A lip augmentation procedure is commonly done on women or men who may be dissatisfied with their current lips. Lip Augmentation or also referred to as lip enhancement provides fuller lips and helps diminish wrinkles around the mouth. Dr. Edward Buckingham provides several options for lip enhancement. Majority of the procedures are non-invasive and temporary. But there is also an option for a more permanent solution.
The permanent approach is called Permalip Facial Implantation. This procedure uses a tissue implant to gain the desired fullness the patient desires. The surgery is considered to be a minor procedure, with only two small incisions needed so there is minimal scarring. The patient may have some discomfort after, but pain medications may be prescribed to eliminate the pain. An antibiotic may also be prescribed to help prevent infection.
Majority of the lip enhancement procedures have to do with injectable fillers. There are several types of fillers that can be used, but it depends what the patient’s goals and desires are. All of the injectable filler procedures are done the same way; during an office visit. The procedure typically takes forty-five minutes to an hour to complete where a very thin needle is used to guide the injection into the desired areas. After the procedure the patient may discover some minor swelling and redness, but they will subside a few hours after surgery. Depending on the patient’s age, medical history, and goals will determine the filler that will be used. All fillers provide slightly similar, but also very different outcomes. Some may provide only fuller lips and others may provide a more youthful look by diminishing wrinkles and providing a slight enlargement. All of that will be determined and discussed at the consultation with your doctor. Keep in mind, since these are not permanent solutions the patient would have to come back every six months if they wish to keep their desired look going. That is one of the most important facts the patient needs to be aware about and comfortable with before setting up the procedure.
Two of the most common injectable fillers are collagen replacement materials called Restylane or Juvederm. These are commonly performed on women who have lost fullness and volume and desire a more youthful appearance with fuller lips. These are also the injectables that younger women tend to get when they are dissatisfied with their lips and would like more fullness.
The Belotero facial filler is comprised of hyaluronic acid that helps provide a healthier and rejuvenated look. Hyaluronic acid is naturally occurring in the body that helps add volume and moisture to the skin and lips. As a person ages, the acid starts to break down and diminish which contributes to the look of fine lines and wrinkles on the lips. By having the hyaluronic acid injectable filler it will work with your own dermal tissue allowing a more subtle enhancement over time. This makes your lip enhancement look more natural. Belotero filler is more commonly used with ageing women.
One of the last fillers is Restylane Silk which is similar to the Restylane filler. Retylane Silk is the first FDA approved filler that can be used in and around the lips. By utilizing this filler both in and around the patient’s lips will help provide a more consistent look. The filler also provides a more natural look than other fillers because of the consistency.
Even though all of the injectable filler procedures are done in the same manner there is still different advantages and disadvantages of each filler. Whether or not a patient is satisfied with the outcome of the procedure is all dependent on the goals and desires that were discussed during their consultation with their doctor. Dr. Buckingham believes a successful plastic surgery procedure is dependent on the bond between the patient, doctor, the staff, appointments, and most importantly the consultation appointment. During the consultation is when your doctor really gets to know you and why you are dissatisfied with your lips, what your goals are of the procedure, and any questions you may have. This is a time to have all questions asked and the type of filler and/or permanent procedure that is going to be used will be determined and discussed further.
If you are interested in learning more about lip augmentation procedures and would like to set up a consultation appointment, please call the office at 512-401-2500 or you can fill out our contact form too!
