lips are a very important feature of the face. Whenever we are talking to someone, either consciously or sub-consciously we notice and evaluate their lips. Full lips are a sign of sensuality and youth. There are numerous options today to create soft, natural-appearing lips.
They key point is: NATURAL. Most people do not want others to know they had their lips enhanced. There are several natural proportions that need to be followed so that the upper lips and lower lips look good together.
In general, the upper lip should be 1/3 while the lower lip should be 2/3 of the total size of both lips. A curve and "natural pout" can be created to lift and bring out the border of the lips with the skin, known as the "vermillo-cutaneous" border.
Another important point is that lips must FEEL NATURAL. If material is placed that takes the sensation away or makes the lips lumpy or hard, this can be very traumatic for patients.
Here are some effective, yet natural looking and feeling treatment options:
Hyaluronic Acid Gels (a substance we all naturally have in our bodies) - Restylane Perlane, Juvederm - These are great and my preferred in office lip enhancers. If a tiny nerve block is used, along with ice, the discomfort is minimal if at all!
Fat Injection - Fat transfer is a very natural and great operative technique. When getting a surgical facial rejuvenation (facelift, eyelid lift etc.), this can easily be done at the same time. Fat can cause swelling for a bit longer than hyaluronic acids. In general, about 50-70% of the fat volume lives and becomes a part of your body.
Surgical Lifts - Many times the lips can be lifted directly, either with an incision near the nose, inside the lips, or right on the upper lip border.
Alloderm - an engineered skin/soft tissue substite that can be rolled and inserted into the lips. Although, with the above options, the role for this has diminished
