Non-Surgical - Lips & Lines

The size, shape and definition of lips can be enhanced by the injection or surgical insertion of biological or synthetic products. Injectable fillers can also improve the appearance of facial lines

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Plump, pouty, well-defined lips are a sign of youth and, for many, an expression of sensuality. As we age the underlying tissues that keep our skin looking youthful and plumped up begin to break down, often leaving laugh lines, smile lines, crow's feet or facial creases. Lips become thinner and lose volume, projection and colour. Our faces, in particular, show the effects of gravity, sun exposure and years of facial muscle movement, such as smiling, chewing and squinting.

Soft-tissue fillers, most commonly injectable collagen or Hyaluronic acid, can help fill in lines and creases, temporarily restoring a smoother, more youthful-looking appearance. When injected beneath the skin, these fillers can plump up creased and sunken areas of the face. They can also add fullness to the lips and cheeks. Injectable fillers may be used alone or in conjunction with resurfacing or recontouring procedures. Most temporary soft tissue injectables function in essentially the same ways (quick to perform, can be topped up, safe, last for months, few side effects), but there are some minor differences. Permanent injectables and Perma Lip implants can last indefinitely. Side effects of all the injectables can include short term swelling, redness, bruising, itching, lumpiness and soreness.

The number of injectables on offer for improving lips and lines are numerous and always increasing, although the 'optimal' injectable material has yet to be invented. We prefer to steer patients towards options that have long track records of safety and effectiveness, though the desire for 'what's new' is a strong one. Patients should seek advice from doctors who offer options that give maximal, predictable results with minimal and well-understood side effects. What can and should be done in your case will depend on a consultation with your doctor.

YOUR OPTIONS

Injectables can help fill out deep facial wrinkles, creases and furrows, sunken cheeks, skin depressions and some types of scars. They can also add a fuller, more sensuous look to the lips. Injectables are usually not sufficient to correct severe surface wrinkles on the face, such as the multiple vertical 'lipstick lines' that sometimes form around the mouth. In this case, your plastic surgeon may suggest a resurfacing technique (see SCAR REVISION, LASER RESURFACING, SKIN MANAGEMENT). Again, deep folds in the face or brow may be more effectively treated using surgery (See face lift & brow lift). Injectables are sometimes used in conjunction with facial surgery procedures but cannot change facial contours as surgery can. Keep in mind that your plastic surgeon is a specialist who can offer you the full gamut of the most advanced treatments including cosmetic surgery, refinishing techniques, laser therapy, injectables and other fillers. You and your surgeon must agree together what procedure or combination of procedures is best for you.

TYPES OF FILLER

There are three main types:

Non Permanent

Hyaluronic Acid (Restylane®, Juvederm®, Perlane®)
Semi Permanent

Radiesse®, Sculptra®
Permanent Injectables and Implants

Polyacrylamides (Bio Alcamid), Perma Lip implants

WHAT TO EXPECT

The improvements that non permanent injectable fillers make may last only a few weeks with some individuals; in others, they may continue indefinitely. Age, genetic background, skin quality and lifestyle, as well as the site of the injection, may all play a role in the injected material's staying power. However, the precise reason for the variation of results among patients has yet to be identified. Some individuals are more receptive to one substance than another; others may find that neither substance produces long-lasting results. The most important fact to remember about injectable fillers such as Hyaluronic Acid is that the results are not permanent. Injected material is eventually metabolized by the body. The results may be maintained for 6-8 months, even up to a year (4-6 months for lip enhancement). Researchers believe that age, genetic background, skin quality and lifestyle as well as the injected body site may all play a role in the injected material's "staying power".

RISKS WITH INJECTABLES

Provided a qualified plastic surgeon administers the injectables, complications are infrequent and usually minor. However, individuals vary greatly in their anatomy and their physical reactions so outcomes are never completely predictable. Allergic reaction is rarely a problem for the most modern types of injectable hyaluronic acid because it's derived from a non-animal source. Therefore, no pre-treatment skin test is required. However, there is still a small risk of infection and other infrequent complications.

PLANNING

Step one is to discuss your hopes and expectations fully with a plastic surgeon or experienced cosmetic doctor. He and his skin care team have experience with many different types of surgical and non-surgical facial procedures. In this initial consultation about facial rejuvenation he will examine your face - the skin, the muscles and the underlying bone - and will help you select a treatment option tailored to you alone. He will need to know your full medical history including any drug allergies, and will check for conditions that could cause problems, such as active skin infections or unhealed sores from injuries. Injectable fillers are not suitable for people who are pregnant, breast-feeding or planning conception in the near future.

HAPPY?

Most patients are very satisfied with the results of injectable treatments. You may be surprised how pleased you will be at the results that these procedures can deliver.