Cosmetic Treatment 411

Anything you’ve been wondering?
We’ve got you covered. 

How long do fillers last?

The million dollar question. Fillers last different lengths of time for different people for different reasons. Emerging studies also show that fillers may last much longer than we previously thought was possible. The BEST results typically last about 6 months to a year.

This doesn’t mean your fillers will completely metabolize within this amount of time. It varies from person to person, with both internal and external factors impacting the break down process. Some people will have most of their fillers still intact, and others may have very little of their fillers at this point.

In conclusion, I recommend coming in for a follow-up at around 6-8 months after your initial dose. We can either decide to add a little touch up or let your lips breathe. Regardless, it’s best to have us assess together!

What can I expect after lip fillers? 

You can expect some bruising, swelling, a little tenderness and maybe even some dryness. Bruising typically lasts between seven days and two weeks. It all depends on your body's natural healing abilities. Swelling is at its worst for the first few days, but residual swelling can hang around for a full two weeks. From then it takes a full two weeks for the fillers to completely settle and heal. 

Are bumps normal after lip fillers? 

During the first two weeks, lumps, bumps or minor inconsistencies can be considered normal. These will typically settle on their own during the healing process. If a few small bumps remain present, I recommend coming back in to see me for a follow up and so we can address them.

What’s the difference between
botox and fillers?

Botox is essentially a medication used to slow down muscle movements in the face. These reduce the intensity of our facial expressions reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. This will also prevent future wrinkles if started early enough! 

Fillers are used to add volume to areas of the face where volume has been lost. Fillers can be used to smooth out fine lines and wrinkles as well through adding support and volume to the skin. 

How much tox do I need? What should I budget for?

Each person has different needs based on muscle strength. Dosing is not based on the number of lines or how deep lines are, of course— more lines are a strong indicator that your muscles might be stronger or more active. Stronger muscles typically need more tox. BUT everyone is so different and there are other variables that help us determine whether we need higher or lower dosing. To help give estimates, see our Tox Dosing Guide at the bottom of this page.

How long does tox last?

For the average person receiving and average dose, we can expect to see about 3-5 months out of our tox treatment. However, dose does impact duration. Lower dosing for more natural results will wear off faster than a higher dose for tighter/smoother looking results.

  • High dose = greater longevity

  • Low dose = shorter longevity

How soon can I add more fillers to my lips?

After your initial treatment, you can add fillers as soon as 2 weeks after.

Will I bruise?

Probably.... lol. But that’s OKAY. The lips are a sensitive area and we are using needles even if they’re tiny. If you bruise easily, you may see some bigger bruises. Of course not everyone loves the idea of having bruises on their lips, however they heal in a short amount of time. Think of it like a little beauty mark. ;) Kudos to the lucky few who do not bruise - we’re jealous of you.

What if I don’t like my fillers?

What kind of question..... Just kidding. We hope you love your fillers, but if you don’t we will always understand. Let us know! Tell us what you don’t like, what you want different, what needs to change. Either we can work together to correct the issue or fillers can be completely dissolved using a reversal agent known as hyaluronidase and your lips can and will go back to their natural state. Work with us babyyyy!

What if I don’t like my tox?

Tox is temporary. It will wear off completely within a few short months. We cannot do anything to immediately cause your tox to “go away”, but it will not last long. Come see us! Often there are adjustments that can be made to correct your tox 2 weeks after your initial treatment.

Can I get injections while pregnant or breastfeeding?

Unfortunately, no. :( I know, it’s frustrating. Especially postpartum where it is already a trying time. We want you to feel beautiful inside and out and we know how important it is to get back to a sense of normalcy. However, this one we need to just wait out.

We just don’t know enough information about these topics as they cannot be studied. We want what is best for you and your little one. Whenever you finish breastfeeding, we’ll be just as excited as you are to get you back into your injectable routine.

(P.S. if you’re looking at this question, I assume you’re either trying, pregnant, or breastfeeding so GOOD LUCK OR CONGRATS!)

What is PRF?

PRF (Platelet-rich fibrins) is a natural way to add volume and restore collagen. PRF is a mix of your platelets, leukocytes, and fibrin which contain growth factors that promote healing. AKA all natural— all you.

Let’s bring some Retrograde Aesthetics Values into the spotlight:

Transparency

At Retrograde Aesthetics, we set the sales aside and are completely up front about the process. You will always have all the information you need and want before we make any decisions.

Honor

We value honor coming from both you (the client) and me (your injector). That means I will always do only that which will benefit you and I will stick to my words. And if you (the client) ever have any concerns or feel your goals are not being met, we will do our best to honor you and get you there. 

With that being said, in the reverse - I hope to have a mutually respectful relationship where you can honor me as a human, too. <3

Authenticity

Just be yourself, and I’ll be me. There are no facades over here. We’re human. We’re not perfect. We just do our best to be our best, and understand that we may be different but regardless of our differences, it is so easy to accept and love when you feel authenticity coming your way.

Acceptance

Everyone, every personality, every human is welcome and safe at Retrograde. Judgment free zone in overdrive. 

FUN!

Let loose. Have fun. Inside of retrograde, outside of retrograde. Live life like it’s a party all the time. These disco balls are here for a reason, baby. *kisses*

Tox Dosing Guide

UNITS AREA PRICE
8-15 Frontalis // forehead $96-$180
9-20 Glabella // “11 lines” // “frown lines” $108-$204
8-20 "Crow's Feet // "smile lines" $96-$204
6-8 Nasalis // “bunny lines” $72-$96
6-8 Nasal flare tox // Nasalis // Nostrils $72-$96
5 Nasal tip lift $60
4-10 Lip flip // “smoker lines” // gummy smile tox $48-$120
6-10 DAO’s // “frownies” // “upside down smile” $72-$120
5-10 Chin tox // “Orange Peel” // submental crease reduction $60-$120
4-6 Lower lip flip // “pouty lip” $48-$72
20-40 Masseter tox // TMJ relief // facial slimming $240-$480
6-10 Brow Lift // “hooded eye lift” $72-$120
10-20 Platysmal band tox // “nefertiti neck lift” // Tox for Jowls $120-$240
50-100 Sweat tox // armpits // hands // feet $600-$1000*
50-100 TRAP tox $600-$1000*
8-10 Pore tox // pore reduction tox $96-$120
30-100 Migraine Tox $360-$1000*

THINGS TO KNOW:

  • Tox dosing is based off of muscle STRENGTH— not based on lines or wrinkles.

  • Lower dosing is for weaker muscles, higher dosing is for stronger muscles.

  • Dose = duration— weaker muscles may still need higher doses for longevity.

**Your doses could be outside of these guidelines**

  • Only you and your injector will be able to determine the specific needs for you.