Lip Augmentation

Generally the aesthetics of lips have no universal idea. This is because it varies with time, personal preference and with cultural beliefs. Many women would want to change their appearance when changes occur along with aging. Although there is a long list of lip-enhancing products in the market there has only been little information about the optimal approach to the enhancement of lips. Whenever restoration or improvement of the lips is contemplated the basic concepts should be taken into account.

History of the procedure

Lip augmentation has been practiced for cosmetic reasons for quite a long time already. Women around the globe wanted to alter their appearance and to give full definition especially to the lips. In order to do so, the use of cosmetics cosmetics has taken its place. The African Tribes for example have used cosmetics to alter the shapes of lower and upper lips during ceremonies.

The Problem

Cosmetic Lip Augmentation is a procedure that is designed to improve and augment the shape of lips that is not damaged by congenital deformity or trauma. Typically, the upper lip is frequently treated and to a higher degree in comparison with the lower lip.

Etiology

Deformities of the lips caused by cosmetics would include both acquired and genital etiologies. Few of the patients never fully acquire of develop fullness of the lips while others experience skin atrophy as they age.

How is the lip augmentation presented?

Indications would refer to the shape and size of the lips. With this, a physical examination that is accurate would be needed to determine two things. These are the desired enhancement and the specific spot of deficiency. Specifically, the patient’s occlusion is evaluated, maxillary-mandibular relations and even the patterns of aging. The relation between the incisors and the upper lip should also be evaluated to know which proper course of action should be taken. Here are some approaches to the physical evaluation undertaken prior to lip augmentation procedure.

Excessive incisor show- this is an augmentation that uses the transfer of fat or dermis fat graft.

Optimal incisor show- a conservative type of lip augmentation that uses the transfer of fat or dermis fat graft.

Inadequate incisor show of the long lip- also known as the “buffalo horn” or the shortening of the lip along with a lift and the incision of the nasal base. This is for younger patients who have incision at the vermillion border or with acute columella-labial angle.

Inadequate incisor show of the normal lip- A lip augmentation with lengthening of the maxillary.

The lip augmentation process usually takes only between 15-30 minutes. The typical cost of the lip augmentation would range from $300 up to $1200 per treatment. Side effects are rarely experienced but some allergic reactions may occur. That is why a patch test is conducted beforehand especially if the bovine collagen will be used for the augmentation. Pain is uncommon although soreness may be felt at the injection site.

Lip augmentation is just one of the many cosmetic approaches to enhancing one’s beauty. It is important to consult first with a reputable professional to decide which treatment would work best. One must be willing to undergo several tests and pay extra dollars to make the treatment permanent.