Dermal Lip Enhancers: What options are out there?

Lip Augmentation with injectable fillers - One of the safest injectable techniques for lip rejuvenation and enhancement.


New statistics show that women are more interested in enhancing their lips than ever before. Rates of women (and some men) have been on a steady increase over the past 5 years. With this increase in growth more research has been put into lip fillers and fillers in general. It is a great time for cosmetic medicine, cosmetic physicians, and cosmetic patients. There are starting to be a wide variety of fillers that the physician (and patient) can choose from to help improve results, decrease risk, and decrease cost in some cases!

Juvederm (Juvederm Ultra XC, Juvederm Ultra)
Juvederm has just come out with its newest filler (not used in the lips yet) Juvederm Voluma which will be discussed at a later date. Juvederm has been the mainstay of lip and facial rejuvenation for years adding robust volume to deflated and drooping facial parts. For lips it is my "go to" filler. It works over a 1-2 week period and can last about 6 months on average! This is the best filler for making the lips larger and more volumized.

Restalyne
Restalyne is a great alternative filler to Juvederm. Effects can last about 3 months on average and is usually considerably cheaper. This may be a good option for someone going to a reunion, going to a wedding, testing fillers out, or just short on cash. The effectiveness is comparable to Juvederm Ultra, but lasts half as much time.

Belotero Balance
Not made for the lips but a nice alternative for someone not wanting to look "Like they had something done." Belotero is a great product for other areas of the face and a wonderful addition to the Hyaluornic acid line. For people looking just for "plumper" lips, this may be a good option. I tend to push more for juvederm for lips, but belotero has its place. Time till re-absorption is about 3-9months.

In the Pipeline (already being used in Europe)

Juvederm volift and vobella
Using newer technology these two new products are able to give smooth results and last up to 12-15 months! Hopefully we can see them in the US market soon after FDA approval. They will be a little more expensive, but long lasting non-permanent results are priceless.

*remember to speak with your physician about all possible side-effects of dermal fillers and lip enhancement. I strongly recommend against any fillers besides hyaluronic acid.