?
A half syringe provides subtle enhancement, adding volume without looking like you have had filler. If you’re unsure how much volume you want, starting conservatively allows for gradual enhancement.
Does getting lip fillers hurt?
Most fillers contain lidocaine to minimize discomfort. A staff member will apply a topical numbing cream to numb the area 20 minutes prior to the treatment session. This will ensure that the lip rejuvenation procedure is performed comfortably and in a pain-free manner. In addition, a Zimmer Chiller is also used during the lip augmentation procedure to cool the affected area and further reduce any discomfort.
How much swelling should I expect?
Pressure is applied to the area to prevent any potential bleeding after the injections with the needles and the completion of the treatment session. This is followed by a 5-minute application of an ice pack to reduce swelling. Swelling is normal for the first 24 to 48 hours with the most noticeable swelling on day 2. Prednisone can be given to minimize swelling
What should I avoid after getting lip fillers?
Avoid alcohol, excessive salt, strenuous exercise, and excessive lip pressure (like kissing or using a straw) for 24–48 hours to minimize swelling and bruising.
How long do lip fillers last?
Most patients notice that the plumpness from the lip filler lasts about 6 to 8 months. To maintain consistent results, we sometimes add just half a syringe of filler instead of rejecting the entire lip. Those who prefer more plumpness and a fuller lip may choose to get a full syringe injected each time.
Is there recovery downtime after lip filler treatment?
Most patients will experience some swelling after lip injections. To help minimize this, prednisone tablets can be taken immediately after the procedure. We have these prednisone pills available in our office. As part of aftercare, we recommend avoiding strenuous activities and exercise immediately after treatment. To reduce swelling, applying ice to the area is also helpful for a smoother recovery.
Are there side effects?
There can be slight redness, irritation, or inflammation, and some tenderness. Sometimes there can be bruising and, usually, some swelling. Lips are very sensitive. This can usually be covered by makeup. There is usually minimal recovery time and little reaction. We will provide you with aftercare skincare instructions. It's best if you avoid the application of fragrance, essential oils, and harsh chemicals like acids right after the procedure. Micellar water is gentle and can safely be used. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face and lips. Avoid direct sun exposure and use lip balm with SPF. Avoid hot and spicy foods immediately afterward, as these can increase the swelling of your lips. Also, avoid very hot foods.
How natural will my lips look?
Results depend on the injector’s technique and the amount of filler used. A skilled injector like Dr. Debra Jaliman can create subtle, natural-looking lips rather than an overfilled appearance.
Can lip filler be reversed with hyaluronidase if I'm not happy with the results?
Most people like the fullness and increased size of their new lips and smile. It also enhances their eyes. Occasionally, someone wants the filler removed. Lip augmentations can be reversed with hyaluronidase solution, an enzyme that breaks down the filler substance, which is made of hyaluronic acid. If you have lumps or bumps from incorrectly placed lip filler, hyaluronidase can help smooth and correct the area. A numbing cream can be used before these injections which are done with tiny needles.
Does Dr. Jaliman utilize the Russian lip technique?
Yes, she does do this technique along with many others, which is a natural lip technique enhancing the Cupid's bow. The filler is placed vertically starting from the edge of the lip in small amounts. It creates a lifted profile instead of a protruding one. In one session, the natural contour of the lip can be defined using tiny needles.
Can you have this treatment during dental work, and how does it affect recovery?
While you are having work done on your teeth, jawline, or gums, it is best that you wait two weeks before having a Juvederm injection as there is a high probability of infection. It is also best that you check with your dental surgeon as to the timing.
Can I still get lip fillers if I have cold sores?
It is best to avoid this treatment if you have active cold sores. You'll be prescribed oral antiviral medication, and once treated you can typically have the procedure within one to two weeks. This is why a thorough medical history with a board-certified dermatologist is so important.
Can you use fat to increase lip volume and make your lips look fuller?
Fat can be used, but this material isn't as subtle for lip augmentations as hylauronic lip fillers. A small amount of filler can be used to subtly enhance the lips without a dramatic change.
Do men get lip enhancement treatment?
Some men do get lip augmentations. The trend is growing for lip enhancement treatments. Since these are minimally invasive procedures, they can enhance facial balance and reduce fine lines and boost self-confidence in men who are seeking subtle improvements without Plastic Surgery.
Is it possible to have lip lines filled above my lips at the same time as a lip augmentation procedure?
The muscles and tissues above the lips when contracting can also cause vertical lip lines. These can be filled with hylauronic acid. Wrinkles above the lip or around the mouth can be treated at the same time. The number of syringes required may vary depending on the type of hyaluronic acid filler used. If Restylane Silk is utilized, it is possible to use the same syringe for both the lip lines and lip filling. However, with a thicker filler, it may be necessary to use additional syringes. Many women opt to fill these "smokers' lines" as they perceive them to be aging and find that lipstick can settle into the lines. These lines are typically caused by repetitive pursing of the lips, the frequent use of a straw, or smoking.
Can I have Botox injections into my lips instead of hyaluronic acid filler for the procedure?
Yes. There is a technique called the lip flip. After numbing cream is applied, Botox is injected into the top lip. This technique relaxes your top lip muscle, giving you the appearance of a fuller lip without actually adding more volume.
Can lip asymmetry be corrected using a specific technique?
Sometimes, individuals come because their natural lips are asymmetric, or they have had filler material injected at a clinic, and the doctor who did the lip filler treatment did not put it in the proper location and caused lumps. These are good candidates for us to change by placing the filler in the precise location so that lip symmetry can be attained. These are all signs of a treatment gone wrong.
Does Lip Volume Decrease as You Age Due to Collagen Loss?
The lips unfortunately get thinner as you age, and the lips do lose volume. This can be corrected with lip filler. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is the most popular choice. Injected into the lips at the perfect injection site makes a real difference as it increases the volume, restores volume loss, and improves the lip border. Skilled injectors can add filler to the corners of the mouth as well to lift the sides of the mouth and give an overall more youthful impression.
However, determining who is the best candidate for lip augmentation procedures involves looking at multiple factors. It is important for doctors to look at the features of each face, cheeks, and chin, the degree of volume loss, and the patients' age. It is also important to discuss the aesthetic goals with the patient to determine how full they want their lips to be and their expectations.
Can I have cosmetic lip treatment safely while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No studies have been done to evaluate their safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so there really is limited information. It is best to wait until afterward for any lip augmentations.
Are there other alternatives or options available?
If you do not want lip injections, there are other ways to get a fuller pout. Some women are very content with this temporary option, which is a lip plumper, and give them good reviews. They buy over-the-counter lip plumpers. These are lip glosses that temporarily make your lips appear fuller. Some even add color to the lips as well. They contain ingredients like hyaluronic acid and squalane to hydrate the lips. They also may contain peptides to stimulate collagen production. Some have antioxidants like vitamin E. Other products may contain something to irritate the skin of the lips to cause them to swell and become inflamed. These ingredients include cinnamon, cayenne, peppermint, capsicum resin, menthol and also bee venom (don't use it if you are allergic to bees). It's important to check the ingredient list carefully. Some of these ingredients can make lips dry or be irritating and cause allergic reactions, so I do not recommend them to people with sensitive types of skin.
Can acne scars be treated with the same fillers?
Acne scars can often be filled with the same hyaluronic acid-based fillers as used for lip fillers. To smooth out depressions and improve the appearance of acne scars, hyaluronic acid can be injected below the surface of the skin to lift it. These injections are often used with other modalities for acne scar treatment, like the Fraxel laser.
Is this procedure covered by insurance?
Lip contouring is a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by insurance. The price and process will be discussed in detail, so you will know before your treatment what the cost will be.
So what are you waiting for? Appointments can be made by calling us at to schedule your appointment to get beautiful lips today or for any skin concerns! Look for the logo of the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) and the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) when choosing your dermatologist.