Lip Augmentation or Enhancement
Plumper, fuller appearing lips can be achieved at Plastic Surgery Center of the South in Atlanta, Georgia. Lip augmentation is a very popular procedure done today. There are many options to enhance your lips or reduce the wrinkles and fine lines around your mouth. It is up to you to determine the extent of the enhancement and permanency; it is a personal preference but should be discussed thoroughly with your physician. Call us today at 770-421-1242 to set up your consultation.
Injectables for Fuller Lips
Lip Augmentation in Georgia can be done by injecting fillers or by surgically placing materials in the lips. Trying a non-permanent injectable is a great way to see how you feel about your new look. Injections are made directly into the lips or area of concern using an ultrafine needle, resulting in minimal discomfort with local anesthesia.
Restylane® is a safe and natural cosmetic dermal filler made of non-animal based hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that already exists in the human body and is used to provide volume and fullness to the skin. Restylane is a very effective way to augment the lips and to correct mild to moderate facial wrinkles and folds from the nose to the corner of the mouth. Individual results may vary; however, studies show the Restylane will generally last for 6 to 12 months.
Juvéderm™ a new filler material made of hyaluronic acid with more crosslinks and may last longer.
Sculptra™ and Restylane SubQ are other injectable materials that can be used for soft tissue augmentation.
Collagen is a filler substance that does have a small risk of allergic reaction; some types require testing prior to injecting. Collagen is injected into areas where depressions, lines or wrinkles can be raised to help the level of the surrounding skin. Thus, lines and scars can be minimized, texture is improved, and the skin has a softer and more even tone. Collagen lasts for only 2 –4 months. There are certain steps involved: a consultation, a skin test if required, the treatment injections and then periodic touch-ups.
Radiesse® is a non-surgical facial contouring filler that delivers longer lasting results. Whether you are longing to reverse the common signs of aging or address the lines that can make you look very serious or sad, even when your face is at rest. Radiesse is made of very tiny, smooth calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) microspheres. These particles form a scaffold through which your body's own collagen grows and this produces the long-term effects. The longevity averages 11 to 18 months depending on the area of correction.
Permanently Fuller Lips
So you have experienced the short-term effects of the injectables and are now ready to proceed to a more permanent type lip augmentation. The procedure can be done in the minor procedure room at Plastic Surgery Center of the South in Atlanta, Georgia. You will receive a local anesthetic and the procedure will last an hour or two. You have a couple options.
Alloderm grafts are obtained from donated human skin supplies from the U.S. tissue banks. The Alloderm graft is processed into a permanent dermal graft and then surgically implanted into your lips. Small incisions are made in the inside corners of your lip and then a tunnel is made where the small implant (similar to a strand of spaghetti) is threaded through your lip. Your own body then grows tissue into the alloderm scaffolding giving you a more permanent result.
Fat Injection is inserting your own fat by surgical measures until you achieve the desired fullness. Your body will reabsorb some of the fat, which doesn't establish a permanent blood supply. Fat would be taken from another portion of your body and then injected in the lips.
Dermal Fat Grafting is where dermis fat is taken from your old scars, known as the donor site, and implanted in a similar fashion as the Alloderm into your lips. There is a potential risk that some of the fat will partially reabsorb.
SMAS/Fat Graft is the same as Dermal Fat Grafting but is done in conjunction with facelifts. This again may partially reabsorb.
FULFILL (Saline) Lip Implant is a new lip prosthesis that is filled with saline and is permanent. Sizes can vary.
Whether using injectable fillers or having an implant surgically implanted there may be risks and complications involved. However, risks are minimal and having fuller lips can greatly enhance your appearance. Communication between you and your physician is key. You can expect some degree of swelling and possible bruising. Apply ice to the area for the first 24 hours and try to keep your head elevated for the first 24-48 hours.
At our Atlanta based practice we put patient safety and concern first whenever you are considering Lip Augmentation or any other procedure. Whatever your decision, we want your experience to be a positive one which starts with a thorough consultation with your surgeon. To make an appointment or if you have any questions please call Plastic Surgery Center of the South at 770-421-1242.
