How is lip augmentation done?
A material known as “filler” is either injected or surgically positioned into the upper and/or lower lips to augment them. There are actually many different materials used to perform lip augmentation. The main “filler” substances used today include collagen, fat and (most recently) a substance known as hyaluronic acid. In the past, other substances such as silicone injections and Gortex strips have been used with unacceptable and sometimes disastrous results. Are there different forms of collagen? There are several different forms of collagen used to augment lips. They can be divided into two main forms: liquid collagen and collagen strips. The liquid, or injectable, collagen is derived from either a bovine (or cow) source or a human source. Collagen strips are currently exclusively derived from a human source. All fillers are treated to prevent rejection or other reactions with our immune system. The bovine collagen, unlike the human form, does require a skin test to make sure that pa
Lip augmentation is most commonly done by the use of injectable materials. Other options, such as implants, are available and these can be discussed at your consultation. • Injectables There are many injectable materials available. The materials last anywhere between 3-12 months after which the injections need to be repeated in order to maintain the results. These materials include: • Collagen • Fat: Fatty tissue is taken from elsewhere on your body, such as inner thighs or buttocks, and injected into the lips. • Hyaluronic acid products such as Restylane, Juvéderm and Perlane It is best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Greenberg to discuss your concerns to determine which product or method will work best for you.
