“You’re living in the age of the ‘lip job,’” declared Elle magazine in an October 2018 article.
According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, injectable fillers have seen a “massive 40.6% increase over the past five years. The same report indicated that, by years’ end, the top two non-surgical procedures of 2017 involved fillers, using either botulinum toxin (including Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin) or Hyaluronic Acid (including Juvederm Ultra, Ultra Plus, Voluma, Perlane, Restylane, and Belotero.)
If you are one of the thousands who are considering lip augmentation in Los Angeles, it is wise to be well-informed about the products, procedure, and effects of treatment before you move forward. For any further questions or concerns regarding your lip augmentation in Los Angeles, consult with Dr. Zoumalan directly.
Lip Injections: The Basics
Lip injections are a non-surgical way to temporarily plump your lips. Dr. Zoumalan injects your lips with a substance (known as a “filler,”) which adds volume and definition to your lips. Currently, FDA-approved hyaluronic acid is most commonly used as filler. Hyaluronic acid is a sugar naturally found in the body. The effects should last anywhere from six to 12 months, on average about 9 months.
Choosing a Filler: Restylane, Juvederm, or Something New?
There are different types of hyaluronic acid; they have similar chemical makeups, but they vary in firmness, flexibility, and longevity. The types of lip injections that Dr. Zoumalan uses may include Juvederm, Belotero, Vollure, Volbella, and even Restylane products. Each filler has its own unique properties, and depending on the goals of the treatment and the types of lips (for example: symmetric vs not symmetric, thin lips, lack of definition at the lip border), a targeted plan with the optimum filler will be used.
Here is a rundown of the four most common fillers used in lip injections:
Juvederm Ultra
Plumps the lip and creates a “plush” finish by pulling in moisture.
Restylane
Best for creating volume and structure around the border of the lip. This filler is not often used by Dr. Zoumalan for the lips, though.
Volbella and Vollure
The newest forms of fillers on the market. Used for subtler definition, fine lines around the mouth, and small enhancements. An advantage of these products is that they tend to last longer than other fillers.
Cost
Price depends on which product you use and, of course, how much product is in the syringe. Dr. Zoumalan typically performs his lip augmentation in Los Angeles with one syringe of hyaluronic acid, keeping your look polished and professional and your costs down.
Finding the Right Fit: Who is a Candidate for Lip Injections?
Nearly anyone who is not satisfied with the size or shape of their lips is a candidate for lip injections. The times to avoid the procedure are when you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have an active cold sore or any diseases of the lips.
The Pain Prognosis
There are no two ways about it—getting injections in your lips can cause some discomfort. But Dr Zoumalan has developed a very comfortable protocol to during the procedure to allow you to have as good of an experience as possible. Typically, numbing creams, distraction devices, and/or ice before the procedure are applied to help you manage pain.
The Recovery Period
Recovery varies widely from patient to patient. You might experience some bruising, redness, or discomfort at the injection site. Or, you may not experience any of these! Typically, Dr. Zoumalan tells his patients to expect some swelling and bruising for the first 24-48 hours after injection.
In rare cases, you may experience more severe or long-lasting swelling. In this case, Dr. Zoumalan can give you a prescription medication to reduce the inflammation.
The Escape Hatch: Lip Injections are Reversable!
If you are not happy with your results, the filler can always be dissolved with an enzyme. Most doctors recommend waiting 2 weeks to see your true results before rushing in to have your treatment undone. If you notice any lumps or unevenness, simply return to Dr. Zoumalan’s office to have them fixed.
Lip Augmentation in Los Angeles
Dr. Christopher Zoumalan is a Board-Certified Oculoplastic surgeon in Beverly Hills. He performs surgical and non-invasive treatments, specializing in eyelid surgery. That said, one of the most common non-invasive treatments he performs in his office is the lip injection. For a consultation and find out more about the art and craft of building your dream smile, Contact Dr. Zoumalan Today!
