Are Lip Fillers Safe? A Guide to Choosing a Reputable Provider in San Diego
At Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness, we understand that deciding to get lip filler in San Diego can feel exciting and nerve-wracking at the same time. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and felt like your lips looked thinner, asymmetrical, or just not how they used to, you’re not alone. Many of my clients come in wanting a little boost but worry about safety, potential risks, and—let’s be honest—looking overdone.
If you’ve been considering lip fillers in San Diego but are unsure where to start, I want to help you feel informed, confident, and excited about your decision. In this guide, I’ll go over the safety of lip fillers, what to look for in a reputable provider in San Diego, and how to achieve beautiful, natural-looking results.
My Journey in Aesthetic Medicine
I’m Nyree Van Maarseveen, WHNP, CNM, the owner of Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness. My journey in aesthetic medicine began in 2020, but my passion for beauty and helping others live their best lives has spanned over 30 years.
I earned my BS in Human Development and Family Studies from Cornell University, followed by a BS in Nursing from Johns Hopkins University in 2004. Later, I obtained my Master’s in Nursing from San Diego State University, becoming a Certified Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner.
Throughout my career, my mission has been to empower others—whether by supporting women to have the beautiful birth experience they deserve or by helping individuals look and feel their best. In 2023, I opened Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness to create a space where kindness, integrity, and personalized care are at the core of every treatment.
Photo with Julie Horne - A Medical Aesthetics Legend
I have trained with some of the most respected injectors in the field, including Julie Horne, Julie Bass Kaplan, Erika Barry, Waseem Garbia, Tom van Eijk, Leslie Fletcher, and Nicola Lowery. These experiences allow me to bring the most advanced, refined, and safe techniques to my clients.
Now, let’s talk about lip filler safety and how to make the best choice for your lips.
What Are Lip Fillers?
Lip fillers are injectable dermal fillers designed to add volume, enhance shape, and improve symmetry in the lips. The most common fillers are made of hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance in the body that provides hydration and plumpness.
At Beauty Energy Exchange, we use high-quality, FDA-approved hyaluronic acid fillers like:
Restylane Kysse – Known for its soft, natural feel and flexibility.
RHA3 and Restylane Contour – Great for adding volume and smoothness.
RHA2 – Ideal for subtle definition and hydration.
Are Lip Fillers Safe?
The short answer? Yes—when done correctly by a qualified provider.
Lip fillers are considered very safe when administered by an experienced injector who understands facial anatomy, proper techniques, and potential risks. As a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and Certified Nurse Midwife, I have extensive training in aesthetic medicine, and patient safety is always my top priority.
However, the safety of your lip filler treatment depends on who is performing the injection. This is where choosing the right provider becomes essential.
How to Choose a Safe and Reputable Injector in San Diego
Not all injectors are created equal, and your results will directly reflect the expertise of the person holding the syringe. Here’s what you should look for when selecting an injector for lip filler in San Diego:
1. Verify Medical Credentials
Your injector should be a licensed medical professional with specialized training in aesthetics. Look for:
Nurse practitioners (NP)
Physician assistants (PA)
Registered nurses (RN) under a medical director
Board-certified dermatologists or plastic surgeons
At Beauty Energy Exchange, I bring years of clinical experience to every procedure, ensuring your treatment is safe and medically sound.
2. Look at Their Before-and-After Photos
A skilled injector will have a portfolio of real client results. Pay attention to:
✔️ Symmetry
✔️ Natural fullness
✔️ Smooth contours
Avoid injectors whose results look lumpy, overfilled, or identical on every patient. Lip filler should enhance your natural beauty, not make you look like someone else.
Photo: Trained by the best in the industry- Julie Horne she is the owner of Julie Horne Academy where she trains aesthetic doctors and nurses who travel from all around the world to attend her worldwide “Lip Masterclass.”
3. Ask About Their Training and Experience
Experience matters. I personally trained with Julie Horne, one of the most well-respected lip filler experts in the industry. This training allows me to use advanced techniques that create refined, soft, and naturally proportioned lips.
When choosing an injector, ask:
How long have you been injecting fillers?
What techniques do you use?
What brand of fillers do you use and why?
A skilled injector will be happy to discuss their qualifications.
4. Avoid Bargain Prices
We all love a good deal, but when it comes to cosmetic injectables, cheap is rarely safe. If a provider offers significantly lower prices than other reputable med spas in San Diego, it may be a red flag.
Some risks of low-cost providers include:
❌ Use of counterfeit or expired filler
❌ Untrained or underqualified injectors
❌ Unsanitary conditions
Remember, this is your face—choose quality over price.
What to Expect After Getting Lip Filler
It’s completely normal to feel a little anxious after your treatment, especially if you experience swelling or bruising. Here’s what you can expect during the healing process:
🩹 Days 1-2: Swelling & Tenderness
Your lips may look bigger than expected—this is temporary!
Some bruising or unevenness is normal.
Ice and arnica gel can help with swelling.
💋 Days 3-4: Adjusting Period
Swelling begins to decrease.
Lips may feel firmer as the filler settles.
⌛ 1-2 Weeks: Final Results
Bruising should be gone.
Your lips will feel softer and look more natural.
If needed, we can do a touch-up at your follow-up appointment.
At Beauty Energy Exchange, we always schedule a two-week follow-up to ensure you’re happy with your results.
Common Concerns About Lip Fillers
Will I Look Fake or Overdone?
No, not if you choose the right injector. My philosophy is "Your Lips, But Better." I specialize in creating soft, balanced results that enhance your features, not change them.
Do Lip Fillers Hurt?
Most patients say the procedure is very tolerable. We offer a complimentary dental block, and use a strong medical-grade numbing cream to keep you comfortable.
How Long Do Lip Fillers Last?
Lip fillers typically last 6-12 months, depending on the type of filler used and individual metabolism.
What If I Don’t Like My Results?
One of the great things about hyaluronic acid fillers is that they are reversible. If needed, we can dissolve them safely with hyaluronidase.
Other Lip Enhancement Options
If you’re looking for a subtle enhancement without adding volume, consider a Lip Flip! This treatment uses wrinkle relaxers (Tox) to gently roll out the upper lip, making it look fuller without filler.
Benefits of a Lip Flip:
✔️ Enhances your natural lip shape
✔️ Creates a soft, lifted look
✔️ Quick treatment with no downtime
It’s a great option for those who want a natural enhancement without committing to filler.
Naturally fuller lips, no needles required! Ourself Lip Filler Duo uses patented Tiered-Release Vesicle™ technology to deliver hyaluronic acid deep into the lips for natural plumping and contouring. In clinical trials, over 98% of users reported visibly fuller, more defined lips within three weeks of consistent use.
Your Perfect Pout Starts with a Personalized Consultation!
Enhancing your lips should be a thoughtful, customized experience—not a one-size-fits-all approach. At Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness, we take the time to understand your goals, address any concerns, and design a treatment plan that enhances your natural beauty while maintaining balance and harmony with your features.
Whether you're looking for a subtle hydration boost, enhanced definition, or a naturally fuller look, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Not sure if lip filler or a lip flip is the right choice for you? During your consultation, we’ll discuss both options and tailor a plan that aligns with your unique vision—so you leave feeling confident, refreshed, and completely YOU.
📞 Contact Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness today!
Contact Beauty Energy Exchange Aesthetics and Wellness today!
Call us at (858) 330-2477 or book your consultation conveniently online
