What lip augmentation techniques are used?
There are many lip augmentation techniques and you should discuss them with your surgeon to find the one that is right for you. Anyone who wants a fuller, more youthful looking mouth can choose between surgical lip implants or the nonsurgical lip injections. The method you choose depends on how you want to look, how permanent you want it to be, and the degree of your comfort with the idea of lip augmentation surgery.
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How is lip augmentation with lip implants performed?
Putting in lip implants is not very complex, nor does it take a long time. You will receive a shot of local anesthetic and your surgeon will make four incisions, two on each lip in the corners of the mouth. He or she will insert the implant by pulling it through the lip from one end to the other. After insertion, your surgeon cuts the implant to the size best for the patient's individual lip and trims the ends of the implant if necessary. The incision areas are then sutured.
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Where are lip implants incisions made?
In a lip augmentation procedure with lip implants, the incisions are made right where the lips meet on each side, resulting in four small incisions and little or no scarring. For a lip lift, the incision is right under your nose and the scar will usually blend in well. For lip reduction surgery, the incision is on the inside of the lips where it is hidden. The lips usually heal quite fast, as long as you follow your doctor's instructions and resist the urge to touch your lips.
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What should I expect postoperatively?
Your lips will probably be swollen and tender after the procedure. You will also look full-lipped. You may also feel numb, which may create some difficulty with drinking or eating. Sutures, if any, are usually removed in about 7 to 10 days. It may sting a bit during removal.
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Is lip augmentation surgery painful? Is there much bruising?
It takes about a week for most of the swelling to subside, although your lips will be sensitive to light or medium pressure for about 3 weeks. There is really not too much bruising for most people, but some patients are prone to bruising more than others.
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When will I be able to see the lip augmentation results?
The results of lip augmentation are usually immediate. In fact, your lips will be quite large and swollen, but you will see a difference as the swelling subsides in the first week after the procedure.
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What are the risks of lip augmentation?
There are not too many risks associated with lip augmentation in comparison to other cosmetic procedures, but there are some. The biggest adverse outcome is allergic reaction. For more detailed information on the risks, please visit the risks section.
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How are lip implants comparable to injectables?
Most lip injectables give wonderful, voluptuous and immediate results, but they wear off. They are cheaper at first, but more expensive in the long run because they need to be repeated frequently. Lip implants and permanent lip injectables (injectable micro-implants), give results that are long lasting, but they are more invasive than temporary injectables. In addition, injectable micro-implants have not been around long enough to show whether the results are truly permanent, and many are not yet FDA approved. If you want permanent, yet reversible results, get synthetic implants. If you want a very full, pouty mouth, but don't want anything permanent, try temporary injectables, but be prepared to spend more on touch ups and maintenance.
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Is lip augmentation reversible?
Lip augmentation with most injectables is temporary, so the results eventually disappear. Lip augmentation with an ePTFE implant such as Gore-Tex is reversible since the implant can be removed. Permanent micro-implants are difficult to remove, so consider this when you make your choice.
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