Don’t fret if you weren’t born with voluptuous lips. They come in all shapes and sizes and their look is largely determined by your genetics. They may also change shape as you get older, becoming thinner as time goes by.
The good news is that lip-fullness can be controlled through the use of dermal fillers. If you’re new to the concept of dermal fillers or are skeptical about its effectiveness as lip filler, here is a walkthrough about two popular lip filler treatments.
Restylane and Juvederm for More Plump Lips
If you’ve toyed with the idea of enhancing your appearance through cosmetic treatments but are keen on keeping it subtle, a lip filler is a good place to start. These fillers are temporary and may last up to a year. They can help correct the early signs of aging, especially around the lips.
Restylane and Juvederm are dermal fillers that are primarily made of cross-linked hyaluronic acid (HA). HA is a natural component found in the human skin with the function of imparting skin volume.
The synthetic dermal fillers manufactured under sterile conditions mimic the function of naturally occurring HA without inciting an immune response. The two dermal fillers are certified safe and approved by the FDA for cosmetic use around the nasolabial fold.
Comparing Restylane and Juvederm
In terms of compositions, Restylane and Juvederm are identical in that they contain cross-linked HA. Medical experts weigh the two as equals. Both offer superb results and the choice between the two are predominantly determined by the end results the patient seeks.
Juvederm offers a softer and more natural looking result when compared against Restylane which provides a firm but lifting effect. Also, the former is more durable, lasting anywhere between six to nine months, depending area of treatment. Both fillers contain lidocaine, a sedative, to alleviate any discomfort at the time of administration.
What to Expect During Lip Filler Treatment
Before the treatment begins, your doctor will run an allergy test to make sure you aren’t allergic to the components that make up the filler. If it is found that you are allergic to the treatment, other options may be provided to you. Also, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, your doctor may advise that you wait a bit before undergoing the treatment.
To begin, your doctor will mark the areas of injection for added precision. Most clinics that offer lip filler treatments, apply a topical skin anesthetic 40 minutes before the injection. Such creams minimize bruising and discomfort at the time of the injection. A few clinics also offer a dental block (similar to the one found at a dentist).
The procedure can be completed within an hour and you will be free to resume your normal daily activities, almost immediately. With lip fillers, there is virtually no downtime and a very low risk of complication.
Soon after the injections are completed, slight swelling and bruising is expected, but it will subside in time. If you experience any lingering discomfort after a few days, your doctor will provide you with medication to help provide relief.
Contact Our Office
If you desire plumper and more alluring lips, a cosmetic treatment like Juvederm or Restylane will be perfect for you. If you’re interested in learning more about the treatment, contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jeffrey Wagner, a highly skilled plastic surgeon.