Lip Surgery - Specialists and Information

The reasons for lip augmentation are as varied as people themselves. Some want fuller lips to give their face more expression. Others, on the other hand, would like to correct minor asymmetries or irregularities. 

There are many reasons for lip augmentation:

• Volume: Many people want fuller lips to accentuate their facial features or achieve a sensual look.
• Asymmetry: Lips can be asymmetrical, with one lip being larger or smaller than the other. A procedure corrects such asymmetries and results in a more harmonious appearance.
• Aging: As we age, the lips lose volume and elasticity. Fine lines often appear as well, which can detract from the overall appearance. Lip augmentation is intended to reduce the visible effects of aging.
• Self-confidence: People who are dissatisfied with their lips suffer from lower self-confidence. Correction can balance out asymmetries and restore the self-confidence of those affected.

There are now various methods for lip correction. The specific choice depends on the patient’s goals and needs. 

Here are some of the most common methods:

• Hyaluronic acid fillers:

Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that enhances volume and helps define the contours of the lips. Since the body can break down hyaluronic acid, lip injections with hyaluronic acid are not a permanent solution.

In lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid, a hyaluronic acid gel is used to inject the lips @ Vera /AdobeStock

• Autologous fat transfer:

In an autologous fat transfer, doctors extract fat tissue from another area of the body and inject it into the lips. This increases the volume of the lips.

Unlike hyaluronic acid injections, fat transfer is a permanent option for lip augmentation.

• Lip implants:

Lip implants are also a permanent solution for lip augmentation. Specialists use silicone or other types of implants for this procedure.

• Lip reshaping:

In lip contouring, specialists surgically reshape the lips. This is one of the most invasive procedures. 

Lip contouring is suitable for women and men who want to improve the shape of their lips @ Galaxy_love_design /AdobeStock

The lip correction procedure itself is straightforward and is often performed on an outpatient basis. Local anesthetics are used to minimize pain. The lip area is particularly sensitive to pain.

If doctors use fillers to augment the lips, the injection is administered using tiny needles. The entire procedure is completed in 15 to 30 minutes.

In surgical procedures, however, lip correction specialists must make small incisions in the lip area. Even this procedure usually takes less than 60 minutes. Initial results are usually visible immediately.

A lip lift can also take up to 1.5 hours. The final result of lip correction can be expected after about 1 to 2 weeks.

Following the lip correction procedure, specialists recommend avoiding exercise for 2 to 3 days.

You should also avoid direct sunlight for about 2 weeks.

You should also refrain from facial treatments and facial massages for 1 to 2 weeks.

As with any surgical procedure, lip augmentation also carries risks and side effects. 

These include:

• Swelling and bruising: Immediately after the procedure, swelling and bruising may occur for some time. However, these typically subside within a few days.
• Unsatisfactory results: Even with lip augmentation specialists, there is a possibility that the results may not meet your expectations. Therefore, you should plan and discuss your expectations with your surgeon in advance to minimize the risk and avoid disappointment.
• Infections: In principle, any surgical procedure carries a certain risk of infection. Therefore, always follow the postoperative instructions and hygiene recommendations provided by your lip correction specialist exactly.
• Allergic reactions: There is always a possibility of allergic reactions, particularly when using foreign fillers. Therefore, be sure to inform your doctor in advance of any allergies you are already aware of.

The recovery process after lip augmentation is relatively quick. Everything should be fully healed within a few weeks. 

Here are a few things you should keep in mind to avoid delaying your recovery:

• Take care of your lips: Avoid touching or rubbing your lips during the first few days after the procedure.
• Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising are normal after the procedure and usually subside within a few days.
• Medication: Your lip augmentation specialist will likely prescribe medication to relieve pain.
• Results: The final results are usually visible after one to a few weeks, once the swelling has subsided.

The price of lip augmentation can vary depending on the method chosen. For dermal fillers, the cost ranges from 300 to 600 euros. 

The use of autologous fat for the initial treatment costs between 1,000 and 1,500 euros due to the liposuction required beforehand. For follow-up treatments using autologous fat, an additional 250 to 350 euros may be charged.

One important point: Since lip augmentation is a purely aesthetic (cosmetic) procedure, health insurance plans do not cover the costs. It is therefore a private service.

The final results are visible one to two weeks after the procedure @ Inga /AdobeStock

Lip augmentation is a popular aesthetic option for improving lip volume and shape. There are various methods to choose from, and the choice depends on individual goals. 

It is always important to consult with an experienced lip augmentation specialist. You should also inform yourself about the risks and the recovery process. Doctors refer to these considerations as a “cost-benefit analysis.”

If you are considering lip augmentation, you should consult a board-certified plastic and aesthetic surgeon. 

You can find contact information here. Our doctors are distinguished by their extensive expertise and many years of experience in the field of lip correction. They are happy to provide you with detailed information and advice on the various options available.