Having “work done” used to be a taboo topic, but many people are now willing to talk openly about how they’ve altered their bodies cosmetically. One reason is changing cultural norms, but another factor is how rapidly the technology of cosmetic procedures has advanced. It’s now possible to achieve dramatic changes in your appearance without a single incision or suture, and thanks to ringing endorsements and public before-and-after photos from celebs like Kylie Jenner,* the rise of people opting for non-surgical procedures such as lip augmentation injections has skyrocketed in recent years. So what are the best lip injections?
While lip fillers will help you attain the plump pout that’s all over your Instagram feed, there are a few things you should know if you’ve decided you’re ready to get a mouth and lip augmentation.
Best Lip Injection Options
There are two major options for people who want to enhance the look of their lips with
injections.
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Juvéderm®, Belotero, Restylane Silk etc
A line of injectable dermal fillers, the hyaluronic acid (HA) family of products has become one of the most popular options for people who want to enhance their lips. Composed of hyaluronic acid, which is a substance found in almost every living being, these products are an FDA- approved – when injected into lips – acts like a cushion to volumize them. It also attracts water to the area to provide even more soft volume. -
Tissue Transfer
Tissue transfer is a procedure that relies on your own body tissue to restore lost volume for more natural-looking, longer-lasting results. In this procedure, your cosmetic surgeon will extract tissue from an inconspicuous “donor” area of your body and implant it into your lips to plump and contour them. The “donor” tissue can come from your body fat or the layer of your skin called the dermis.
Your body will eventually absorb the hyaluronic acid filler, which means you will need to get “refresher” treatments every four to six months or so if you want to maintain your look.
However, with tissue transfer, the implanted cells can have blood vessel ingrowth, so the results can last much longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do they feel different than natural lips?
When done properly by a skilled, qualified cosmetic surgeon, lip fillers shouldn’t feel any different from natural lips.
When will I see results?
Immediately after the procedure, your lips will be slightly swollen. As you recover, you may want to use ice packs to minimize swelling and bruising. About 24 hours after receiving treatment, your initial swelling should subside, revealing the final result over the upcoming weeks.
What are the risks of lip fillers?
This varies with what substance is used and the skill of your cosmetic surgeon but it’s also very rare. Most doctors have switched to the HA fillers as they can be injected in the office without the need for tissue harvesting as one would need when using your own tissue as a filler. An allergic reaction with collagen skin treatments but it is extremely rare with hyaluronic acid fillers. Asymmetry or irregular resorption of the HA fillers can be a concern.
What happens if I decide I don’t like my results?
One advantage of hyaluronic acid-based fillers is that an enzyme called hyaluronidase ** can counteract the effects, even before the fillers naturally dissolve into your body. If you opted to get hyaluronic acid-based fillers and end up unsatisfied with the look of your lips, you can reverse the effects of filler.
Are there alternative options to injectable lip augmentations?
When applied topically on your lips, hyaluronic acid creates the same effects on the surface of your lips as it does when injected inside your lips.
It fills the skin cells in your lips with maximum moisture, so your lips look naturally full and plumped. These filler alternatives are best suited to making lips look plush and naturally voluminous, without giving you the sizing change an injectable will provide.
What’s the best way to find a reputable doctor?
"Research is key and finding a skilled medically qualified injector is essential. Check the qualifications of your treater. Be wary of “home or salon” events where fillers are provided at a discount. Dr. Kulick is classified as an “expert injector” and provides one of the best lip augmentation in San Francisco and has taught other physicians regarding his techniques at courses sponsored by the American Society of Plastic Surgery. For further information, contact his office.
* Source: Instagram.com
** Source: mdedge.com, July 27, 2016
Dr. Michael Kulick, MD is a leading board certified plastic surgeon in San Francisco, California. During an initial consultation, he’ll examine your individual anatomy, discuss all your options, and create a unique treatment plan along with any other necessary procedures. If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of plastic surgery and are looking for a qualified cosmetic surgeon, use this online form to request a consultation with Dr. Kulick or call 415-956-2550.
