Face Lift

Lip Augmentation: Frequently Asked Questions

If your lips aren't as full as you'd like them to be, lip augmentation may be an option. You should have lots of questions, and possibly some concerns. Here are some of the most commonly-asked questions about lip augmentation, along with their answers:

  1. What is lip augmentation?
  2. What does a consultation for lip augmentation typically entail?
  3. How is lip augmentation with implants performed?
  4. What should I expect postoperatively?
  5. How is lip augmentation with fillers performed?
  6. When will I be able to see the results?
  7. What are the risks of lip augmentation?
  8. Is lip augmentation reversible?

 

1. What is lip augmentation?

Lip augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that enhances the size and shape of your lips. There are basically two ways to augment the size of your lips. Injectable fillers provide a nonsurgical, usually temporary boost for your lips, while surgically-inserted lip implants offer a permanent solution. A new option — laser lip rejuvenation — can be used to enhance either surgical or nonsurgical approaches.

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2. What does a consultation for lip augmentation typically entail?

During a lip augmentation consultation, the surgeon will listen as you explain your issues with your lips and your aesthetic goals for improving them. He or she will then determine if you are a good candidate for lip augmentation by taking a thorough medical history and examining your lips and mouth. The surgeon should also answer all your questions and discuss the risks and costs associated with lip augmentation.

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3. How is lip augmentation with implants performed?

Lip augmentation with implants can involve local flap grafts taken from tissue, skin, muscle or fascia (connective tissue) harvested from inside the mouth, or tube-shaped synthetic implants made of Alloderm, Gortex and Softform. Lip augmentation with implants can take up to two hours to perform on an outpatient basis, usually under local or intravenous sedation anesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision along the inside of the lip in the corners of the mouth, inserts the implant and closes the incision with sutures.

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4. What should I expect postoperatively?

You should expect your lips to be very swollen and quite tender following your implant procedure. Numbness may last for several days, and you may have difficulty drinking or eating without spilling a bit.

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5. How is lip augmentation with fillers performed?

Fillers are administered by injection by a highly-qualified physician or injector. Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Restylane and Juvederm are often used for lip augmentation by injection. Their plumping properties last three to six months, making them a good way to test drive lip augmentation without investing in surgery. Fat grafting from your own body can also be used for lip augmentation.

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6. When will I be able to see the results?

The results are usually visible immediately. For implants and most injectables, your lips will be quite large and swollen at first; you will begin to notice a difference in your lips as the swelling subsides during the first week after your procedure.

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7. What are the risks of lip augmentation?

The risks of lip augmentation are minimal, but they do exist. With lip implants, infection and/or irritation from an improperly-sized implant can occur. Extrusion (the body rejecting the implant) is also a risk, as is migration (movement of the implant). Permanent discolorations from the bruising can occur, and hematomas are possible. Injectable filers have some risks, too. Some products carry a risk of allergic reaction. Other risks include infection, necrosis (tissue death), granuloma formation, and severe inflammation.

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8. Is lip augmentation reversible?

Lip augmentation with an implant is reversible; that is to say, the implant can be removed during a subsequent surgery. Lip augmentation with most injectables is temporary, so the effects disappear on their own with time. Permanent injectables are more difficult to remove, so keep this in mind when making your decision.

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