Lip augmentation – what do I need to know? In Toronto, canada

Posted on September 15, 2015 in Cosmetic Surgery

WHAT IS INJECTED?

Lip augmentation is most commonly performed using hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers. HA is a substance that occurs within natural body tissues. Connective tissue is made up of a high percentage of HA.

DOES IT HURT?

Lip augmentation is performed through a series of small injections. Topical anesthetic (EMLA cream) may be applied up to an hour prior to the procedure, which may reduce associated discomfort. The HA filler also has local freezing mixed into the solution to improve tolerance. Following the procedure, patients should expect minimal discomfort.

HOW LONG SHOULD RESULTS LAST?

Lip augmentation using HA fillers may last up to 12 months when injected within and around the lip region. The Vycross line of Juvederm products (Allergan Canada) was recently approved in Canada, although these fillers have been used in Europe for several years with promising results. These products have been shown to last longer due to differences in how the particles are linked together. Juvederm Volbella is a specific type of HA filler which demonstrates long-lasting results up to one year. It may be injected within the lips to increase volume and around the lip region to soften the appearance of rhytids (wrinkles). Studies have shown natural and smooth results based on European research.  Faster resorption has been found for previous generations of HA fillers around the lips given the amount of movement that occurs during various activities — eating, talking, kissing.

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON COMPLICATIONS OF LIP AUGMENTATION?

Potential complications will be reviewed in a comprehensive manner prior to lip augmentation. The most common complications are transient and minor, including pain on injection, bleeding, bruising, and swelling. Any time a procedure is performed on two sides of the body, there is risk of asymmetry. You will have access to a hand-held mirror during the procedure and will be encouraged to view the results periodically to confirm your satisfaction and desired volume. To reduce bruising and swelling after injection, it is recommended to apply cold compresses intermittently for the first day or so as tolerated.

WHAT IF I’M INTERESTED IN A MORE PERMANENT SOLUTION?

For patients who are pleased with the outcome of HA fillers for lip augmentation and are seeking more permanent results, fat grafting is an option. This is a surgical procedure performed most commonly under local anesthetic and sedation if needed. Extra fat is removed from other body regions (abdomen, most commonly) through small volume liposuction. The fat is then prepared and re-injected into the lips for desired augmentation. Some of the injected fat may be resorbed by your body during early healing. Once a new blood supply has been established for the injected fat within the lips, results should be long-lasting.

Please contact us if interested in discussing lip augmentation in more detail.  Dr. Power will carefully consider your aesthetic goals and clinical presentation to formulate a treatment plan that is right for you.