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Lip injections also referred to as lip augmentation is a type of cosmetic surgery or cosmetic procedure done with the use of fillers for the purpose of altering the way the lip appears making it look fuller or plumper. It has become very common in this modern world of today. Individual needs can be easily met as there are lots of options thanks to the presence of different types of materials and injections available for lip augmentation. Permanent lip fillers are even possible today when it comes to lip augmentation as some methods are very effective due to the advancement in the area of lip enhancement.
Types of Lip Injections
- Collagen-Based Lip Fillers: This injectable filler was once the most commonly used worldwide, but they are now newer, safer and long lasting options. It is available in two forms. The bovine-derived and also the human-derived collagen.
- Bovine-Derived Collagen Fillers
The bovine-derived collagen is obtained from cow tissue. The cows used for the extraction of bovine-derived collagen fillers are grown in such an environment that they are always monitored and in a closed herd free from all sorts of disease. Usually, an allergic test is done before the use of this particular type of lip filler as there is a three percent possibility of an allergic reaction the bovine collagen. About 1.5 million patients in the world have used Zyderm and Zyplast which are bovine-derived collagen lip fillers. There is also a report that Artecoll which is a bovine-collagen product can provide a long-lasting or even a permanent lip augmentation result as it contains polymethylmethacrylate microspheres which tend to be left in the lips even after the absorption of the collagen.
- Human-Derived Collagen Fillers
The human-derived collagen is gotten from cadavers or sometimes from the excess skin taken out during surgery. One does not need to get an allergy test done before the use of this human-derived collagen as it has the advantage of biocompatibility. For those who are allergic to bovine-derived collagen fillers, this is an excellent option. Examples of fillers made from human collagen are Cosmoderm, Dermalogen, Fascian, Cosmoplas, Cymetra and Autologen.
- Hyaluronic Acid-Based Lip Fillers
Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the body. It is present in the joints and skin. It is a transparent and biodegradable substance. This acid once injected into the lips tends to bind to water molecules. This allows the hyaluronic acid-based fillers to give moisture to the lips and also give it a plump appearance and has a longer lasting than collagen augmentation. When it comes to this type of lip filler, an allergic test before the treatment is unnecessary. Examples of hyaluronic acid-based fillers often used are Perlane, Restylane, and Radiesse.
- Fat Transfer
This type of lip augmentation uses the tissue of the patient unlike collagen-based fillers and hyaluronic acid-based fillers that are derived from animal or human donor tissue. It is ideal for those who are unwilling to inject any foreign material into their body but want fuller and plumper lips. During the procedure, fat from one area of the body of the patient is removed and injected into the lips. The result of this type of lip augmentation gives a soft and natural looking look. There is no need for the allergic test before treatment since it is the tissue of the patient that is used, there is no rejection and rarely any allergic reactions.
Side Effects of Lip Injection
The side effects are usually temporary and should last for just a few days. The patient may notice:
- The injection site may bleed
- The lip may appear swollen or bruised
- At the site of the injection, there may be redness and tenderness
- At the area around the lips or on the lips, there may be a reactivation of cold sore or fever blisters.
Risks of Lip Injection
- If proper care is not taken patient may get an infection
- Tissue loss due to injection into a blood vessel
- Parts of the lips may be different sizes. This is called lip asymmetry
- Presence of lumps and irregularities in the lips
- The lips may become scarred or stiff, sometimes ulcers may appear.
- The swelling or bruises may be severe or prolonged for about seven to ten days if not more.
- The patient may suffer from allergic reaction resulting to itching, swelling and even discoloration(redness) around the lips
Benefits of Lip Injection
- Minimal Downtime: Patients who decide to go for lip implants procedures have a more extended recovery period of about a week whereas those who undergo lip injection which is minimally invasive can return to their daily activities almost immediately.
- The Simplicity of Treatment: Lip injections do not require anesthesia and small incisions as lip implant surgery. The procedure is not time-consuming as it takes about an hour to complete and this can be done on an outpatient basis by the doctor in the office.
- Fewer Side Effects: Though lip injections come with its own fair share of side effects like swelling, redness and bruising, it is less compared to patients who choose lip implants as removal of stitches used to seal the incision will be done few days after the procedure. It is also possible to undergo an allergy test before the treatment of the lip augmentation, therefore, reducing the risk of having an allergic reaction. This is done by the doctor injecting a little amount into the arm of the patient.
- Enhanced Appearance: This is usually the first aim or purpose of people who decide to undergo lip augmentation procedures. When lip injection is given, there is an improvement in the appearance of the patient as fuller lips are good at making a person look and feel In professional and social situations this improvement in appearance goes a long way as it helps improve the self-confidence of the person involved.
Dermatologists
Endeavor to visit a dermatologist for consultation about the procedure. There you will be able to discuss the pros and cons of lip injections and even decide which type is suitable for you. Try to be realistic about the expectations of your outcome. Also here the doctor will find out about existing allergies or conditions and advise you on further decisions.
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References
Benefits of Lip Augmentation | NYC Lip Augmentation. (2018). Retrieved from http://juvadermlips.com/benefits-of-lip-augmentation/
Lip Augmentation & Implants – Cost, Recovery, Risks & Types of Fillers. (2017). Retrieved from https://www.docshop.com/education/cosmetic/face/lip
Lip Augmentation: Types, Side Effects, Risks. (2018). Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-lip-augmentation#2
