You can see it on the red carpet, you can see it in magazines, and you can even see it walking through the mall. What am I talking about? Overdone lips! Are inflated looking lips a fad or the new ideal shape? Ultimately, if you desire it, it can be done. However, that does not mean that you should do it. Increasing the size of your lips is an art form that should only be performed by a skilled practitioner that is well versed in the art of lip augmentation. If you are considering increasing the size of your lips I highly recommend you visit a board-certified plastic surgeon or a board certified cosmetic medicine expert who is an expert in lip augmentation with fillers.
A common mistake I see time and time again from patients that come to me to help fix their lip augmentation is that the upper lip is augmented to be an equivalent size or larger than the lower lip. This gives the lips a completely unnatural appearance in humans. Animals such as giraffes and monkeys have larger upper lips; however, looking like a primate does not improve your beauty. Several studies have been performed trying to find the most aesthetically pleasing lips shape and all have concluded that an upper lip that is in 1:3 ratio with lower lip is significantly more pleasing to the eye.
The most popular and most natural method of lip augmentation is through the use of fillers. Most Hyaluronic Acid (HA) fillers such as Juvéderm, Vobella or Vollure work by replenishing the hyaluronic acid levels in the injection area and pulling in moisture from the body to add to its plumping and smoothing effect. It is important to remember that you do not want to overdo it regarding lip filler. Keeping the natural look of the lips requires a lower lip that is shapely and fuller than the upper lip. A quick visit with a properly-trained board-certified plastic surgeon can have your lips plumped, with little to no pain, minimal downtime, and results lasting from 6 months to one year or even longer.
If you decide you want fuller lips, where do you begin? I recommend looking through magazines or pictures on the Internet to determine which size and shape of lips you like best. Next, you have to realize just because they might look good on someone else, does not mean they will look good on you. Finally, I recommend you visit a true board certified cosmetic physician like a board-certified plastic surgeon who is an expert in lip augmentation who can discuss your desired result, set you up for realistic expectations, and who will offer advice on how not to overdo your lips. The key to natural appearing lip enhancement is to do it in a series of steps so you can see how you look and then you can always go back for more if needed.
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