Plumping up the lips through augmentation is generally done for cosmetic and aesthetic reasons, or to correct a bothersome physical imperfection. Some people desire fuller lips to combat the looks and effects of aging, as we often lose lip fullness with time. Others simply want to feel more confident and improve their appearance. Injectable lip fillers of different varieties have been developed to help resolve a multitude of issues.
Your first order of business before you undergo lip augmentation is to enlist the services of a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in aesthetic treatments. At Aristocrat, Dr. Kevin Tehrani is one of New York City’s top plastic surgeons and his experience, along with the combined experience of Aristocrat’s nursing staff and medical estheticians, will help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for every patient to create the healthiest and most beautiful results.
Injectables and what they can do for you
There are many injectable lip filler products on the market today. Here are some products that Aristocrat carries, specially designed to plump up lips:
JUVEDERM®: Touted as the “next generation” of cosmetic injectables, its gel gently smooths wrinkles and folds around the mouth and nose to restore a youthful volume to the face. Made with hyaluronic acid, a natural substance found in the body that works with collagen and elastin to provide volume and support to the skin, Juvéderm is especially effective on smile lines and “parentheses” (nasolabial folds) that run from the bottom of the nose to the sides of the mouth. Treatments only take about 15 minutes with immediate results and no downtime. Your results will typically last about 6-9 months. That said, individual results and experiences may vary.
JUVEDERM® VOLBELLA® XC: A definitive treatment for signs of aging and volume loss in the lips and around the mouth, Volbella is one of the most state-of-the-art and unique dermal fillers developed for patients. Aristocrat is proud to offer patients the chance to accentuate their lips and soften lines around the mouth known as “smoker’s lines” and “marionette lines.”
RESTYLANE SILK: A natural cosmetic injectable that’s the first and only FDA-approved product designed specifically to enhance the lips and smooth lines around the mouth.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the following fillers for use in injectable treatments:
- Calcium hydroxylapatite (Radiesse): a temporary gel solution that lasts for 18 months.
- Collagen: a temporary material that lasts for up to four months.
- Hyaluronic acid: a temporary material that loses its effect after 6 to 12 months.
- Poly-L-lactic acid: a man-made material that lasts about two years (Sculptra, Sculptra Aesthetic).
- Polymethylmethacrylate beads: the only permanent type of dermal filler available.
What you can expect from injectable procedures
The beauty of lip augmentation procedures is that they can be performed in the convenience of Aristocrat’s private and luxurious MedSpa, where we bridge the gap between the medical profession and the spa experience to deliver the finest treatments available.
Lip injectables such as fillers are pretty effective in what they do. But each one will give you a different result. Injectable dermal fillers are the most commonly used products for lip augmentations. They often contain substances similar to hyaluronic acid, which is a natural substance found in the body and helps increase the volume of lips.
Collagen was once a very common dermal filler in injectables, but is used less often today. The options used today are safer with longer-lasting results. Injectables using fat and implants are other options that can add lip volume, but are used less frequently now due to the variance in results and the greater risks for side effects.
What you can expect during injectable procedures
Lip augmentation procedures using injectables, except for fat injections, can be performed quickly in your board-certified plastic surgeon’s office with little to no downtime. This is because the procedure involves some liposuction of fat from another part of the body before the lip augmentation can be performed.
Before the injectable is given, an agent or topical to numb the area is applied to minimize any discomfort. Nerve-blocking injections are sometimes given before a treatment to numb the lips completely. The anesthetic is similar to what a dentist uses to numb your mouth. After the areas for the injection(s) are carefully marked, the filler substance is injected into the lips using very fine needles.
What you can expect following your procedure
After you’ve undergone your lip augmentation treatment, you may be given ice to apply to the area that can help ease discomfort and control swelling. Firm pressure should not be put on the area however. You should notice a difference in your lips immediately after your procedure, and once fully healed, the lips should feel natural.
What you can expect at Aristocrat
Our goal is to bring you the highest level of patient satisfaction. We are here to help you reach all your cosmetic and aesthetic surgery goals. Our facilities are equipped with the latest and safest technologies in the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery.
We invite you to visit us at our MedAesthetics facility where you can relax knowing you’re in the best hands. Our aestheticians and medical staff are here to make you feel safe, comfortable, and educated about your skin and body. Our cosmetic injectables range from popular ones such as Botox and Restylane, Juvederm, and more. Call to set up an appointment for a consultation today!