Aging, heredity and lifestyle factors such as smoking all may contribute to decreased lip fullness and wrinkling. Lip augmentation can smooth out the fine lines that go from the lip to the surrounding skin and can plump-up and accentuate the lips. Lip augmentation is often performed with other facial rejuvenation surgeries. There are a variety of new lip specific hyaluronic acid fillers that can be injected to create natural, fuller lips.
If you’re considering lip augmentation the information provided will give you a basic understanding of the procedure, but it can’t answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. For more information, please view the “Frequently Asked Questions” or visit his “Resource Library” for related articles, websites and video clips.
Am I a good candidate for the procedure?
Your visit with Dr. Rohrich will determine if you are a good candidate. Lip augmentation can be used to enhance a woman’s lips, rejuvenate aging lips and can also correct asymmetries from reconstructive surgery. Before you decide to have lip augmentation done, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with Dr. Rohrich.
What should I expect from my consultation?
During the consultation, you will be asked about the appearance of your lips and anything else that you feel is important. You will learn about the procedure, its limitations and risks, and discuss your needs and concerns. Dr. Rohrich will explain which surgical techniques and fillers that are most appropriate for you. He will carefully analyze your face and lips to make them proportionate and aesthetically pleasing. After your consultation a photographer will take photographs for your medical record and you will meet with Dr. Rohrich’s patient coordinator to discuss fees and scheduling dates. In most cases, lip augmentation can be performed in a pain free manner as an in-office procedure the same day as your initial consultation.
Dr. Rohrich will review your medical history and check for conditions that may cause problems during or after the procedure. You should provide any information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information.
What are my augmentation options?
Techniques for lip augmentation vary and Dr. Rohrich will determine the best method to be used.
Hyaluronic acid fillers (i.e. Juvederm Ultra Plus XC and Restylane Silk for example) are an excellent way to create a more natural mouth and fuller lips. During treatment the crystal-clear gel is injected into the skin in tiny amounts with a very thin needle into the inside of the upper and/or lower lip. This is often combined with a marking of the vermilion border (lip line) by injecting the gel along the lip line. The lines that goe up to towards the nose (philtrum ridges) can be defined by injecting the gel in the lines. To achieve an optimal result a combination of these steps is often used. The gel then gives natural lip volume and smoothes out the wrinkles.
Clinical trials show that hyaluronic acid filler in this area are effective for 6-12 months after the treatment of wrinkles and lip augmentation.
How is the procedure performed?
If lip augmentation is the only procedure performed, the procedure can be performed in-office. If it is performed in conjunction with other procedures such as a facelift or laser resurfacing, general anesthesia is used. Medications can be administered for your comfort and to lessen the anxiety if need be.