Why are so many people afraid of having lip augmentation?
If you’ve ever thought about enhancing your lips, you’ve probably felt that fear too: what if they end up looking exaggerated, like a ‘duck’s bill’? This fear is completely normal, and I see it every day in my practice.
I recently saw a woman in her forties. It was her first time considering lip treatment and she was full of doubts. She just wanted a subtle change: to shape them, improve their contour and correct the small wrinkles appearing around her mouth (what many call the ‘barcode’).
Her main fear was ending up with an artificial look. Does that sound familiar?
What exactly is a lip augmentation using hyaluronic acid?
Lip augmentation using hyaluronic acid is currently the most popular treatment for those looking to enhance their smile without surgery. It involves micro-injections of a biocompatible gel that hydrates, adds volume and defines the lip contour.
The advantage is that hyaluronic acid integrates naturally into the tissues. Thus, the result can be as subtle or pronounced as desired, provided it is carried out by a qualified professional.
In fact, in this patient’s case, we used a low-crosslinked hyaluronic acid, which is more fluid and distributes smoothly. This allowed us to achieve a natural effect and, furthermore, reduce the wrinkles on the upper lip.
What options are available to suit your needs?
- Lip contouring: If you simply want to define the outline of your lips without adding volume.
- Subtle enhancement: For thin lips that need a little plumping.
- Barcode wrinkle correction: Ideal if you have those vertical lines that make your mouth look older.
- Deep hydration: Even if you don’t want added volume, hyaluronic acid can improve texture and colour.
What should you avoid doing after lip augmentation?
This is where the practitioner’s professional ethics and communication with you come into play. The following should never be done:
- Using permanent or unauthorised products (such as biopolymers), which can lead to serious complications.
- Injecting excessive volumes that alter your natural facial expression.
- Failing to carry out a preliminary assessment of your anatomy and facial proportions.
How long does the effect last, and what aftercare is required?
The results usually last between six and twelve months, depending on the type of product and your metabolism. The procedure is quick, carried out under local anaesthetic, and you can resume your normal activities on the same day.
After the treatment, there may be some swelling or minor bruising, but this usually disappears within a few days. I always recommend avoiding intense heat and vigorous massage for the first forty-eight hours.
What does the science say about the safety of hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in the human body, present in the skin and joints. According to reviews published on PubMed and clinical experience documented in texts such as *Dermal Fillers: Facial Anatomy and Injection Techniques* (Braz & Sakuma, 2021), it is a safe, resorbable material with minimal adverse reactions when applied correctly.
That said, it all depends on the technique and the specialist. That is why it is essential to consult a practitioner who has a thorough understanding of facial anatomy and tailors the treatment to your needs.
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My conclusion: the best lip augmentation is the one you can’t tell
In the end, our patient left happy with her new lip. When she looked in the mirror, she said something I love to hear:
“It feels as though I’ve always had them like this!”
That is exactly what a well-executed lip augmentation should achieve. If you’d like to enhance your smile without losing your natural look, a bespoke hyaluronic acid treatment could be your best option.
Would you like to find out if this treatment is right for you? You can write to us or visit our clinic for a no-obligation consultation. We’ll explain everything at your own pace and work with you to achieve the results you’ve always dreamed of.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lip Augmentation
Does lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid hurt?
No, it doesn’t usually hurt. A local anaesthetic (such as a cream) is applied, and you’ll only feel slight pressure or very gentle pricks during the procedure
How long do the results last?
The effects of hyaluronic acid usually last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the type of product, your metabolism and aftercare
When should I have a touch-up?
It depends on the individual case, but it is often recommended to review the treatment between 9 and 12 months later. In some cases, a follow-up appointment after 20 days allows for any necessary adjustments to be made
Will the result look natural?
Yes. If a professional uses the right amount and respects your natural proportions, the enhancement can look very natural. A personalised technique helps to avoid an unnatural look.
What aftercare should I follow after the treatment?
- Avoid touching or pressing on your lips, unless instructed to do so by your doctor.
- Sleep with your head slightly raised to reduce swelling.
- Avoid very hot or spicy foods and do not smoke for at least the first 24–48 hours.
What side effects are possible?
The most common side effects are swelling, redness or small bruises, which disappear within a few days. In very rare cases, infections or adverse reactions may occur, which is why it is essential to use approved hyaluronic acid and a qualified practitioner
What if I don't like the result or it's not fitted properly?
Hyaluronic acid is biodegradable, and there is a product called hyaluronidase that can dissolve it if you want to adjust it. It also helps to safely touch up minor imperfections
Will the product remain in place permanently, or will it be encapsulated?
Most hyaluronic acid is reabsorbed, but if a large amount is injected or the procedure is repeated frequently, small encapsulated residues may remain that do not disappear completely. This is rare and can usually be avoided with the right technique
Can I kiss or exercise after the treatment?
Yes, but it is recommended that you wait 24 to 48 hours before kissing passionately or doing any exercise that puts pressure on your lips. This helps the product to set properly without any risk.
How many vials are usually used for a course of treatment?
Usually, one vial or less is used on the lips. With time and regular touch-ups, you may need less product for subsequent treatments
Skin Esthetic Clinic
Aesthetic medicine carried out in unauthorised centres by staff lacking formal training and qualifications poses a serious risk to our patients’ health. At Skin Esthetic, we are a clinic specialising in advanced aesthetic medicine. We undertake medical-aesthetic procedures with the utmost scientific rigour, carried out by a fully qualified team and always focused on preserving the natural look that is unique to you.
Remember, at Skin Esthetic we work so that your only concern is to think:
Why didn’t I do this sooner…?