Frequently Asked Lip Augmentation Questions

For Patients in Orlando and Winter Park, Florida

What is lip augmentation?
It’s a procedure to make your lips larger or fuller, and it also helps smooth the fine, vertical wrinkles around the mouth. It’s a fairly simple procedure with minimal risk though there is no ideal way to do it that gives a perfect outcome for every patient.

How is lip augmentation done?
Lip augmentation can be done in two ways, by implants or by injectables. There are a great many options and products available each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

• Implants

  Implants are usually a type of treated human tissue or synthetic materials.

  The implanted material most commonly used is a product called Alloderm which is human skin which has been specifically treated for use as a soft tissue substitute. It is placed in the lips via small incisions at the corners of the mouth usually under IV sedation anesthesia. Dr. Greenberg does not recommend the synthetic Gortex material because of multiple problems he has seen.

• Injectables

  There are many injectable materials available. The materials last anywhere between 3-12 months after which the injections need to be repeated in order to maintain the results.

  These materials include

  • Collagen
  • Fat: Fatty tissue is taken from elsewhere on your body, such as inner thighs or buttocks, and injected into the lips.
  • Restylane: This is the most popular product used today.
  • Radiesse

It is best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Greenberg to discuss your concerns to determine which product or method will work best for you.

What is Restylane?
Restylane is a form of hyaluronic acid made in a laboratory from non-animal sources. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring product found in all human skin so it is very well tolerated by the body. No skin testing is necessary prior to its use.

How do I know if I’m a candidate for lip augmentation?
Most people in good health are good candidates. You will need to fully understand the procedure and what to do afterwards. The main thing is to discuss it all fully with Dr. Greenberg before you go ahead with it.

How long does lip augmentation take?
Most commonly, lip augmentation injections are done in the office under topical or nerve block ( like at the dentist) anesthesia and usually takes 15-20 minutes.

Does lip augmentation leave any scars?
No scars are seen with injections.

How long is the recovery time after lip augmentation?
There is usually a 24-36 hour period of minimal swelling and bruising.

Is lip augmentation permanent?
No. The injections will need to be repeated at certain intervals depending on the product used in order to maintain the results.

What are the possible complications of lip augmentation?
Complications of the injection method are extremely rare. There can be an allergic reaction to the material used.

Would I have to miss some work time?
This would be a personal decision. Most patients are able to return to work within 48 hours after treatment.

To learn more about your lip augmentation options or to schedule your lip augmentation consultation, please call or e-mail Orlando plastic surgeon Dr. Greenberg today. Dr. Greenberg serves plastic surgery patients in Orlando and Winter Park, Florida.