Many patients find themselves debating between a lip lift and a lip filler. Which is best? The answer will depend on the individual’s needs and desires. Luckily, patients who would like to enhance the appearance of their lips do not need to travel to Dallas or Austin for expert cosmetic surgery. Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas offers injectables and other surgical procedures in Waco, TX.
Our face and neck treatment options include lip lift surgery to improve the aesthetic appearance of the top lip. Learn more about these treatments and the difference between a lip lift and filler below.
What Is a Lip Lift?
A lip lift is a great procedure to treat aging lips. Ideally, when your lips are open, you should be able to see around three to four millimeters of upper teeth. As people get older, the ligaments around the lips stretch and the upper lip begins to sag, making that space non-existent.
A lip lift shortens the space between the bottom of the nose and the upper lip, returning the mouth to its natural shape, improving the red show and can help with shaping the cupids bow. It is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that can be performed in the office under local anesthesia.
What Is Lip Filler?
Also known as lip injections, lip filler uses hyaluronic acid (HA), a naturally occurring substance found in the human body. HA is injected into the lips to make them appear plumper and fuller. Fillers also can be used to adjust the appearance of a patient’s cheeks, chin, or nose. They can be applied as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with surgery.
Getting lip filler is a quick in-office procedure. Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas uses a topical anesthetic to numb the treatment area and minimize pain. Some mild bruising and swelling after the procedure are common but swelling typically goes away after 48 hours.
Lip Lift vs. Filler
The most obvious difference between a lip lift and a lip filler is how long the results will last. Lip filler is an injection treatment that typically lasts about 8 to 18 months. Results will vary. In some patients, a filler lasts a little longer, and in others, it dissolves more quickly. A lip lift offers a more permanent result.
Lip filler also is used to help accentuate the natural areas of fullness in the lips, as well as the natural borders. In the past, filler was associated with volume. But lip filler has changed for the better in recent years. Placing filler in the right areas and amount can provide the patient with a natural, youthful appearance.
Book a Consultation Today
So how do you choose between a lip lift and lip filler? The best way for you to decide between these two procedures is to come into the office and talk through the look you want to achieve. At Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas, you will never be pressured into a procedure that is not right for you.
We believe facial plastic surgery can greatly enhance the lives of our patients, but also feel strongly that it must be the right procedure at the right time. Our job is to give you the information you need so you can make the best decision for you. Led by Dr. Charles Guy, the medical team specializes in plastic surgery services from the collarbone up, with extensive experience in lip lifts and fillers. We are well known throughout Waco and the surrounding area for our advanced techniques and top-notch patient care. For more information about our cosmetic surgery services in central Texas, contact us or request a consultation today.