Today, fuller and sexier lips are the rage, influencing both males and females to get lip enhancements. Lip fillers are one of the most popular types of dermal fillers, which are used to temporarily or permanently enhance the shape and size of the lips. Dermatologists or doctors tailor the treatment depending on the patient’s needs.  

In this blog, we’ve rounded up the most important information and everything you need to know about lip augmentation, particularly with hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers. But first, let’s tackle the basics.  

What are dermal fillers? 

Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that are injected under the skin to make it look plumper, smoother, and fuller, and to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates dermal fillers, but approved fillers are temporary since the body can break down and absorb their contents.  

The most popular dermal fillers that are absorbed in the body are those containing hyaluronic acid, a sugar found naturally in the body, poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), a biodegradable and synthetic material, and calcium hydroxylapatite, a mineral found in the bones.  

Dermal fillers are injected under the skin particularly in the cheeks, chin, back of the hand, jawline, under-eye hollows, and lips. These fillers correct skin folds and wrinkles, correct acne scars on the cheek area, and restore facial fat loss in some people with health conditions.  

What is lip augmentation?  

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons describes lip augmentation, lip enhancement, or lip fillers as a treatment to improve the size and shape of the lips. Lip fillers are injected into the upper and lower lips. There are many types of lip fillers, including products containing hyaluronic acid.  

Another type of lip augmentation is fat or dermis graft, which involves taking your fat tissue from one part of the body and using it to make the lips plumper. However, this procedure is longer since it requires a procedure called liposuction.  

Lip fillers, particularly the ones containing hyaluronic acid are very popular since it’s naturally found in the body. It works well since there is a low risk of an allergic reaction.  

What is hyaluronic acid (HA)? 

Hyaluronic acid (HA), also called hyaluronan, is a natural substance found in the fluids in the joints and eyes. It is a clear and gooey substance that works as a lubricant and cushion. The body naturally contains HA and it attracts and binds to water molecules and increases the skin’s water content.  

The key benefit of HA is hydration. It has an extremely powerful ability to retain moisture, hence, making it a potent skincare ingredient to fight dryness and aging effects. The skin contains half of the hyaluronic acid in the body, though its levels decline with age. The decline may lead to dry skin and wrinkles.  

Other benefits of HA include promoting healthier and more supple skin, hastening wound healing, relieving joint pain, improving wrinkles and fine lines, and addressing dry skin.  

Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid fillers 

The lip area is an important area when it comes to facial aesthetic enhancement. People usually regard the lips, along with the eyes, as the two most beautiful regions of a man’s or woman’s face. However, aging, photodamage, smoking, and hereditary factors, may lead to lip volume loss.  

The results of lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary, usually lasting 6 to 12 months or sometimes longer. In some instances, lip fillers can last up to 18 months. The body will naturally and gradually absorb the particles. The most popular HA fillers include Juvéderm, Belotero Balance, and Visaglow, among others.  

Who are eligible to get lip fillers? 

Choosing lip augmentation is a personal decision. To be considered an eligible patient to get lip fillers, you should be in good physical health, not have an active oral infection such as cold sores, and have realistic expectations. 

Some of the reasons people get lip augmentation include: 

  • Correct the shape of the lips. Many people are not satisfied with the shape of their lips. Those with thin lips want to have plumper and fuller lips. In some people, the lips may be asymmetrical so they opt to get lip fillers to correct this.  

  • Restore the previous lip size. Some people may lose the plumpness or shape of their lips as they age. The lips may become thinner or smaller.  

  • Increased self-esteem. Boosting one’s confidence can be attained with lip fillers. You improve your body image with fuller and plumper lips. 

  • Address lip wrinkles. Lip wrinkles may form on the sides of the mouth when you smile or laugh. Lip fillers can address these wrinkles.  

Pros and cons of lip augmentation 

Lip augmentation has both advantages and disadvantages.  

The pros of lip augmentation include: 

  • Out-patient treatment and can go home or to work immediately 

  • Variety of types and treatments depending on the needs, goals, and budget 

  • Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid fillers is safe and it’s easily accepted by the body, reducing allergy risk 

  • Boosts confidence and self-esteem 

The cons of lip augmentation include: 

  • Fillers are temporary, including lip fillers with HA, so you need to top up regularly 

What happens during and after lip augmentation? 

During a lip filler procedure, the dermatologist or cosmetic doctor will apply a topical anesthetic to numb the lips. The painless procedure will involve using a thin needle to inject the lip filler into the lips, including the center, the edges, and the corners of the mouth.   

After the procedure, the doctor will apply an ice pack to the lips to reduce bruising and swelling. They will also slightly and gently massage the lips so they absorb the filler. The procedure may last between 30 minutes to 1 hour.  

A monitoring period of 15 minutes will commence making sure you will not experience any side effects. After the monitoring, you’re allowed to go home or be discharged. Immediately after the procedure, you may have slight swelling and bruising but they will go away after about 24 to 48 hours. A follow-up appointment will be set to determine the efficacy and success of the procedure.  

To hasten the healing of the lips, you can apply an ice pack for 10 minutes after the procedure, avoid puckering or touching the lips, avoid kissing or sipping from a straw, drink lots of water, be careful when brushing the teeth, prevent wearing lipstick or any lip balm for at least 24 hours, and refrain from exercising for at least 24 hours.  

Takeaway 

Lip augmentation has become extremely popular because apart from making the lips look full and sexy, it can reduce the signs of aging. Remember, getting lip fillers is a personal choice and you should be aware they’re temporary. Consult with a dermatologist or healthcare provider about getting fillers to determine what type you need and for what reason you should get them.  

Article Reviewed by Dr. Zharlah G. Flores, MD, FPDS