ARE LIP IMPLANTS SAFE

Are Lip Implants Safe?

Lip implants are a type of lip enhancement which involves placing small incisions in the corners of the mouth where silicone or plastic implants are placed.

Lip Implant Advantages:

• Silicone implants have a long life expectancy and can enhance the lips for many years

Lip Implant Disadvantages:

• Side effects from the procedure such as bruising and swelling are common
• There is a greater risk of more severe side effects which include infections, shifting of the implants, an allergic reaction, lumps, prolonged swelling, bruising, and lip asymmetry
• Removal of the implants is extremely challenging

With the lip augmentation procedure which uses implants, small incisions are made and it is generally considered to be safe. As with any surgical procedure, it includes the possible risks of bleeding, infection, and undesirable results. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon who is well trained and performs the procedures in an accredited surgical facility helps to minimize these possible risks.

Lip implants are an effective method which gives the lips a more symmetrical and fuller appearance. Once the implants are placed, they can last for decades. Lip implants last far longer compared to fillers. The implants, however, do have more risks compared to injections and may not be the best solution for all patients.

Lip Injections

Lip augmentation through the use of injections is accomplished using hyaluronic acid dermal fillers which can include products such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Elevess.

Lip Injection Advantages:

• Minimal risks of long-term bruising or swelling
• Results provide the patient with natural-looking enhancements of the lips’ shape, structure, and volume
• Results typically last for about a year
• Severe side effects from allergic reactions are extremely rare

Lip Injection Disadvantages:

• Common side effects include bleeding, swelling, redness, tenderness, and bruising
• Lip injection results are not permanent
• More serious side effects include infections, allergic reactions, lumps, prolonged swelling or bruising, and lip asymmetry

Lip augmentation with fillers has fewer risks compared to implants. However, the fillers are not able to produce the same results for the same duration of time. Most lip fillers enhance the volume of the lips for about 12 to 18 months. Additional injections are required in order to maintain the desired results.

After receiving lip injections, patients may experience some minor swelling and bruising on the lips. These side effects are typically only present for a short period of time and are resolved on their own over time. Most patients are able to return to their regular activities immediately without any challenges. Although it is encouraged to rest for a day or two.

Recovery from the placement of lip implants can take up to two weeks or more. During the recovery, patients will need to avoid some activities to reduce the risk of serious side effects and damage to the implants. Your doctor will review all pre and postoperative care instructions to ensure you have realistic expectations with the best possible outcome.

Lip Augmentation Candidates

The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for lip augmentation with fillers or implants is to schedule a consultation with the doctor. During the consultation, the doctor will review your concerns, discuss treatment options, and discuss the optimal solution to meet your needs while setting realistic expectations.

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