An ABC report in February let us know that the statement lip is the latest craze in our quest to look younger. While some turn to the trendiest lipstick shade to achieve the look, others know there is more to a statement lip than mere color. To truly tap into the “fountain of youth,” a cosmetic procedure is in order. Lip augmentation is a relatively quick and easy way to plump up your pout and get your luscious lips ready for the latest lipstick trends.
What is Lip Augmentation?
Today’s lip augmentation typically involve injections of either a synthetic substance (dermal fillers) or the patient’s own fat (autologous fat transfer). The choice will depend on whether you have fat to remove from another area and are willing to undergo a recovery period to heal from the fat reduction procedure. Dermal fillers offer instant results without downtime, but the results are temporary and will need to be repeated to maintain positive results. Many patients opt for dermal fillers first, to see if they like the results of lip augmentation before moving to more permanent procedures.
Benefits of Hyaluronic Acid Fillers
One of the best options for lip augmentation today is an injectable dermal filler containing hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally produced by the body that keeps skin soft and supple. As we age, our bodies produce less hyaluronic acid, leading to loose skin, the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles and thin lips. Replacing hyaluronic acid gives support to the underlying skin structure, plumping up lips from the inside out.
The best hyaluronic acid fillers for lip augmentation are smooth formulations that can offer subtle results. Both Juvederm and Restylane are hyaluronic acid-based fillers that have proven to be highly effective in lip enhancement. Results of these fillers are evident immediately following treatment and continue to improve in the following days. If you don’t like the results, another injection can quickly reverse the results of your initial procedure. If you do like the results, you will probably enjoy them for 6-8 months before a touch-up treatment is required.
Fat Transfer for More Permanent Results
If you like the look of your newly augmented lips, you can move to a fat transfer procedure to provide you with a more permanent option. This procedure takes fat from one area of the body, like the midsection, hips or thighs, and places it directly into the lips. Fat transfer offers the dual benefits of sculpting one area of the body while enhancing another, and the results last much longer than injections of a dermal filler.
If you are looking for a way to achieve a more youthful appearance, lip augmentation may be the way to go. This procedure is performed by Dr. Andrews using fat transfer or a variety of dermal filler formulations. To learn more about the procedure, contact Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery at 319-800-6877.
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