Lip Enlargement

Lip Enlargement - The upper and/or lower lip can be enlarged with fillers or implants. Such fillers include fat from the abdomen or Juvederm® or Restylane®. Permalip is an lip implant currently on the market that is made of solid, soft silicone. Other materials that have been used include Alloderm, which is sterile human dermis or Gore-Tex sutures. Ask your doctor which technique and material they prefer.

Expectations

What should I expect?

Results should be permanent with implants but if using fillers, lip injections will need to be repeated every 6 months to a year.

How should I prepare?

Your doctor may prescribe acyclovir before this procedure to avoid an outbreak of fever blisters or cold sores. Even if you don't have a history of these, you may still want to take this medication. If you have a history of fever blisters/cold sores, definitely inform your doctor. A typical drug regimen is taking acyclovir 1-2 days before your procedure, the day of and for several days after your procedure to avoid an outbreak.

It is best to stop smoking several weeks before your procedure. Also, refrain from taking any aspirin or ibuprofen before and after your procedure. Inform your physician about any and all medications you are currently on.

What are the risks?

Possible side effects include swelling or infection that would require removal of the implant if used.

How do I ensure my safety?

This is a safe procedure when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. This is a procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia in the office or in combination with a facelift or other facial surgery.

What will recovery be like?

When dealing with lip augmentation, the final outcome will not be evident until about a week passes. If your lips appear very swollen at first, do not be alarmed, this will resolve within a week. Contact your physician if your discomfort persists.

This is an outpatient procedure. It is meant to have no down time. Return to work at your own pace but this should not require vacation or time off of work.

How much does it cost?

In the United States, the average cost of a lip enlargement is $3,766, according to BuildMyHealth's Pricing Database.This includes costs of anesthesia, operating room facilities, and other related fees.

See more detailed pricing for this procedure