Lip Augmentation

Lip Augmentation

Lip augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that makes the lips fuller and plumper. The commonest and safest techniques used for lip augmentation are filler injection or fat graft injection. Besides making the lips fuller, lip augmentation can also  create prominent Cupid’s bows and a fuller central lip tubercle that make the lips look more attractive.

Preparation

1. 1. 1. Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilized before surgery.

      2. Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking is harmful to wound healing and increases the risks of other post-operation complications.

      3. Stop the following medications and supplements from one week before surgery until one week after surgery.

         1. All supplements containing vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, and other ingredients that increase bleeding during the procedure. Other supplements, traditional medicine, and herbs, in which ingredients are unknown, have to stop as well.

         2. Medicine that increases bleeding during the procedure such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medication before you stop them.

      4. On the day of the procedure, wear simple and comfortable clothing. Do not wear any makeup. Do not wear any jewelry and metal objects on the face and body.

Techniques

1. Filler Injection (non-surgical)

Duration: 20-30 minutes

Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia

Hospitalization: Not required.

Recovery: Back to work and exercise on the same day

Procedure: Filler (hyaluronic acid) is injected into the lips to increase fullness and create the lips’ desired shape.

2. Fat Graft

Duration: One hour

Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia

Hospitalization: Not required

Recovery*: Back to work: the next day

Procedure: The surgeon harvests a small amount of fat graft from the tummy or thigh. The fat is then purified and injected into the lips to create the desired size and shape.

Post-operative Care (Fat Graft)**

1. 1. 1. What to expect:

         1. Swelling is usually minimal and lasts for a few days. Post-operative pain usually is very minimal.

         2. Avoid hot foods and drinks which may affect the survival of the fat graft.

      2. General care

         1. Avoid smoking, as smoking will affect the survival of the fat graft and diminish the results.

         2. Avoid pressure on the lips for at least one week.

         3. Adequate rest and sleep are helpful for a speedy recovery.

         4. Be relaxed and calm. Contact the clinic if there are any queries.

      3. Medicine: Finish the oral antibiotics as prescribed.

      4. Wound care: Avoid hot foods and hot drinks for at least 3 days.

      5. Follow-up: Come back one week after surgery for review.

      6. Emergency: If there is heavy bleeding, a rapid increase in swelling or severe pain, immediately contact the clinic/doctor for advice.

** The instructions in this list are only for general guidance. If you have any specific queries or concerns during the post-operative recovery, please contact the clinic for further advice.