The following post is a contribution from a PriceDoc Provider defining the lip augmentation procedure in simplified terms. Many thanks to Julian Henley, M.D., for taking the time to answer these questions. We hope this post provides enough information to answer your questions, but if you do have any, ask them in the comments below!
- Definition, in simple terms, of a lip augmentation and any other commonly used names:
- Lip augmentation is a procedure that uses synthetic or biological products or surgical restructuring to enhance the lips and can be achieved by many procedures. Some of these procedures are permanent, while others provide only temporary results. Lip enhancement can be used for many reasons, such as small, deflated lips, asymmetry, reconstructive needs, drooping or sagging upper lip, lack of color, and/or wrinkling.
- What specific type of Provider (Specialist) offers a lip augmentation?
- Plastic Surgeon, Cosmetic surgeon, Facial Plastic surgeon. Don’t forget to check PriceDoc to find out how much lip augmentation surgery costs near you!
- Are there new techniques available today for a lip augmentation?
- Most lip augmentation procedures are performed in the office sting with a variety of injectable fillers – most of which are not permanent. Some practitioners will use off label medical grade silicone oil which is permanent as compared to other available fillers. Silicone injections remain controversial among many practitioners. Most patients will do well, but rare granuloma complications can be disfiguring and not correctable.
There are several surgical augmentation techniques that use gortex, silastic, autologous tissue (from same patient), and fat transfer techniques. The object is to create better harmony with other features of the face and not something excessive and out of proportion. As we age a subtle thinning of the lips occurs. During facial rejuvenation procedures it is common to address the lips as well as other features.
- Most lip augmentation procedures are performed in the office sting with a variety of injectable fillers – most of which are not permanent. Some practitioners will use off label medical grade silicone oil which is permanent as compared to other available fillers. Silicone injections remain controversial among many practitioners. Most patients will do well, but rare granuloma complications can be disfiguring and not correctable.
- What are the potential risks/side-effects of getting a lip augmentation (if any)?
- Risks include: bleeding that may require going back to surgery to stop the bleeding, infection that may require antibiotics or implant removal, movement of the implants or extrusion and/or uneven lips. Normal side-effects can include redness and swelling or itching at the injection sites. Risks of persistent asymmetry can occur. The greatest risk is excessive augmentation that simply does not look natural or in proportion to other features of the face.
- Do I need any tests and/or exams before getting a lip augmentation (if any)?
- You will need an initial consultation with your surgeon to discuss the changes that you would like to make in your appearance. He or she will also explain the different options available to you, the procedure itself, and the risks and limitations involved.
- How long does it take to complete the chin augmentation procedure?
- Most lip augmentations take a half hour to two hours. Most are performed in the office setting or in hospital when combined with other procedures.
- Most lip augmentations take a half hour to two hours. Most are performed in the office setting or in hospital when combined with other procedures.
- What is the recovery timeline from getting a lip augmentation (if any)?
- Recovery time will depend on which procedure you undergo. Most people who have injections are fine within a day or two, with swelling and bruising that may last as long as two weeks. With surgical implants or grafts it can take about two weeks before you will feel comfortable in public. Cold compresses should be used for 12 hours to control the swelling. You will also need to eat soft foods that don’t require chewing after the procedure.
- What do we know about outcomes for a lip augmentation?
- Some of the procedures offer permanent results and some are temporary. Results of lip augmentation vary according to the procedure used. Many patients who wanted a tasteful augmentation and not excessive got used to the early post procedure swelling and were a little disappointed when the early swelling subsided and the more subtle augmentation remained.
Dr. Henley is a nationally published innovator who developed a novel neck suspension “Wattle neck” procedure and more recent work in Biomatrix Lift based on new technology that combines tissue repositioning with tissue regeneration. He is a holder of 30 patents in biotechnology and medical innovation.
Again, we extend thanks to Julian Henley, M.D., who took the time to answer these questions for you! Hopefully this information gets you started on your understanding of this procedure. If you have any other questions, leave them in the comments below and we’ll see if he will be available to answer them! (Or, read more on lip augmentation here.) -The PriceDoc Team
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