Lip augmentation is a type of cosmetic procedure that can give you fuller, plumper lips. The most commonly used method of lip augmentation today is an injectable dermal filler. Here’s what you need to know about lip augmentation before you decide to have the procedure.
There are many types of dermal fillers that can be injected in your lips and around your mouth, but the most common type of fillers, used today, are products that contain substances, similar to hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance, found in the body, that helps increase the volume of your lips. Collagen, which was once the most common dermal filler, is used less often today, because the newer options are safer and the effects last longer. Fat injections and implants are another method, which is not used much today, because the results vary and there’s a greater risk of side effects.
Hyaluronic acid fillers can improve the appearance of your lips, by adding shape, structure and volume. The effects usually last around six months and after that more injections are needed to keep the volume of your lips. There are several different hyaluronic acid fillers, available on the market today. All of them are injected the same way and give you similar results. And they all contain lidocaine, which is a local anesthetic.
Once injected, the gel in the filler helps shape and support the tissue of the lips. The amount of the substance injected can be controlled, so the doctor can determine how much lip volume is created. The injections may be given gradually, until the desired results are achieved. Any bumps and lumps that form, dissolve easily and there’s less bruising and swelling, compared to other dermal fillers. The results are not permanent, but they are reasonably long-lasting. Hyaluronic acid fillers are unlikely to cause an allergic reaction, because they are made from substances, similar to those found in the body. However, if you are allergic to lidocaine, you should tell your doctor in advance.
Before the procedure, a topical numbing agent may be applied to ease any discomfort. Sometimes, injections may be given, to completely numb the lips, before the treatment. This is similar to the anesthetic injections you get at the dentist to numb your mouth. After marking the areas to be injected carefully, very fine needles are used to inject the substance to your lips. After the injection, ice may be given to ease the discomfort and help control the swelling. Be careful, because no firm pressure should be put on the treated area. Avoid lipstick or any other lip products immediately after the procedure. You will be able to notice the difference immediately and after you have healed, your lips should feel natural.
Side effects of hyaluronic acid fillers are temporary and should last only a few days. Bleeding may occur from the injection sites. There also will be swelling and bruising, and the site of the injection will be red and tender. More serious side effects include severe and prolonged swelling and bruising, that may last up to 10 days, lip asymmetry, lumps and irregularities, infection, injection into a blood vessel could cause tissue loss. Ulceration, scarring or stiffening of the lip may also occur, or an allergic reaction, causing redness, swelling and itching around the lips. You should call your doctor immediately, if you experience any of there severe side effects.
To know if lip augmentation is right for you, first you need to ask yourself why you want to modify your lips. Unless you truly want to modify your appearance, you shouldn’t undergo this procedure. Do not consider lip augmentation to make someone else happy or to fit some ideal image you imagine at the moment. Also, it is very important to have realistic expectations about the outcome. Your doctor will discuss with you the pros and cons of the lip augmentation procedure and help you decide on the product and technique. Before undergoing a lip augmentation procedure, make sure you are healthy. Tell your doctor about any conditions you may have had in the past, such as a cold sore. Also inform the doctor about any known allergies you have or medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements.
A lip augmentation procedure may be performed by a plastic surgeon, a dermatologist or a cosmetic facial surgeon. Find a specialist, who is qualified and experienced, and one whom you can trust. Lip augmentation poses real risks, especially when done by someone, who is inexperienced. Do your homework. Ask about the doctor’s education and training, see before-and-after photographs of other patients the doctor has treated. If you are not happy with the seen results, consider getting a second opinion.
The team of Fashion Belief reminds you that beauty should come from within. Do not undergo any procedures, unless absolutely necessary. Learn to love yourself and be happy with what you have. You can always use some makeup tricks to enhance your natural beauty.
Comments
comments
Tags: doctor, lip augmentation, lips, procedure