Dermal Fillers for the Lips

Collagen is a protein made up of amino acids. It makes up about 30 percent of the human body, and is generally considered to be the glue that holds the body together. As the face ages, it begins to lose collagen. This is what can lead to lines and wrinkles, as well as thinning of the lips. Collagen is very important for lips and the skin surrounding it, as it gives that full, rounded appearance. People with thin lips and lines around their mouth may wish to look at dermal skin fillers as a way to make their lips look fuller and reduce the appearance of lines around the mouth.

Dermal Filler Procedure

There are a number of dermal fillers for the lips. At Crawford Plastic Surgery, RADIESSE® or JUVÉDERM® can be used, depending on the areas to be targeted. The basic technique for both types of dermal fillers is the same. They are injected into strategic spots in or around the lips to fill them out. The procedure is very quick, usually taking no more than 30 minutes, and can be done with just a local anesthetic.

RADIESSE®: This is a thick dermal filler, with a paste-like consistency, meant to get into the deeper, fatty layers of the facial skin to fill in lines and wrinkles. It can be used around the mouth to fill in lines, such as the nasolabial folds, but should not be used directly in the lips, as it may cause visible lumps.

JUVÉDERM®: This is a thinner dermal filler, with a gel-like consistency, meant only to be used subcutaneously. It is designed to be injected into the lips to fill them out. It should not be used to fill in deep lines around the mouth, as it is not thick enough to fill out the skin in those areas.

Side Effects and Risks

Side effects are generally very minimal, usually consisting of slight bleeding, bruising, or swelling at the injection sites. These should resolve within a few days following the procedure. Numbness or reduced sensation at the injection sites is the biggest risk from dermal fillers used in or around the lips. However, this is usually temporary and should resolve quickly. 

Recovery Time

Recovery time from dermal fillers in or around the lips is very minimal. Most patients can return to normal activities within one or two days following the procedure. Some can even go back to work the next day. If there is bruising at the injection site, it can usually be covered with makeup.

Results

Patients should see results within a few days, once the initial swelling has subsided. Although results can last up to 18 months, RADIESSE® and JUVÉDERM® will eventually be reabsorbed into the body. Patients can elect to have a second injection treatment done at that time.

Although many people may think that lip fillers are something only used by celebrities, the truth is that anybody who wants to have fuller lips, with reduced lines around them, can benefit from a dermal filler. Dr. Crawford can help patients determine what type of dermal filler will best suit their needs.