Overview of Procedure
Lip augmentation which is the enhancement of the upper lip, lower lip, or both also referred to as lip implants or lip enhancement surgery . For those who have thin lips or one lip that is fairly larger than the other, this procedure is a perfect solution for you. The objective of lip enhancement surgery is to increase the fullness of your lips to a size and shape suitable for your face. Lip size can be increased surgically or by injections.
The Right Candidates
Good Candidates for Lip Implant Surgery: 18 should be the minimum age requirement for this surgery. Those who are unhappy with the size of their lips or the drastic prominence of one lip to the other may elect this simple procedure.
Risks and Side Effects
Potential Side Effects/Risks associated with Lip Implant Surgery: Allergic reaction to the anaesthesia, reaction or rejection to the implant material, shrinkage in less than one year, cold sore, infection, numbness, dry lips
Surgery
The first step is a detailed consultation with your surgeon, who will discuss with you your desired goals and determine what material will best suit your particular case. After the anaesthesia is administered, incisions are made on the corner of the lips, inside the mouth, where material can be inserted and distributed evenly throughout the lips. Collagen which has been freeze-dried, and comes in sheet form is the material that is typically used. There are two types of freeze-dried collagen materials used for lip implants, Alloderm and Dermaplant. Dermaplant is a pliable soft material that can easily be moulded, thus it has proven itself to be a perfect material for implants, especially lip implants. This method is preferred over collagen injections due to its ability to last longer. This procedure is outpatient, which means you can return home the same day.
Average Duration of Lip Implant Surgery: less than one hour
Recovery
The patient will be administered a local anaesthesia directly prior to this procedure. Swelling, bruising and soreness are to be expected after the surgery, which can be reduced with a cold compress and over-the-counter medications.
Estimated Recovery Time: One to two weeks. Patients will be advised not to take part in any activities, such as intense exercise, that may raise the blood pressure for the first two weeks following the surgery.
Results
Although freeze-dried collagen materials are known to last longer than collagen injectable material, the lips will shrink back to their original size one year after the lip implant procedure.
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