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Are these filler bumps on my lips? Or something else?
Lip fillers have become a go-to treatment in the world of aesthetic medicine, offering a way to achieve fuller, more defined lips. But if you’ve noticed small, white bumps on your lips after a filler procedure, you’re not alone. These bumps are often known as Fordyce spots, a common but often misunderstood skin condition.
What are Fordyce Spots?
First identified by Dr. John Addison Fordyce in 1896, Fordyce spots are enlarged, slightly raised sebaceous (oil) glands that typically appear in hairless areas of the skin. While they can show up on various parts of the body, they’re most commonly found on the lips or vermilion border. Though entirely natural and harmless, Fordyce spots can sometimes cause cosmetic concerns, particularly when they become more visible.
Who Do Fordyce Spots Affect?
Fordyce spots can affect anyone, though they usually don’t appear until puberty or adulthood, when hormonal changes can make them more noticeable. While men are about twice as likely to develop these spots compared to women, they are incredibly common, with 70-80% of adults having them.
Symptoms and Causes
Fordyce spots appear as small bumps, ranging in color from white, yellow, or pale red to skin-colored. They can show up as single spots or clusters, sometimes numbering up to 50 or more. Typically, they measure 1 to 3 millimeters in diameter and are painless. While some research suggests that individuals may have Fordyce spots from birth, they often become more prominent with age due to hormonal changes.
Diagnosing Fordyce Spots
Diagnosing Fordyce spots is usually straightforward, based on a clinical examination. In rare cases, a skin biopsy might be performed. Histologically, Fordyce spots are mature sebaceous glands located just below the mucosal epithelium, opening directly to the skin surface without an associated hair follicle. Proper diagnosis is crucial, as these spots can sometimes be confused with other skin conditions.
Why Fordyce Spots Become More Visible After Lip Fillers
Lip fillers are designed to add volume and definition to the lips, which can sometimes make Fordyce spots more noticeable. This happens because the increased lip volume and the natural texture of the lips create a contrast, drawing attention to the spots. Additionally, post-filler swelling, which is common in the first few days, can temporarily enhance the visibility of these spots. As the swelling subsides, the spots usually become less noticeable again. However, the change in lip texture after fillers—making the lips appear smoother, plumper, and more hydrated—can also contribute to the enhanced visibility of Fordyce spots.
Managing Fordyce Spots After Lip Fillers
It’s important to understand that Fordyce spots are a natural part of your skin and are not an adverse reaction to lip fillers. Their visibility is influenced by the volume and placement of the filler rather than the filler itself. With the right product selection, amount, and placement, the appearance of Fordyce spots can be carefully managed.
If you’re concerned about the visibility of Fordyce spots after your lip filler treatment, it’s advisable to consult with your aesthetic injector. They can offer reassurance, address any concerns, and discuss potential solutions, such as product selection or filler dissolving. Understanding the relationship between Fordyce spots and cosmetic enhancements is crucial for anyone considering or recovering from a lip filler procedure. While these spots are benign and pose no health risks, some patients may not like the visible appearance of them. However, while dissolving your lip filler may be an option it will not remove fordyce spots.
In conclusion, while Fordyce spots may become more visible after lip fillers, they are a natural and common feature of the skin. With proper consultation and care provided by The Best Injector, you can achieve the desired aesthetic results while managing the appearance of these spots effectively.
Examples of Fordyce Spots
