A Haute Guide to Lip Fillers

With full lips in full swing, lip injections seem to have risen to the top of cosmetic surgery procedures. Although you might be able to achieve a luscious look with a simple scrub, plumper and lip liner, realistically, you’ll probably need a little extra help. And with only a temporary commitment but maximized results, dermal fillers are the perfect solution for thinner lips. So if you’re in the market for a plump pout (Aren’t we all?), these are a few basic guidelines that will help you create the best experience!

There are several different lip fillers out there, but the most commonly used ones are derived from hyaluronic acid. These include Belotero, Juvederm Ultra, Restylane Silk and Restylane. They can all create a fuller lip, but each serves a different purpose. There is no one filler that is best for all patients, according to Haute Beauty expert and plastic surgeon Dr. Sachin Shridharani.

Shridharani says “The devil is in the details,” so it’s important to focus in on what your goal is as the patient. If you want a more voluminous look, you might consider Juvederm Ultra or Restylane, whereas, if you want a more refreshed and moisturized look, Restylane Silk or Belotero might be your best option, Shridharani says. The majority of dermal lip fillers will wear off within six to nine months.

And while a more permanent option might be tempting, it’s important to be aware of the possible dangers. Procedures such as implanting Gore-Tex, inserting a sheet of cadaver skin, injecting silicone or injecting your own fat will all leave lasting results, but they might not be the results you had hoped for. With these procedures, there’s an increase in contour irregularity, hematoma formation and an overall unnatural look, which is why hyaluronic acid fillers are an even more appealing option.