Lip augmentation

Which filler is right for you?

Lip augmentation is not just for women who want larger, fuller lips - Jessica Simpson had Restylane injected in her lips to get that effect. As people age, their lips lose fullness which makes them appear older. While injectable fillers can combat aging around the lips and mouth, not all are created equal -- some can even lead to long-lasting complications, scientists say. (Related: Secret of Jessica Simpson's lips)

According to Dr. Miles Graivier, "Numerous injectables have entered the market over the last five years giving patients a number of options for fuller, younger lips. But patients need to be aware of the risks and benefits of these products. Some fillers carry a higher risk of complication depending upon where they are injected, which can lead to unsatisfactory results." (Related: Lip lift)

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During lip augmentation and rejuvenation of the aging mouth, it is best to address all of the following areas: Photo of a woman's beautiful lips with pink lipstick.

Photo of a woman's beautiful lips with pink lipstick.

Outer mouth (laugh lines)

Edge of lip (lipstick lines)

Inner lip (Related: Chapped lips)

Semi-permanent fillers are best around the mouth and along the lip's border and help to redefine the edge and fill in lipstick and laugh lines. (Related: Lip enhancement) However, when semi-permanent fillers are injected into the inner lip, patients may experience a higher rate of complications like visible lumps and clumping. Since results can last between one and two years, this can leave patients with a poor result for several months. (Related: How to get a beautiful smile)

The gold standard for augmenting the inner lip is hyaluronic acid fillers (e.g. Juvederm, Restylane, Revanesse, etc.), which last three to six months. Hyaluronic acids carry little risk because of their short-term results. Collagen can be used, but due to collagen's high cost, hyaluronic acids are considered superior. Watch the video clip below of Dr. Michelle Hardaway explaining the use of Radiesse. (Related: Cold sores on lips)

Dr. Graivier says, "When most people think of lip augmentation, they immediately picture lips like Angelina Jolie. However, the average lip augmentation patient is aged 35 to 64 and has the procedure to restore, not to over fill. Lip augmentation, combined with rejuvenation of surrounding problem areas like laugh lines, can really remove years from your appearance. The key is using the appropriate filler in the correct area." (Related: Inflamed lips)