Lip Augmentation: Types, Procedure, Side Effects

Lip augmentation is a procedure that can increase lip volume, enhance lip contours, and correct asymmetry.

Lip augmentation methods:

Lip augmentation with fat: the doctor uses fat from another part of the body, usually the abdomen, prepares it, and injects it into the lips;
Lip augmentation with fillers: the doctor uses gel-like fillers made of hyaluronic acid;
Lip augmentation with implants: the doctor makes a small incision in each corner of the mouth and inserts an implant into the lips;
Lip lift: the doctor removes excess skin between the nose and upper lip (or corners of the mouth) and lifts the lips.

Who is suitable for lip augmentation?

The doctor will help you decide whether you are a suitable candidate for lip augmentation and which procedure is most suitable for you.

In most cases, you are a suitable candidate for lip augmentation if:

You complain of dry lips, lip asymmetry, or loss of firmness;
You do not have an active infection (skin, gastrointestinal tract);
You do not have chronic diseases (diabetes or lupus).

Detailed information about the procedure

How to prepare for lip augmentation?

Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to best prepare. It is recommended that you avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or anticoagulants for several days before the procedure, as these can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.

What happens during the procedure?

During lip augmentation, the doctor will apply a local anesthetic to your lips. The local anesthetic will numb your lips so that you do not feel any pain and the procedure is as gentle as possible. Anesthetic creams often contain benzocaine, lidocaine, and tetracaine (BLT). After about 15-30 minutes, your lips should be numb. The doctor will then use a thin needle to inject the appropriate amount of hyaluronic acid into carefully marked areas. During the procedure, you may feel slight discomfort and pressure in the lip area. On average, the doctor injects 1 ml of hyaluronic acid filler into the lips, which is about one-fifth of a teaspoon. The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes. OST KLINIKA uses only the highest quality, safe, and reliable medical products for hyaluronic acid injections.

What happens after the procedure?

After the procedure, the doctor may gently massage your lips to help them absorb the hyaluronic acid and may also apply a cooling agent, such as dry ice, to your lips to reduce swelling and bruising. After the procedure, the doctor may monitor you for up to 15 minutes to make sure you do not experience any side effects, including dizziness, nausea, or an allergic reaction. The local anesthetic will not make you tired or sleepy, so you will be able to drive yourself home. Your lips may be swollen, sensitive, and sore. The swelling usually goes away after 24-48 hours, but it can take up to a week.

The doctor will also schedule a follow-up consultation approximately two weeks after the procedure to evaluate the final results.

Tips for faster lip healing:

Apply cold locally;
Avoid using lipstick, lip balm, or other products on your lips for at least 24 hours;
Do not touch or press your lips;
Be careful when brushing your teeth;
Avoid physical activity for at least 24 hours;
Eat soft foods for at least 24 hours to avoid damaging your lips.

Advantages of lip augmentation

It is a safe and effective procedure—the risk of complications or side effects is low.
This procedure is reversible. If you are not satisfied with your appearance, your doctor can inject an enzyme (hyaluronidase) to dissolve the hyaluronic acid filler.

Side effects of lip augmentation

Redness, swelling, and pain at the injection sites;
Increased sensitivity at the injection site;
If you have the HSV-1 virus (herpes), lip augmentation may cause an outbreak;
Discoloration or sensitivity;
Infection;
Tissue necrosis, which can occur if hyaluronic acid is injected into or around an artery;
The lips may be different sizes (asymmetry);
Hyaluronic acid fillers may migrate to other areas of the face, most commonly towards the nose.

All side effects are temporary and usually disappear within a few days of treatment.

FAQs about lip augmentation

What is the best method of lip augmentation?

The method that is right for you depends on your goals, lip shape, and size. During a consultation with the qualified doctors at OST KLINIKA, you will discuss the available options in detail and choose the lip augmentation method that is best for you.

How long does the effect of hyaluronic acid injections last?

The effect of hyaluronic acid injections usually lasts from 12 to 18 months, depending on your metabolism, the products used, and your age.

Are hyaluronic acid injections painful?

You may feel slight discomfort at the injection sites, which should disappear after 12-24 hours.

Can hyaluronic acid injections be harmful?

Hyaluronic acid injections are safe when performed by experienced and qualified doctors. At OST KLINIKA, we only work with proven and certified devices and products to ensure the best results after the procedure.

Are hyaluronic acid injections long-lasting?

Hyaluronic acid injections are not long-lasting. The effect of hyaluronic acid injections usually lasts from 12 to 18 months, depending on your metabolism, the product used, and your age. You may need regular repeat procedures to maintain the desired lip shape and volume.

When is it not recommended to use hyaluronic acid injections?

During pregnancy and breastfeeding;
In case of autoimmune diseases;
If you are prone to hypertrophic scarring;
If skin inflammation occurs at the injection site;
If you are hypersensitive to hyaluronic acid;
In case of neoplastic diseases;
Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures (extreme cold, saunas, UV rays) and swimming pools for several days after the procedure.

What is the healing period after the procedure?

Pain and discomfort should disappear after 12-24 hours. Lip swelling should disappear after 24-48 hours, but it can take up to a week. If you want to have lip augmentation before a big event, such as a wedding, you should plan the procedure at least two weeks in advance.

When can I eat or drink after the procedure?

It is recommended to start eating once the local anesthetic has worn off;
Eat soft foods for at least 24 hours to avoid damaging your lips;
You should avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours, as alcohol thickens the blood, which can increase bruising of the lips;
Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures (extreme cold, saunas, UV rays) and swimming pools for at least 24 hours after the procedure.

When should I see a doctor after the procedure?

It is recommended to have a follow-up consultation with your doctor two weeks after lip augmentation. The doctor will examine your lips and discuss the final results with you.