Injectable vs. Lip Implants
Patients seeking fuller, plumper lips in the past have turned to the help of fillers that have provided temporary solutions without surgery. For patients looking for long-lasting results, permanent lip implants, created with a soft, silicone rubber and tapered ends, may also be an option – but one that comes with many drawbacks.
According to New Beauty, lip implants, although permanent, pose a greater risk for complications, an unnatural look, and the potential for extrusion. These issues arise because the lips endure continuous contraction and stretching of the muscles with everyday movement which doesn’t make an ideal scenario for a solid implant to exist without the chance of migration, displacement, or even erosion.
Other solutions for achieving fuller lips without a silicone implant can include:
- Autologen – an injectable dermal implant material made from the patient’s own skin
- Dermalogen – injectable Human Tissue Matrix (HTM) procured from donor tissue
- AlloDerm – a natural collagen sheet made from donated skin inserted through tiny incisions inside the corners of the mouth
- Juvederm – a crystal-clear injectable gel made with hyaluronic acid
Each of these procedures can produce either short-term results (collagen), longer-lasting results (fat injections which may have a lumping or scarring effect), or the potential to cause allergic reactions. Speak with your plastic surgeon about your choices for lip implants to create an effective plan for your desired look. As with any surgical procedure, it’s important to be well informed about the potential risks, and a good surgeon will help you weigh the risks and benefits associated with a particular procedure.
If you are considering lip augmentation, contact Dr. Stevens for a consultation on the procedure.
