Even before the days of sel¬fies and the desire to always be camera ready, women of all ages have looked for ways to enhance the appearance and size of their lips. Full, sensuous lips have often been associated with the beauty ideal; it is the reason women have been applying lip liner and lipstick for so long. In recent years, an increasing number of women have opted for cosmetic treatments to take their pout to the next level.
Lip augmentation has never been more popular. Whether you were born with thin lips or aging has thinned them over the years, lip enhancement is attainable.
There are three options to achieve the pucker you desire. Dermal ¬ fillers, fat transfer and lip implants are all used to augment the lips. While all of these will provide noticeable results, it is essential to understand their differences to determine which is the best for you.
Subtle vs. Dramatic
Whether you’re looking for subtle improvement or a dramatic transformation should be your ¬ first consideration. While some women desire subtle, natural-looking fullness, others want more dramatic results. Fillers can be administered in minimal amounts to provide subtle and natural improvement to the lips, or larger amounts can be injected for a more substantial transformation.
Fat transfer, which uses fat harvested via liposuction from a different area of the patient’s body, can create subtle and natural results. However, if it’s a dramatic transformation you seek, lip implants may be your best option. These flexible implants come in a variety of sizes and are inserted in the top lip, bottom lip or both to augment your pout.
Temporary vs. Permanent
If you are looking to try out lip augmentation but are not sure about a long-term commitment, it’s a good idea to start with temporary ¬ fillers and see what you think of the look and how it transforms your face. If you love your look after ¬ fillers, you can maintain this look with touch-up ¬filler treatments or move on to a more permanent option such as fat transfer or implants.
Fat Transfer vs. Implants
While fat transfer may require occasional touch-ups, it is considered a long-lasting option for lip augmentation. While some of the transferred fat will absorb, the fat cells that remain are permanent. Lip implants are the most permanent option and will not require any additional procedures.
If you are seriously considering lip augmentation it is important to review your options. Possible candidates should be knowledgeable about their desires and realistic with their expectations. For any such elective procedure, you should be in good general health and have no recent cold sores or other lip problems. Fully informed, you’ll be able to make an appropriate treatment decision.
Dr. Martin O’Toole a native of Southern California, is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery.
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