Lip Enhancement

Lip enhancement is a procedure to create fuller or more shapely lips and can also reduce fine lines around the mouth.

The procedure may be surgical or non-surgical depending on the method chosen. Options include injectable fillers, fat transfer/injections, synthetic implants and surgical lift or advancement. Each has advantages and disadvantages.

Which is the best option for me?

That depends on several factors, including the shape and size of your lips; the desired enhancement/effect; the durability of the results; ease of administration; risks and costs.

• Injectable fillers are a non-surgical option. Filler material is injected using tiny needles. It is both the least invasive and least permanent, typically lasting 3-6 months (see facial fillers )
  
  
• Fat transfer/injections are more permanent, but the procedure is more involved because the fat has to be taken from another part of your body first using liposuction (see fat transfer )
  
  
• Synthetic implants are permanent; they are soft but can be “felt” in the lips. They are inserted through tiny incisions inside the corner of the mouth. Different implant materials are available.
  
  
• Surgical lift or advancement. This is typically used where someone has very thin lips or a long distance between the nose and the upper lip. To project and lift the lips a strip of skin is removed from below the base of the nose or from along the border of the lip. Results are permanent but you will have fine scars at the incision sites.

Your surgeon will discuss the options with you in detail and help you assess the most suitable method for you.

What are the risks?

Overall, lip enhancement is a safe procedure and complications are uncommon. However, there are risks involved and it is important that you understand them. The risks are different depending on the method and will be explained as part of your consultation. Problems include bruising, swelling, lumpiness, under or over correction and skin discolouration. Infection and skin loss are possible but extremely rare. With filler injections, there is a slight risk of allergic reaction. With implants there is the risk of displacement or hardening and the implant may need to be removed. For other risks relating to surgery, see General Risks.