Getting Started with Lip Augmentation
We’ve noticed that some people who are quite bothered by what they view as thin, stingy lips are still not comfortable with the notion of lip augmentation. New York women—and some men—who consult us about how to get a more generous, sensual mouth have many questions related to what they can expect after the procedure and how to ensure nothing goes wrong.
We think we know why. The same print, broadcast and online media that so often celebrate one film star’s full lips are quick to criticize another’s “trout pout.” And heaven forbid the paparazzi catch wind of a case of botched lip augmentation—photos of a grossly swollen, bumpy, lopsided mouth will turn up everywhere.
Even without media hoopla, it’s natural to be concerned about the results of a cosmetic procedure, particularly when the target is your mouth. After performing lip enhancement for many patients here in Manhattan, we have some input we can offer.
If You’re an Older Patient
Lips tend to get thinner with age; it’s as simple as that. Therefore, many of our New York lip augmentation consultations are with older women. These patients are interested in making a change, but they also worry about feeling embarrassed afterward. We often suggest we inject a small amount of filler in both the top and bottom lip—just enough to give them a hint of what could be, but not enough for partners or friends to notice. Then, we can plan another session or two whenever they’re ready to gradually build fuller lips.
If You’re Concerned About Looking Natural
You might be thinking, “Who doesn’t want to look natural?” To be honest, some people prefer an extra generous look for breasts, bums and even lips. But we find that most women and men who want a more attractive mouth also want to look like a real person, not like a caricature.
Our approach to lip augmentation is to add volume and shape. We inject a filler in the central portion of the upper lip, just along the border. Then we add two smaller “hillocks” on the border of the lower lip, creating a natural cradle for the upper lip. When the patient’s mouth is closed, the look is full, smooth and normal. For many patients we also accentuate the lips with some filler along the white line and even in the groove between nose and mouth as final sensual touches.
If Your Goals Range Beyond the Mouth
To complement more generous lips, perhaps you would like to address some of the signs of aging of your lower face. If you have small, vertical lines around your mouth, these can be smoothed with a mild chemical peel or filled with Belotero or Restylane Silk. Nasolabial folds, or “parentheses” around the mouth, and turned down corners can also be much improved with Juvederm or Restylane too.
If You Have Other Concerns
Since lip augmentation is still a relatively new procedure on the menu of cosmetic treatments, many people have a long list of questions. You may be thinking about some of these:
• Will it hurt?
— Almost all fillers contain numbing elements, so pain is minimal.
• Who should administer fillers for the lips?
— Best options include board certified plastic surgeons, facial plastic surgeons or other medically trained professionals with lip augmentation experience. Avoid medical spa personnel when it comes to your mouth.
• Since fillers don’t last forever, would it be better to go with implants?
— Lip implants are permanent, and it’s not at all unusual for patients to be less than content with them. People tend to complain that implanted material doesn’t look and feel natural, and many ultimately elect minor surgery to have it removed. We suggest patients avoid implants or at very least start with fillers.
We perform lip augmentation in New York quite often—it’s a popular procedure here. If you live close by or would like to visit The Big Apple, we would be happy to talk with you! To contact us you can call 212-570-6080 or send us an email.
