Lips
Lip augmentation can be performed using surgical and non-surgical techniques. Hyaluronic acid lip filler injections are the most popular form of lip enhancement. These can be injected in the office in under 30 minutes and results last anywhere from 4 to 12 months depending on the type and amount of filler used and individual patient anatomy. Fillers can provide a fuller, pouty appearing lip. They can also help temporarily reverse age-related volume loss in the lips.
Bruising and swelling after lip filler injections usual last 3 to 5 days and patients can return to work and their normal activity immediately.
With age, the upper lip loses height and volume. The ideal upper lip is one half the height of the lower lip. Sometimes fillers are not enough to reverse age-related changes to the upper lip, or more upper teeth show is desired. In this case, permanent upper lip enhancement can be achieved with an upper lip lift. This is performed using an incision under the nose, well hidden in the crease under the nostrils and columella. A precise amount of skin and soft tissue is removed and the upper lip is pulled up. This creates an upper lip that is more pouty and in better proportion with the lower lip. A lip lift can be done under local or general anesthesia.
Swelling lasts 1 to 3 weeks and bruising lasts up to 2 weeks. Patients usually return to work at 1 week after surgery or sooner.
