FAQS on Lip Augmentation

What is lip augmentation?

Lip augmentation encompasses a broad range of procedures from simple injections to the surgical implantation of permanent implants. Temporary injected fillers used for lip augmentation include a wide variety of natural and synthetic compounds (see section on dermal fillers) such as bovine (cow) collagen, human (foreskin) collagen (Cosmoplast), human (cadaver) collagen (Cymetra), hyaluronic acid (Restylane), and fat. Permanent fillers for lip augmentation include silicone and polymethylacrylate (Artecoll). Implants are a more permanent method of lip augmentation and require surgery. Most of the implants are made of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) and can be removed if needed. Fillers and implants will be discussed separately.

What are fillers used for during lip enhancement?

Lip augmentation using fillers is an elective procedure and is used to add volume to the lips.

What does lip augmentation feel like?

The filler is injected into the lip and can be painful so anesthesia and pain medications are often used.

How long does the lip augmentation procedure last?

The lip augmentation procedure can last from five to thirty minutes, depending on the number of areas being treated.

How will my lips feel after lip augmentation?

After the lip augmentation procedure, you may experience some pain and swelling. This usually lasts a few days and in rare cases, the swelling and redness can persist for up to two weeks.

When will I see results?

Your lips will be bigger after the procedure because of the swelling and the filler. You will see the results of the filler alone in a few days after the swelling has subsided.

How long before I can return to my normal activities?

You can most likely return to your normal activities in a few days after the swelling subsides.

How long do the results last?

The temporary fillers in the lip last 3-6 months at best.

What are the risks of lip fillers?

Each filler has its own risk. In general, the main risk of animal-derived collagen fillers is an allergic reaction and even people who have tested negative to the pre-allergy test required before treatment sometimes have allergic reactions. In most cases however, the human-derived collagen fillers appear to be well tolerated. There are theoretical risks of transmission of disease from donor tissues although an extensive screening of the tissues is performed. The newer, synthetic, injected fillers such as Restylane, Perlane and Hylaform reportedly have minimal side effects however some patients have reported prolonged swelling and inflammation along with nodules at the injection sites with Perlane. The permanent fillers (Artecoll and silicone) carry several risks, including necrosis, granuloma (a hard, bumpy scar), severe inflammation, extrusion and infection. You and your physician need to discuss the risks and benefits of the different options if you choose to have lip augmentation with fillers. 

Lip Implantation There are many kinds of lip implants available today including Advanta, AlloDerm, Dermis grafts, Fascia Grafts, Gore-Tex, SoftForm, Tendon Grafts, and UltraSoft. Gore-Tex, SoftForm, UltraSoft and Advanta are made of a foam-like material called expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). Advanta is porous, allowing your own tissue to grow within the implant. Alloderm is an acellular collagen material made from a human donor. The material is purified, freeze dried, than re-hydrated prior to use. The AlloDerm is placed into the lips and integrates into the surrounding tissue as the body grows and heals around the graft. Long term studies are in progress to evaluate how long Alloderm implants last.

Why are lip augmentation procedures performed

Lip augmentation is an elective procedure used to add more permanent volume and definition to the lips

How is lip implants performed?

You are first injected with a local anesthetic, similar to those you might receive at a dentist’s office, for pain. After numbness takes effect, incisions are made at each corner of the mouth (4 totals) and the implant is inserted into the lip through the incisions. The implant is trimmed, the incision sites are sutured, and the wounds are dressed. Your physician may use absorbing or non-absorbing suture material and there is usually minimal bleeding.

How will my lips feel after the augmentation procedure?

You will experience some swelling and post-operative pain for which your physician can provide pain medication and you may experience numbness as well. It takes about one week for the swelling to subside and there may be pain with pressure for up to three weeks. You may also have difficulty eating and drinking at first. Bruising is usually minimal. You will have your sutures removed in about 5 to 10 days after the procedure.

How long do implants last?

Most of the implants are considered permanent. Alloderm is relatively new and its duration is still being evaluated.

What are the risks of lip implants?

Infection is a common but treatable risk. Other complications of the removable implants (Gore-Tex, SoftForm, UltraSoft and Advanta) are less common but include migration, extrusion, decreased mobility, and irritation from a poor fitting implant. The hollow implants (UltraSoft) allow your own tissues to grow into them which decrease the risk of infection, rejection, and mobility however they cannot be removed if there is a complication. All implants carry the risk of permanent discoloration, scarring, and deformity. If you decide on implants, you and your physician will need to discuss the risks and benefits in detail.