What type of hyaluronic acid is used to perform lip augmentation?
There are two main types of hyaluronic acid, cross-linked and non-cross-linked. The first maintains its volume over time, the second does not and is therefore only used for hydration treatments. To increase the lips or to outline them, always use the first one.
What brands do you work with? Why?
It is very important to choose a specific implant for this very special area, which integrates well inside the lip. I don’t usually change brands a lot, so I can gain a lot of practical experience with a brand, I currently use Hydryalix Lips from Luminera.
What is the difference between lip augmentation and profiling?
The difference is the area where it is implanted, inside the labial mucosa in the first case and on the edge of the lip in the second case. Profiling achieves enhancement without an increase in volume, it is interesting to treat vertical supralabial wrinkles or barcodes that sometimes cross the upper lip edge and also to beautify the upper lip. A very natural result is achieved
Is it normal to leave the office with swollen lips?
It is not usual in my experience, but it is a possible side effect in a small percentage of cases. It is very important not to excessively traumatize a delicate area like this, the needle for example, must be as fine as possible to allow us to work correctly.
What do you think of lip augmentation with autologous fat? And about the Lip Lift technique?
All treatments have advantages and disadvantages, the first requires a previous liposuction, which makes it more cumbersome, although it has the advantage of biocompatibility (fat is a tissue of the patient) and durability. The second is a surgical technique, with all that this implies, which is performed primarily to lift the upper lip. In my opinion, with an implant as well tolerated as hyaluronic acid (we must not forget that it is found naturally in our own body) equivalent results can be achieved with fewer complications and a lower cost of time and money for the patient.
Why are permanent products no longer used as before?
There are two main reasons, the first being the secondary effects (inflammatory reactions, granulomas, etc.), which is why they are totally discouraged on the lip. The second is that what was initially seen as an advantage: being “eternal”, has become a drawback in the current planning of facial aging treatment. Yes, the aging of all the structures of the face is continuous and dynamic (some are reduced, others increase or are more visible and always change places) and it may be that what was aesthetically balanced at 35 years of age, is not at 55. Current Aesthetic Medicine is more of a continuous accompaniment over the years with small gestures that produce great results than a very aggressive one-off intervention.
Is it advisable to put hyaluronic acid only on one of the lips? Why?
Yes, it is something I do often since there is usually an imbalance in favor of the lower lip, therefore it is sometimes enough to act on the upper lip. It must also be taken into account that the area above the upper lip ages earlier, in part since the bone and dental structures on which it sits lose volume, which causes a sinking effect and also due to the effect of habits such as tobacco.
Is it better to put a little product first the first time and put more if necessary after a few days?
I am not in favor of using large volumes at once, I usually call my patients after a few days to assess the results. I seek to beautify with a natural result and that the person looks good progressively.
If a patient is not satisfied with the result, can the filler be removed?
Yes, it is possible to use a substance called hyaluronidase that breaks down hyaluronic acid.
What would you say to people who are afraid of getting “duck lips”?
That you talk with your aesthetic doctor, dialogue, clear and realistic expectations, and the maximum information about the therapeutic options are essential.
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