Lip Augmentation
Lips are among the most prominent and expressive features on the face, and many people want them to be fuller and more sensual so they can look their best. Unfortunately, normal aging creates a continuous reduction in lip volume and shape, so they can appear to be disappearing! At Ageless Impressions – Plastic Surgery Institute, Dr. Mark E. Richards offers several options to give his patients’ lips a boost. The results of our board certified plastic surgeon‘s chosen methods tend to last longer than those of the older collagen injection products and give his patients better returns on their investments.
What are lip fillers?
There are a few ways to enhance the shape, volume, and contour of the lips. The more easily performed options makes use of products like Restylane® Refyne or Defyne or JUVÉDERM®. These injectable methods of lip enhancement use a natural substance called hyaluronic acid that has been purified to ensure that the body’s immune system does not reject it. Both have the added benefit of stimulating natural production of collagen in the area where they are inserted, thus prolonging the life of the treatment. Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® treatments take very short periods of time, and the patient can leave immediately afterwards with only very minor discomfort.
The second lip enhancement method which used to be regularly employed by Dr. Richards is known as AlloDerm®. This product comes in the form of small sheets of collagen that can be threaded into the lips via small incisions. It is more invasive than Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® injections and requires a two-week recovery period. The newer Restylane® and JUVÉDERM® products have made the insertion of AlloDerm® much less desirable on a cost and recovery basis. Other methods of lipenhacement include threading permanent silicone rods into the lips, with their attendant risks and complications.
*Individual Results May Vary
Frequently Asked Questions About Lip Fillers and Enhancement
As a resource for our patients, Dr. Richards has provided answers to commonly asked questions about lip augmentation. If you would like to learn more, please schedule a consultation.
What are the differences between lip fillers and other lip enhancement options?
Lip fillers are dermal fillers that can temporarily enhance the appearance of the lips by adding volume and improving the contour. The amount of time the filler lasts will depend on the type used and your own unique experience.
What are the pros and cons of lip augmentation?
Many people are born with insufficient lip volume for their aesthetic preferences, and some individuals lose lip fullness over time. Whether genetics or the natural process of aging is to blame, lip augmentation can provide noticeable and natural-looking enhancement of this feature. Lip fillers can be applied quickly and with little discomfort. If you like the effect, injections every six to 12 months can be used to maintain the result. Each type of filler offers unique advantages, and we can help you determine the best approach for your needs and desired outcome during your initial consultation.
Does lip enhancement cause scarring?
You should not experience any lasting scarring as a result of lip injections. We use ultra-fine needles to deliver the dermal filler into a series of locations on the lips.
How much does lip augmentation cost?
The cost for lip augmentation will depend on the technique used and the details of your unique treatment plan. The total price of lip fillers will be based on how much of the formula is needed to achieve your expressed goals. We will review the estimated cost of your program prior to beginning, so you will be well-informed and able to make the best decision for your lifestyle and objectives.
If you contact us today to set up a face-to-face consultation with Dr. Richards, he can help you determine which of these procedures is best suited to giving you the luscious lips you desire.