Lip filling, or lip augmentation, is one of the most sought-after aesthetic medicine treatments, as well-defined lips significantly contribute to good facial harmony.
Lip filling is indicated for those who do not have lip volume and want to obtain a plump lip effect, or for patients who, due to aging, have lost volume in their lips and want to recover it. In both cases, the results are natural and harmonious, as the procedure takes into account facial measurements in order to obtain a lip volume that fits the face.
Lip filling consists of the application of injectable hyaluronic acid. This acid is a naturally occurring element in our body and is primarily responsible for tissue hydration. Therefore, one of the great advantages of hyaluronic acid is that, in addition to plumping, it hydrates in depth, reducing the dryness of the lips.
Another great advantage of applying hyaluronic acid to the lips is that it stimulates collagen production. We know that collagen is the main support and firmness element of the skin. Therefore, by stimulating the production of collagen, lip fillers prevent the signs of aging in the mouth area.
The first step to lip filling is the consultation. This moment is very important for the plastic surgeon to understand what the patient’s goals are, make an assessment of the face and define the type of lip filler to be performed, given that there are different filler techniques and different types of hyaluronic acid. Therefore, the main types of lip filler are:
Filler for volume increase
In this type of filler, a higher density hyaluronic acid is used, which is normally applied all over the lip, and in some specific points, a greater amount in order to shape the lips.
Lip rejuvenation filler
For lip rejuvenation, a medium density hyaluronic acid is applied and in this type of filler, the lips are modeled taking into account the shape they had before the advanced aging process.
Filler for the lip contour
In the case of the lip contour, a higher density hyaluronic acid is used and applied all over the contour of the lips to make them more defined.
Filler for lip hydration
In this type of filler, low-density hyaluronic acid is used in smaller quantities, so that the lips do not gain volume, only a sufficient dose is applied to hydrate the lips.
The procedure consists of small infiltrations of hyaluronic acid in the lips and is performed in the office with local topical anesthesia in about 30 minutes. The application is gradual, giving priority to naturalness, in order to prudently assess the result so that, if necessary, after a few days, a second session or touch-up can be carried out. Hyaluronic acid is resorbable, which means that the filling is not permanent or definitive, having an approximate duration of 12 months.
After the procedure, ice will be placed on the area for a few minutes and, for at least two days, you will have to massage your lips five times a day in order to promote a better distribution of the product.
It is normal for there to be some swelling and redness in the area for two days, but you do not need to be absent from work activities. You should avoid physical exercise for at least two days and use sunscreen for at least five days.
It is important to mention that, in cases where there is a history of cold sores, it is recommended to start taking oral antivirals one week before the application. This is because the application of hyaluronic acid on the lips can cause herpes in patients who tend to have this infection frequently.
