What is mesotherapy around the mouth?
Mesotherapy around the mouth is mesotherapy performed in the skin around the mouth. As defined in the Mesotherapy Application Guideline (opens in a new tab) of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye, mesotherapy is a method carried out “by injecting herbal or pharmacological products in small doses, regionally and with special needle techniques, into the layers of the skin in sessions”.
Around the mouth, the blood vessels beneath the skin are dense and close to the surface, so bruising and swelling are seen more often here. In addition, cold sores (herpes) may reactivate in this area; in people who have had cold sores before, this risk is discussed separately.
Mesotherapy around the mouth and lip dermal filler are different procedures. Lip dermal filler is described on its own page; mesotherapy is not aimed at changing the volume of the lips.
The procedure may only be carried out by physicians holding the relevant certificate, at premises authorised by the Ministry (opens in a new tab).
In which patients is the procedure not performed?
The patient groups in whom the procedure cannot be performed under the Mesotherapy Application Guideline are listed below:
- In pregnant and breastfeeding patients
- In patients under 18 years of age
- In patients with an infection, an open wound or a rash in the procedure area
- In patients with an inflammatory skin disease or rosacea
- In patients in whom blood pressure or blood sugar control cannot be achieved
- In patients with advanced heart failure and/or a history of a heart attack
- In patients with advanced liver and/or kidney failure
- In patients taking warfarin
- In patients with a history of allergy to the product to be used, and in patients with a drug interaction
- In patients with a history of epilepsy (not in remission)
- In patients with septic arthritis, and in patients in the active phase of a rheumatic disease
- In patients with a history of a cerebrovascular event, and in patients with a bleeding diathesis
- In patients with a body mass index above 30
- In patients with a diagnosis of AIDS
Special groups: in oncology patients, in patients of advanced age and in patients during an acute attack of a chronic disease, the procedure is performed with the opinion of the relevant specialist physician.
Additional conditions specific to this area
The procedure is not performed if the following are present in the area to be treated:
- An active cold sore (herpes) lesion (we wait for it to heal)
- An active infection, sore or crack inside the mouth or on the lip
In these situations, the procedure is planned subject to the physician’s assessment:
- Frequent cold sores (a preventive approach is discussed with the physician before the procedure)
- Permanent make-up or previously applied dermal filler in the area
If dental treatment or a gum procedure has recently been carried out, the procedure is postponed.
How is the procedure performed?
- Assessment. We ask about any history of cold sores, the condition of the teeth and gums, and previous procedures in the area. Current medication and allergy history are recorded. Blood pressure and pulse are measured.
- Information and consent. The risks specific to this area, bruising and reactivation of cold sores, are explained separately; a form is signed.
- Preparation. There must be no make-up or cream on the area. Antisepsis is ensured.
- The procedure. The product is applied in small volumes, in keeping with the structure of the area.
- Observation. Vital signs and any side effects observed are recorded in the file.
How long does it take, and how many sessions are needed?
The Guideline states that, in procedures other than pain management, the intervals between sessions are between 1 and 3 weeks. The number of sessions cannot be given in advance as a single figure.
What should you do before and after the procedure?
Before the procedure, report:
- A list of all the medicines and supplements you use (in particular blood thinners)
- Whether you have had cold sores before
- Whether you have had dental treatment recently
- Your pregnancy status
Come with no make-up on the lips or around them.
After:
- Bruising and swelling are seen frequently in this area and may last a few days; you are advised not to plan the procedure before an important event
- On the day of the procedure, you are advised not to use lipstick or lip products and to avoid very hot food and drink
- The Guideline describes mild oedema in the first 72 hours as an expected finding
Risks and side effects
What may also be seen in this area
- Marked bruising and swelling
- Reactivation of cold sores (herpes)
- Temporary tingling
- Temporary discomfort while speaking and eating
The unwanted effects reported by the Guideline fall under the following headings.
Related to the product
- Mild itching and redness
- With acid-based products, pain during the procedure; excessive pain sensitivity after the session
- In applications containing a corticosteroid, thinning of the skin (atrophy) and change in colour
Related to how the procedure is performed
- Oedema, pain and tenderness
- Pain due to an excessive amount of product
- Local infection where hygiene rules are not followed
Related to the injection entry point
- Bleeding, pain and tenderness
- Tenderness of the skin at the end of the procedure
Rarely seen situations for which a plan of intervention is set out in advance
- Allergic reaction
- Infection
- Tissue death (dermal necrosis)
- Vasovagal syncope (fainting)
- Raised blood pressure
- Oedema lasting beyond 72 hours, or excessive oedema
Results vary from person to person.
When should you see a physician without delay?
If you experience these symptoms during treatment, contact your physician without delay:
- The appearance of blisters resembling cold sores
- Increasing redness, increased warmth or discharge in the procedure area
- A high fever
- Oedema exceeding 72 hours or progressively increasing
- Widespread rash, itching
In the event of shortness of breath, swelling of the tongue or face, difficulty speaking or swallowing, altered consciousness, or blanching or bruising on or around the lip together with severe pain, go directly to the emergency department.
Frequently asked questions
Is mesotherapy around the mouth the same as lip filler?
No. Lip filler is a separate procedure aimed at changing the volume of the lips. Mesotherapy is planned around the condition of the skin in this area and is not aimed at a change in volume.
I have a history of cold sores; can the procedure be carried out?
Please mention this at the beginning of the consultation. In people who have had cold sores before, the procedure may lead to the reactivation of a cold sore in this area. If there is an active cold sore lesion, the procedure is not performed; in those who have frequent cold sores, a preventive approach is discussed with the physician.
Does bruising occur in this area?
Because the blood vessels in this area are dense and close to the surface, bruising and swelling are seen frequently and may last a few days. You are advised not to plan the procedure before an important event.
Will my lines above the lip go away?
No such outcome can be stated in advance. The lines in this area develop with age, sun exposure, habitual facial expressions and smoking. The response varies from person to person.
Can I wear lipstick after the procedure?
You are advised not to use lipstick or lip products on the day of the procedure. You will be told separately at the end of the procedure when you may use them again.
I have had dental treatment; can I have the procedure straight away?
After recent dental treatment or a gum procedure, mesotherapy is postponed. Please mention the date of your dental treatment at the consultation.
Sources
- Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye, General Directorate of Health Services, Mezoterapi Uygulama Kılavuzu, Ankara, June 2025. https://ekutuphane.saglik.gov.tr/Yayin/694 (opens in a new tab)
- Ministry of Health of the Republic of Türkiye, Geleneksel ve Tamamlayıcı Tıp Uygulamaları Yönetmeliği, Official Gazette 28 April 2026 / 33237. https://www.resmigazete.gov.tr/eskiler/2026/04/20260428-2.htm (opens in a new tab)
