Dermal fillers are minimally invasive and a popular modality for lip augmentation. Currently, there are many dermal fillers with an increasing variety of biochemical compositions warranting tailored injection whilst approaching lip injection. A good knowledge of product characteristics, appropriate injection techniques and anatomy is essential to achieve optimal results while ensuring patient safety.
Customizing Lip Filler Treatments
The goals of lip injection differ for different patients. First and foremost, the injector must listen to their patients and take a proper history. It is important to inquire about the patient’s goals, whether related to augmenting, reproportioning, or simply hydrating the lips—or all of the above. Each individual area should be analyzed in isolation as well as in relation to the face as a whole and with respect to symmetry. Lip analysis should always involve both a static and dynamic component.
Choosing the Right Filler
Fillers are classified by their composition, HA cross-linking parameters, and rheologic properties, such as elasticity, viscosity, cohesivity, flexibility, and particle size. These, in turn, in combination with anatomy and tissue quality, guide filler selection. A softer, flexible product such as JUVÉDERM® VOLBELLA, Prollenium® (Revanesse®) Kiss, or Belotero® Lips should be used to avoid visible or palpable lumps if injected superficially for hydration and a little bit of pout. A stiffer or more viscous filler, such as Belotero Intense or Prollenium Outline, is preferred for architectural enhancement.
Understanding Lip Filler Longevity
The duration of HA fillers varies widely. Duration depends on the percentage and type of HA cross-linking, the patient’s metabolic rate, the dynamic nature of recipient sites, and typically ranges from 6 to 12 months.
Using the Right Injection Tools
Filler injection can be carried out using a blunt cannula or a sharp needle, typically 25–32 gauge in size. Proponents of cannula use maintain that cannula injections result in less bruising and swelling while improving safety by decreasing the risk of filler injection into a blood vessel.
Attaining Ideal Upper and Lower Lip Ratio
It is important to maintain the relative ratio of the upper-to-lower lips. In Caucasians, the ratio is 1:1.618, whereas it becomes closer to 1:1 in those with Asian and African heritage.
Achieving Natural-Looking Results
Last but not least, it is critical to avoid the temptation to overcorrect volume-deflated lips and remember to keep lips harmonized with the rest of the face.
As a board-certified dermatologist voted as one of the “Three Best Rated Dermatologists in London, Ontario,” a physician member of AMNI (Aesthetic Medicine Network Inc.), and winner of a Consumer Choice Award, Dr Wei Jing Loo understands the versatility of dermal fillers and how they are an effective and quick way to enhance your lips this Valentine’s Day.
Don’t miss out on our “Lip and Lash Promo” of buy 1 cc of dermal filler for the lips and get a free box of 3ml Latisse for thicker, longer and fuller lashes! If you want treatments with dermal fillers, request a consultation or call us at (519) 472-2929 to schedule an appointment.
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