Lip augmentation is an invasive procedure which is primarily performed for enhancing the shape, form and the look of your lips. Lip augmentation is performed in healthy individuals who for cosmetic reasons wish to change the way their lips appears. Lip augmentation is an invasive procedure which might require injection of lip fillers (synthetic agents used for giving lips a fuller appearance) or implantation of a fat graft from your own body. Lip augmentation is a cosmetic procedure hence it is essential to have realistic expectations from the same, and that it can just enhance the appearance of the lips and cannot transform their natural shape and form.
When is a lip augmentation procedure recommended ?
A lip augmentation is a cosmetic procedure which is indicated in individuals (men and women) who wish to enhance the appearance of their lips which due to genetic or acquired conditions. The fillers and the fat grafting used in lip augmentation procedure can slightly transform the way the lips appear.
When is a lip augmentation procedure not advised ?
A lip augmentation procedure is not recommended when the lips are subjected to a deformity post any traumatic injury. Lip augmentation can also not be performed when you are affected with infections, ulcers or any systemic conditions like uncontrolled diabetes and hypertension. It is always advised to consult a physician who can recommend you to a plastic surgeon who specializes in head and neck cosmetic procedures before deciding to go ahead with a lip augmentation surgery.
How do you prepare for a lip augmentation procedure ?
Once you decide on getting a lip augmentation surgery done, your treating surgeon will do a complete general physical examination including a detailed history taking, investigations to rule out systemic diseases and if you are on any medication which should be either stopped or tapered before the procedure. The preparation might also include preoperative photographs to compare the outcome of the procedure.
Does a lip augmentation procedure require anaesthesia ?
Yes, most of the lip augmentation procedures are done under the influence of local anaesthesia. General anaesthesia and sedation is rarely used and its always advised to consult your treating surgeon about the type of anaesthesia that could be suitable for your condition.
How is a lip augmentation procedure performed ?
A lip augmentation is performed by two methods.
- Lip augmentation with filler: This is one of the conventional and most commonly used methods of getting a lip augmentation, where injectable fillers (primarily hyaluronic acid, available in commercial forms) are used to give a fuller look to the lips while maintaining their volume and structure. Earlier collagen was used but now with the advent of newer hyaluronic acid fillers, they are no longer used or recommended. The injectable fillers are not permanent and the procedure requires to be repeated between six months to one year. These injectable fillers are injected with a desired gauge needle in the areas which need lip plumping.
- Lip augmentation with fat grafting: This is a rather new and long lasting procedure where a graft derived from your body is implanted in the lips. This is a more elaborate procedure and may require surgical incisions at the corner of your lips for the grafting of fat. Certain artificial graft materials are also available to give better and long lasting results nowadays, ask your treating surgeon of the type of lip augmentation which will suit your health and your requirement. The lip augmentation is performed as a chairside procedure or in the outpatient clinic and takes about one to two hours. It might or might not require placement of surgical incisions on the lips.
What precautions need to be taken after a lip augmentation procedure ?
After the procedure is over, your surgeon will either bandage the surgical site or will ask you to apply medicinal ointment to aid in the healing process. It is strictly advised to avoid smoking and any activity which requires the lips to move in a rigorous manner as it may lead to shifting of the filler material of the graft. The surgeon will also advise you to consume soft foods such as curd, oatmeal, jelly and ice- cream to help in healing period. The recovery after a lip augmentation procedure takes about two to three weeks and could take longer or shorter depending upon your overall health.
What are the risks and complications associated with a lip augmentation procedure ?
The complications could be a side effect of the anaesthesia or the procedure itself. Allergic reaction to the fillers are very common and hence it is advised to get a test dose before getting the lip augmentation done. Scarring could occur if you are more prone to it or if the incisions are given at the vermillion border of the lip. Other complications could include swelling, bleeding and infection at the site of the procedure.
What is the outcome of a lip augmentation procedure ?
Lip augmentation is a rather less invasive procedure of giving a fuller appearance to healthy lips which appear wrinkled or very thin, or have a poor outline either due to a genetic trait or due aging. Since it is a cosmetic procedure, it cannot primarily change the structure of your lips, hence a realistic expectation should be the approach when you are consulting a specialist to know if and what kind of lip augmentation could be suitable for you.
How to find cosmetic surgeons for lip augmentation procedure ?
Now you can find cosmetic surgeons for lip augmentation procedure from different hospitals and destinations on a single platform, Hinfoways. You can avail opinions from multiple cosmetic surgeons, cost estimates for lip augmentation procedure from different hospitals, compare things and then choose a cosmetic surgeon for lip augmentation procedure.
Find and choose a cosmetic surgeon for lip augmentation procedure on Hinfoways. Make an informed choice.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
