Lip Augmentation
History of the Procedure
Augmentation of the lip has been performed for cosmetic reasons for ages. Women of all ethnic and social backgrounds have applied cosmetics to their lips to define or alter their appearance since the Stone Age. Tribal ceremonies involving the introduction of various materials in the lips to alter their shape, usually with the intent to enlarge them, have been practiced in Africa for centuries.
Enhancing the lips is one of the procedures that can be done, which can have a huge impact on the overall youthful rejuvenation of the entire face. By restoring the volume that has naturally been lost over time, a refreshed and youthful appearance can be achieved.
Etiology
Cosmetic deformities of the lips include both congenital and acquired etiologies, and some patients never develop adequate fullness in their lips. Atrophy (loss of that plum baby fat) develops in the lips and lower face of other patients as they age. Hyaluronic acid is the sugar-based gel that naturally supports the cells in our skin, is a major component in the fluids that lubricate our joints, and gives our eyes there spherical structure. As we age, our body produces less and less hyaluronic acid, especially in the cells located in the lower face, around the mouth and in the lips. Other factors which contribute to aging of the lower face and lips are sunlight, ultraviolet tanning beds and environmental toxins such as pollution and cigarette smoke.
Treatment
Every patient has a thorough exam of their facial structures and then spends time with Dr. Smith discussing the treatment options and desired results. Some patients have had thin lips all their lives and they would like to enhance their lips to bring them to a more "normal" size, in artistic symmetry with the rest of their face. Other patients simply would like to have their lips accentuated for the purpose of making them more full or voluminous. Still other patients would like to have correction of lip lines or "smoker's lines", although they may not have necessarily have been caused by smoking.
Products and Procedures
For many who undergo lip augmentation, atrophy or loss of hyaluronic acid in the lip is the primary reason for treatment. Dr. Smith often uses Restylane or Juvederm, as pure forms of hyaluronic acids. Collagen, Botox and sometimes even the patient's own fat will often be used in the restoration of structure and volume to the lower face and lips. Anytime one performs injections there can be a small amount of discomfort. Dr. Smith almost always performs regional anesthesia similar to a dentist. This takes only a few seconds and makes the procedure almost entirely painless.