The lips are one of the most strongly emphasized features of the human face, particularly for women, who often strive to enhance theirs with a variety of cosmetics. A well shaped and symmetrical mouth has been a symbol of feminine beauty throughout many cultures for centuries. This pressure leaves many women and some men dissatisfied with their personal appearances even with the aid of expensive makeup. Fortunately for them, there are a variety of surgical and non-surgical, temporary and permanent solutions to their appearance issues.

Non-Surgical Options

Many people are understandably nervous about undergoing a surgical procedure. Fortunately you may not have to do so in order to gain the facial features you desire. Lips can be plumped or re-shaped by injecting certain materials with small needles. The procedure is relatively quick and generally does not require a stay in a hospital.

The most commonly injected material is collagen, a protein that is usually derived from cows. Adverse reactions to this material are rare, but some people are allergic, so a sensitivity test should be conducted before the procedure. This protein can make lips appear larger and fuller, but it will be reabsorbed by the body over the course of one to three months. For this reason, refresher or maintenance procedures are usually required on a regular basis.

Fascian is a commercial product derived from collagen and the patient's own fascia, a connective tissue found in the body. This product is preferred by some patients for its firm texture and relatively long life span. Although it is also absorbed by the body over time, this occurs at a much slower rate. Individual results can vary quite a bit in that respect; some patients require a refresher shot after six months, while others find the effects of the procedure last for years.

Surgical Options

Although they involve more discomfort and longer recovery periods, some patients prefer to undergo surgery because the results generally take longer to wear off. The most common of this form is plastic surgery is grafting. In this procedure, tissue that is taken either from the patient or from a donor network is inserted into the lips through small incisions. These incisions are usually strategically placed so that any scars they may leave will not be visible to anyone looking at the patient's face.

The most common side effects of these procedures are swelling and mild bruising. Both of these generally reside within weeks, and any bruises that many form can generally be hidden with makeup.

For more information about lip enhancement, contact Austin plastic surgeon Dr. Apostolakis.