Lip Augmentation Procedures

Lip augmentation is typically performed by a cosmetic surgeon, although some lip enhancement procedures can be performed by day spa technicians who are supervised by a cosmetic surgeon.  Here’s a look at the procedures that are currently available.

Surgical Modifications of the Lips

Full surgical procedures are usually reserved for deformities such as cleft palate.  Injectable lip fillers are the more popular procedures today.  However, lip lifts are available.
Lifts can improve shape.  The lozenge shape is particularly desirable.  Youthful lips are described as lozenge shaped with a definite bow in the center. 

A lip lift can correct drooping corners or sagging that accompanies age.  The lip augmentation procedure may be used to smooth out smoking lines.  Those are vertical wrinkles stretching from the upper lips to just below the nose.  The description is apt, because they are most often seen in smokers. 

Surgical modifications can also be used to correct overly large or bulky lips.  Tissue can be stretched or removed as necessary to make the desired change. 

Lip Injections

All lip injections are designed to improve fullness.  They may also stretch out fine lines or wrinkles and correct visible signs of aging.  In some cases lip injections provide a more desirable shape.  What follows is a brief description of the different solutions that can be injected.

Collagen

Before you can get a Collagen Lip Injection, you must have an allergy test.  The material is extracted from cow hide to which some people are allergic.  Four weeks of observation are required to rule out allergic reactions.

The results of collagen injections last for several months.  Other than allergic reactions, side effects can include hardened nodules or bumps beneath the skin.  These can be dissolved using another injectable solution.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is the current material of choice for lip enhancement.  The compound is similar to what is naturally present in the body.  So there is no risk of allergic reactions. 
Hyaluronic acid is sold under the brand names of Restylane and Juvederm.  Results typically last for six months.  Excessive fullness can be corrected with additional injections.

Fat Transfer

There is no chance of allergic reaction for this type of lip injection, because the fat is harvested from another part of the patients own body using liposuction or surgical removal.  The results may last longer, because the fat is slower to break down.  But lumping or scarring can occur. 

Gore-Tex

Gore-Tex lip implants are some of the longest lasting.  But because the substance is recognized by the immune system as a foreign body, there is a risk of infection or rejection. 

Gore-Tex implants are a form of lip augmentation typically used only when dramatic changes are desirable.  Ask your doctor about which procedure is right for you.