For many women and men, thin or wrinkled lips can detract from their overall appearance. These days, many have improved their physical appeal through lip augmentation with implants or cosmetic dermal fillers. Lip augmentation magnifies the lips with the help of a fat transfer, cosmetic facial filler, or artificial implant. Patients have several different options, including the following:



 

Human-Based Collagen

 

This lip enhancement procedure involves the use of human-based collagen fillers, such as Cosmoplast, Cosmoderm, Autologen, Cymetra or Fascian. Doctors inject one of these fillers into the lip area, with positive results usually lasting about four or more months.



 

Bovine-Based Collagen

 

Doctors also often use manufactured bovine-based collagen fillers, such as Zyplast, Zyderm and Artefill, for lip enhancement. To qualify for this particular type of procedure, patients must first pass an allergy test.



 

Hyaluronic Acid-Derived Lip Filler

 

Hyaluronic acid-based fillers, such as Hylaform, Juvederm, Perlane, Restylane, and Belotero are thought to last longer than fillers that have a collagen base. Hyaluronic acid is composed of polysaccharide, a safe, naturally occurring carbohydrate that already exists in human tissue.

 



Fat Transfer

 

Patients may also choose lip augmentation through fat transfers, where a doctor extracts fat cells from certain parts of the body and then transfers them to targeted areas within the lips. Though this procedure can be unpredictable, it often produces longer-lasting results.





Lip Implants



Sometimes, patients choose to have synthetic materials inserted into the lip area to promote a permanent improvement in facial appearance. There are several types of implantable products on the market today, including SoftForm, AlloDerm and Gore-Tex. Though many are very satisfied with the results of implantation, there are a few risks. When performed improperly, this procedure may lead to pain, scarring, lumping, implant migration and asymmetrical lips. It's important to remember that not all plastic surgeons are experienced and reputable. For best results, always choose a Board-Certified surgeon.