Lip Augmentation

What Is A Lip Augmentation?

Lip Augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that is concerned with smoothening out the wrinkles around the lips.  This is done through synthetic and natural substances.  The time it takes for recovery is usually very short but the immediate result can stay for a very long time.

Are you a candidate for Lip Augmentation?

Not everyone who wishes to have Lip Augmentation is a good candidate for the procedure. Some people just cannot fit into the category of those who can have some kind of implantation or injection, be it natural or artificial.  Those with cases of Herpes Simplex, those with AIDS and those with any form of autoimmune disorder may not be good candidates for Lip Augmentation surgery. 

The Plastic Surgery Procedure

Plastic surgeons inject collagen, fat, or insert implants around the mouth to augment the lips. It's necessary to do an allergy test prior to undergoing the procedure to rule out the chance of any postoperative allergic reactions. Implants can be patients own fat tissue taken from another body part or any other bio-compatible matter that is a natural collagen sheet manufactured from donated skin. Sometimes synthetic implants like Gore-Tex and SoftForm are also used for lip augmentation.  Other commonly used Lip Augmentation implants include:

Some plastic surgeons may also suggest laser lip rejuvenation, Fascia, or Restylance to patients. Patients must consult with their surgeons and educate themselves about each of the options to understand which one will best suite them.

Risk

The risk involved in this surgery can vary.  There is the possibility of being allergic to the synthetic injectable filler that your doctor used.  The injectable filler might cause some other undesirable effects to the body as well.  After the surgery there is also the possibility of you having some swelling and redness of the skin. There is also the risk of the lips bleeding.  The lips also have the tendency to feel numb.  If the injectable filler is not injected properly there might be some hard spots located on your lips.

Post Procedure Treatment and Benefits

In most cases, there is redness and swelling at the point of the injection. This swelling is likely to remain for 5 days or so.  There is also the possibility of you having some itching around the area of the point of injection.  The recovery time is short and in few days you will be ready to face the world with a beautiful set of lips.  The doctor will present you with medications to use after the procedure to ensure the lips heal well and also to numb the pain. You must follow the prescription just as the doctor ordered.  If the medication does not seem to relieve the pain you are feeling or if the redness and swellings remains after the period of time, you should then consider paying your doctor a visit.

Questions to Ask your Plastic Surgeon

1.  What are the risks that are involved with Lip Augmentation surgery?

2.  What is the procedure like?

3.  Can I see before and after pictures of previous surgeries?

4.  How soon will you be able to resume your normal activities?

5.  Would my health care plan pay or reimburse the expenses?

6.  Where and how will you perform my surgery?

7.  What are the risks associated with this procedure?

8.  Where will I be transferred to after surgery?

9.  Will I be given medication after surgery? What kind? 

10. What is the removal process for dressings, bandages and/or stitches? 

11. When do I return for my follow-up visit?