Choices for Lip Augmentation
| So, you want fuller, sexier, poutier lips? Dr. Abrams explains the many choices available for Lip Augmentation. |
The desire to have a fuller appearance to the lips is one of the most frequently heard requests in the office of Dr. Harvey Abrams, a leading Los Angeles dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon. The mouth and lips in particular are a source of expression, sensuality and touch. As such, a number of methods have been developed to bring the promise of fuller, more youthful lips to both men and women of all ages.
The methods used to augment the lips can be divided into two groups; temporary and permanent. They are also divided into those that are performed through simple injection of various filler substances directly into the lips and procedures which are more surgical requiring the placement of a permanent implant material into the lips or the surgical reconstruction of the lip.
It is important to understand that each method has it's advantages and disadvantages. According to Dr. Abrams, it is important to appreciate that not all cosmetic surgeons are equally experienced or talented in creating an aesthetically proportioned lip complex. You need to do careful homework in researching their experience and interest.
Dr. Abrams, who has been augmenting lips for over 12 years, stresses that the method used to augment lips must be matched to the needs of the individual patient. For the first-time patient, an appropriate, temporary filler might be a strong consideration before proceeding with a permanent technique in order to ensure satisfaction with the enhanced look of the lips. For others who are ready for their full-lip look, a discussion of a more permanent option for lip augmentation is in order.
After careful evaluation, Dr. Abrams prefers injectable techniques to surgical procedures for lip augmentation. While most techniques involve some element of risk, according to Dr. Abrams the risks of scarring and infection are significantly reduced with the injectable techniques, while providing an excellent aesthetic result. Today's injectable fillers are appropriate to add fullness to the lips for general enhancement, to restore the lip line effect due to aging, and correct asymmetry.
Dr. Abrams, in evaluating the various products currently in use and those in development, looks at various factors when choosing the product best suited for the patient: products and procedures that have a proven safety record, those that give a natural look and feel to the lips, one that will last for an acceptable period of time, cost effectiveness, and one that allows the patient to return to their usual social and occupational activities within a few days. Surgical techniques do not conform well to these criteria.
Fat transfers, using one's own fat taken from another body part such as the abdomen or thigh, are a popular type of filler. The ability to take the fat, transplant it evenly throughout the lip varies greatly from individual to individual and may leave the lip appearing asymmetric and lumpy. Is also requires a minor surgical procedure to extract the fat that is to be injected. Because of the unpredictability of the results, Dr. Abrams has abandoned this technique.
Collagen, Dermalogen, Cymetra, and Fascian are all temporary fillers derived from cow or human tissue. All are effective in plumping up the appearance of lips for several months and require repeated injections to maintain the full appearance. Allergic reactions have been reported and concern over transmission of viral particles has arisen.
The newest filler that has captured media attention is Restylane. A high-tech process allows bioengineered bacteria to produce hyaluronic acid, a normal constituent of human dermis. Restylane lasts twice as long as Collagen has a very low incidence of allergy. It plimps up the lips and softens the creases, known as the nasolabial folds, to provide a younger, more supple look to the mouth-cheek complex.
Silikon 1000, an FDA approved silicone based
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