Lip augmentation is classified as a cosmetic procedure, and provides plumper, fuller lips/ The most common type of filler used for lip augmentation is an injectable dermal filler. There are numerous types of dermal fillers available, designed to be injected not just into the lips, but around the mouth. The most common fillers currently used are products containing a substance a lot like hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid can be found in the body, and is a natural substance. This is what helps to increase the lips volume.
This type of dermal filler is also referred to as a hyaluronic acid filler. In the past, the most common dermal filler was Collagen, but it is not used very often anymore because the newer fillers have longer lasting effects, and are much safer. There are other methods used to provide plumpness to the lips including implants and fat injections. These are also not generally used because there is a much larger risk of side effects, and too much variation in the results.
The Results of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
There are many reasons the appearance of the lips are improved with the use of hyaluronic acid fillers. These fillers provide volume, structure and shape to the lips. The effects of hyaluronic acid fillers usually last approximately six months. To maintain the volume of the lips after this period, additional injections are necessary. There are quite a few hyaluronic acid fillers available today including Restylane Silk, Restylane-L, Restylane, Juvederm Ultra Plus, Juvederm Ultra, Prevelle Silk, Captique, HylaForm, Belotero Balance and Elevess. All of the hyaluronic acid fillers provide similar results, and they are injected in the same way. Some of these fillers contain lidocaine, which is a local anaesthetic.
The Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
Once the hyaluronic lip filler has been injected, the gel within the filler provides shape and support for the lips tissues. One of the additional benefits is the lip volume can be controlled. This provides the doctor with the ability to determine the amount of lip volume created. The pace of hyaluronic lip filler injections is controllable, and can be administered gradually. Often, the patient will make several appointments, and the injections will be given until the desired results have been completed.
If there are any bumps or lumps when the lips are moved, these can be easily dissolved. Hyaluronic lip fillers additionally cause less swelling and bruising in comparison to many of the other types of dermal fillers. Although the results are not permanent, they last a fairly long time. The average patient can expect the results to last for approximately six months.
The Allergic Reactions
Hyaluronic acid fillers do not generally cause any type of an allergic reaction. This is because the substance they are made from is naturally found in the body. Although an allergic reaction is uncommon, anyone allergic to lidocaine must inform their physician prior to the procedure.
The Specifics of the Procedure
Injectable lip injection techniques can be done quickly and easily in the physicians office. There is usually very little or no downtime, and the majority of individuals who have this procedure are pleased with the results. The only exception is fat injection, because one of the requirements of the procedure is to have liposuction in a small area on a different part of the body. This must be done prior to having the injection, making the procedure a little more time consuming.
A local or topical numbing agent is sometimes used before the injection to help the patient with any discomfort. When the physician wants the lips to be completely numb, a nerve block injection can be used prior to the treatment. This is a lot the like the anaesthetic injections a dentist gives before a procedure so the mouth is numb.
The physician will begin by marking the injection area very carefully. The substance is then injected into the lips with the use of extremely fine needles. Ice is usually applied to the area after the injection to control the swelling and ease any discomfort. It is important not to apply any firm pressure to the treatment area after the procedure. Any lip products including lipsticks and glosses should be avoided directly after the procedure. Most patients will notice the difference in their lips immediately, and once the healing has been completed, the lips should have a natural feel.
The Possible Risks and Side Effects
Any normal side effects caused by hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary, and will generally be gone within a few days. The side effects may include bruising, swelling, tenderness, redness and bleeding from the site of the injection. A reactivation of any fever blisters or cold sores such as herpes simplex in the area around the lips, or on the lips. Serious side effects are uncommon but may include irregularities or lumps in the lips, lip asymmetry, where sections of the lips may be different in size, and prolonged bruising or swelling lasting between a week and ten days.
Possible Infections
There is a small possibility of an infection with hyaluronic acid fillers injections. This can occur if the injection is in a blood vessel, and may result in scarring, ulceration, a stiffening of the lip and tissue loss. An allergic reaction may cause itching, swelling or redness around the lips. If the patient develops a fever, or the swelling becomes extreme, the physician should be consulted immediately.
The Cost for a Lip Augmentation
The cost for a lip augmentation will vary depending on the experience of the physician, the type of procedure being performed and the part of the country the procedure is occurring. The price of most fillers is usually per each syringe used. This means the amount of material necessary will determine the price. On average, most people require one or two syringes, making the total cost between £300 and £2,000 for the procedure. Cosmetic surgery will not be covered by most health insurance plans, and neither will any complications arising as a result of the procedure. It is important to understand all the fees associated with the procedure, and may physicians do offer a payment plan.
Deciding on Lip Augmentation
Prior to having lip augmentation, the individual must be certain they want to change their appearance by modifying their lips. For people with a sincere desire to improve the shape and fullness of their lips, hyaluronic acid fillers provide excellent results. Having the procedure because it is what someone else wants, or to try to create an idealistic image is not necessarily a good option. It is also extremely important the individual considering the procedure keeps their expectations realistic. Yes, the lips will be enhanced, fuller and plumper after the procedure, but this will not change the essence of the person, or make them into someone else.
The physician will be able to discuss both the cons and the pros of having a lip augmentation. This will help the individual decide which product and technique best suits their individual needs. Anyone having a lip augmentation should be a nonsmoker, and in good health. There are certain conditions that eliminate the possibility of lip augmentation. This includes Lupus, diabetes, active infections including oral herpes, and any issue involving blood clotting.
Any individual with oral herpes or cold sores in their past needs to inform their physician prior to having the procedure. Any individual allergic to lidocaine or with any known allergies must likewise speak with their physician before the procedure is performed. The physician must also be made aware of any medications being used including over-the-counter medications, prescription medications and herbal supplements.
Lip Augmentation Physicians
There are more than one speciality capably of performing lip augmentations including cosmetic facial surgeons, dermatologists and plastic surgeons. It is incredibly important to locate a physician with experience and qualifications regarding injections. It is equally as important the candidate trust the physician they select. Lip augmentation should not be done by just anyone because this can cause serious risks. The physician giving the injection must be experienced and confident in their abilities.
Prior to deciding which physician to use, it is important to do research. The individual should look into the education and training of the physician, and find out how many injections the physician has given in the past. It is important to know if the physician belongs to the medical association for their specialty, and if they have been board certified. Asking for before and after picture of individuals who have had the procedure done by the physician is a good idea. If this leaves the person with a good feeling, and trust in the physician, it is time to proceed. If the person is uncomfortable, or unhappy with the pictures and research they have done, the best option is to keep looking for a different physician.
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