What is lip augmentation?
Lip augmentation is an in-office cosmetic procedure that creates fuller, more youthful-looking lips. There are different types of lip augmentation to fit your needs and goals. Some procedures are nonsurgical, using fillers to plump up the lips temporarily. Others involve small incisions in your lips or face for longer-lasting results.
Lip augmentation is a cosmetic procedure aimed at enhancing the fullness and shape of the lips. This can be achieved through various techniques, both surgical and non-surgical. Here are some common methods:
- Dermal Fillers: Non-surgical lip augmentation is often performed using injectable dermal fillers. Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as Juvederm or Restylane, are commonly used. The injections add volume to the lips and can also improve the appearance of fine lines around the mouth. Results are temporary and may last several months, requiring maintenance treatments.
- Fat Transfer: In this surgical procedure, fat is taken from another part of the body (usually abdomen or thighs) through liposuction, processed, and then injected into the lips to enhance volume. The results are natural-looking and can be long-lasting.
- Lip Implants: Surgical lip implants involve the insertion of silicone implants into the lips to achieve a fuller appearance. This is a more permanent solution compared to fillers but involves a surgical procedure.
- Lip Lift: A lip lift is a surgical procedure that shortens the space between the nose and the upper lip, resulting in a more lifted and enhanced upper lip. This can create a youthful and more defined lip contour.
- Lip Flip: This non-surgical technique involves injecting a small amount of Botox into the muscles around the mouth to relax them, causing the upper lip to flip slightly outward. This gives the illusion of fuller lips without adding volume.
How long does lip augmentation last?
How long your fuller lips last varies by procedure. For example:
- Lip fillers last six months to a year.
- Fat grafting lasts at least five years.
- A lip lift is permanent.
- Lip implants are permanent but can be removed at any time.
Who should consider lip augmentation?
Your plastic surgeon will assist you in determining whether you are a good candidate for lip augmentation and which surgery is best for you.
You are most likely a candidate for lip augmentation if you:
- They are in good health.
- Do not smoke or are able to quit smoking before to the treatment.
- You don’t have an active infection, such as a cold sore.
- You do not have a chronic illness such as diabetes or lupus.
- Have reasonable expectations for your results.
What happens after a lip augmentation procedure?
You’ll be given information on how to assist your lips heal and optimize your results. The plastic surgeon may recommend: For the first few days, eat soft foods.
- Sleeping with your head elevated.
- Not moving your lips too much.
- For many days, apply an ice pack to your lips.
When should I make an appointment with my doctor?
If you have any of the following symptoms, contact your plastic surgeon immediately.
- A reaction to an allergen or an illness.
- Bruising that does not heal.
- Excessive bruising.
- Fever.
- Swelling is severe.
