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| Lip Augmentation and Reduction (Lip Enhancement) |
| What is Lip Surgeries and Procedures? Lips are an important part of our lives. They frame your smile, are used to kiss the ones you love, and are the key to whistling happy tunes. What is the ideal shape and volume of the lips:  Ideal lips have a certain size and shape. On profile, the lips should have a gentle S-shaped curve between the lips and chin-with a 4mm depression existing between these two structures. Although, the nose and chin typically set the strength of your profile, Lip Augmentation does have the ability to add balance to this area. Enhancing the size and shape of the lips may aesthetically improve the entire lower 1/3 of the face. Arrow indicates the 4mm groove that should exist between the lips and the chin on profile. Ideally shaped lips have other characteristics, if these Aesthetic principles are violated, the lips may appear to large or out of balance with the entire face resulting in a less desirable outcome for the Lip Augmentation. Vertical lines imaginably drawn down from the inner colored portion of the eyes delineate the overall size of the lips. The upper lip should be no more than 75% the size of the lower lip. This assures that there is an overall pout to the lips-no matter how plump or full they are. Should this aesthetic ratio be violated-the lips will look out of proportion and the entire mouth will appear quite oddly shaped. It is typical to loose mass in the lips with age there by giving the illusion that the upper lip, or more precisely the space between the upper lip and the nasal tip, has become elongated. This gives the lower face an aged and stern look that is not aesthetically pleasing. With the increasing popularity of various cosmetic surgery procedures, including lip surgery, it is imperative that the prospective patient research and understand different issues like what the procedure can and cannot treat, inherent risks, costs, and so on. When considering any form of cosmetic surgery, it is important to have a good understanding of the procedure before making a decision. Take some time to view the introductory information we have provided on Lip Re-shaping. While the information contained in this website will provide you with a basic understanding of the procedure, it may not answer all of your questions. To get complete answers to the questions you are seeking, we recommend that you contact us. I- Lip Augmentation: What is Lip Augmentation or lip enhancement?  Some people are satisfied with the look of their lips while others want to make their lips fuller. Due to age and other factors, many people have lost volume in their lips, leaving them aged and wrinkled. Lip augmentation can enhance or restore a fuller shape to your lips and help you get fuller, more sensual look and more luscious lips. Lip augmentation is a procedure that involves injecting a cosmetic filler into the lips in order to enhance its size and shape. Implants can also be used to augment the lips. Lip augmentation can temporarily provide enhancement to the lips appearance. The body eventually absorbs the injected material and for those wanting to maintain their desired results, they need to receive multiple treatments over time. Am I a Good Candidate for Lip Augmentation? There are many reasons why a person would want to undergo lip enhancement. This includes: - Achieving a more sensuous look Providing more balance to facial features. - Restoring lost volume and shape. - Increasing self-confidence in their appearance Types of Fillers Used in Lip Augmentation There are various methods used to augment the lips, including the use of implants. The most common and easiest way to increase lip size is with injectable fillers. The following are just some of the more common fillers used. Each of these fillers has its own set of benefits and risks: a- Collagen: A protein found in our bodies, collagen provides support to various areas of the body, including the lips. For cosmetic surgery purposes, collagen is produced from purified bovine tissue collagen. This product can be produced in various thicknesses to meet individual patient needs. However, a skin test for allergic reactions is required before receiving collagen because collagen is of animal source. b- Restylane: This product is a non-animal, biodegradable gel based on hyaluronic acid, another substance found in our own bodies. Because Restylane is non-animal based, an allergic reaction occurring is highly unlikely. c- Fat: Fat from one’s own body is another form of filler used to plump the lips. Because the fat comes from the patient’s body, there is no risk of any allergic reaction occurring. How is this procedure performed?  Lip augmentation with injectable fillers is a quick and easy procedure. The procedure typically lasts about 30 minutes, depending on the patient. Lip augmentation is relatively painless, because a local anesthetic is usually administered. Variations to the techniques are used during lip augmentation, depending upon the type of filler. For collagen injections, a skin test is performed weeks before the procedure. This helps determine if any allergic reaction could possibly occur. If the test finds there is no risk of allergy, the collagen is then injected. For Restylane, no skin test is required. The gel is injected into the inside of the upper or lower lips in tiny amounts with a very fine needle. As a result, it adds volume and shape to the lips. During fat injections, both the donor and the recipient sites are treated with anesthesia. Then, fat is withdrawn with a cannula (a surgical suction instrument) or a syringe. When harvested and prepared, the fat is injected into the patient’s lips.  How long do the results of lip augmentation last? The results of lip augmentation vary from patient to patient. However, bear in mind with any injectable fillers used for lip augmentation, results are only temporary because the body eventually absorbs the material. Results also depend upon the type of filler used. The following are the various longevity periods for the more common fillers: Fat: The majority of patients notice half of their lip fullness disappearing within 2 to 3 years after the procedure. However, some patients have received fuller lips that last many years. Collagen: The life of collagen injections depend upon the patient’s lifestyle and physical characteristics as well as the part of the body treated. The areas of the body more affected by muscle movement will experience a faster disappearance when collagen is used. Typically, lip augmentation lasts anywhere from three to six months. Restylane: Clinical experience with Restylane has shown this product can remain effective for six to nine months. A touch-up treatment, performed a few weeks after the initial treatment, is recommended to achieve better results and adds to the lips’ duration. What are risks associated with lip augmentation?  Various risks are associated with the different types of fillers used for enhancing lips. Risks vary depending upon the patient’s reaction to the fillers and the patient’s healing abilities. Collagen: The risk involved with collagen is the possibility of an allergic reaction, which is reduced through skin tests. Although the substance is derived from purified bovine tissue, there have been concerns about mad cow disease being transmitted through collagen injections. That risk is mitigated, however, because collagen cattle are kept in quarantined herds. Restylane: While infrequent, potential side effects associated with the use of Restylane include: redness, bruising, swelling, tenderness and moderate pain. Side effects typically dissipate within a few days. Fat: Even though there is no risk of allergic reaction, there is always the possibility of infection or other infrequent complications. What are the typical costs associated with lip augmentation? Often the price says nothing about the quality of the work. Most multicenter clinics charge much more than private doctors — their advertising budget is more and the owner of the clinic has to take his 20% or 30% off the top. In my opinion, you are less likely to get a quality procedures at these multi-center locations. Although price is a factor when deciding on surgery, the most important factor is that you feel you are getting a good quality, natural-looking result from the procedure. Lip augmentation costs are variable according to the type of used filler. Usually the cost is ranging from 500 to 1500 U.S. dollars. For collagen injection, the cost is 500 U.S. dollars, for Restylane injection, the cost is 1000 U.S. dollars and for fat injection, the cost is 1500 U.S. dollars. When dealing with costs, you also need to take into consideration the fact that the procedure may need to be repeated after months or years. Most medical insurance providers do not cover the lip augmentation procedure. II - Lip Reduction:  Not all of us want larger, fuller lips. Although it may seem like every aging starlet is having her lips augmented, many people feel that their lips are too big, and want them reduced. Young people with larger or fuller than average lips are sometimes teased by their classmates and feel insecure. This is called "Double lip". You can have this done on just one lip, if one is more prominent than the other. Lip reduction surgery is relatively minor, however, lip reduction can make a big difference in how you look and feel about yourself. Are You a Candidate for Lip Reduction? Lip reduction is surgery to remove excess lip tissue and reduce the size of overly large lips. If you feel that your lips are too large and overshadow the rest of your face, lip reduction surgery may be able to help. If you are in good health and do not have any uncontrolled conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, and if you have realistic expectations for the surgery, you are probably a good candidate for lip reduction surgery. You must be mentally and emotionally stable to undergo any cosmetic procedure. This operation requires patience and stability to deal with the healing period. What to Expect at Your Consultation and Preoperative Appointment You will discuss your goals and you will disclose all information regarding your health at the consultation. Do not hold any information back like complete list of all medications and over-the-counter supplements you take. You will discuss the various looks one can be achieved and the amount of lip tissue should be removed. We shall explain the techniques, incision placements, or methods that may be most appropriate for you and should discuss all the risks associated with lip reduction with you, as well. We may make suggestions about what can be realistically done with your lips. You will also discuss the type of anesthesia that will be used for your procedure and where the surgery will be done. The consultation is also the time to discuss the fees for lip reduction surgery. You should be given a preoperative information packet that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date. The packet should include a list of all medications you should avoid before your surgery, such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Your instructions should cover what to do with any prescription drugs you take. You may need to have blood tests done and you may be asked to have a general physical if you are above a certain age or if you have any health condition such as asthma, high blood pressure, or diabetes. How a Lip Reduction Is Performed: - Most lip reduction procedures are performed under local or regional anesthetics, possibly with oral sedation. However, some surgeons may use light sleep sedation. - A lip reduction procedure normally takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to perform. It may be performed in a hospital, a freestanding surgery center, or in our office. - We will make an incision the length of your lip on inside of your mouth, then remove a strip of lip tissue or mucus membrane from the lip and suture the incision closed. This will thin the lip and pull in slightly inward, making it less full. Both lips (if you are having both done) will usually be done at once. The sutures used may be dissolvable ones or ones that must be removed in a few days.  - Another technique, is used to reduce the upper lip height. We will make an excision of excess skin from the base of the nose and upper part of the lip.  - You will be ready to go home, usually in about 2 hours. Lip Reduction Surgery Recovery - You may be groggy and in a bit of pain the first days after your surgery. You will have to take it easy and sleep on two pillows to keep your head elevated for a week or two. - Your lips will be swollen, but this should resolve itself in the first few weeks. - You may also be bruise, but this will go away, as well. - Because of the incisions in your mouth, your diet may be restricted until they heal. You may be told to avoid acid foods like citrus fruits and anything with vinegar and may be told to thoroughly wash all fresh fruits and vegetables. You may be instructed to rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash several times a day. Resist the urge to run your tongue over your incisions and do not pick at the sutures! - Sutures will usually be taken out a week to 10 days postoperatively, if they were the non-dissolvable kind, but if Sutures of dissolvable type, they will dissolve spontaneously. Risks and Complications of Lip Reduction All surgery has risks and complications. With lip reduction, these risks include allergic reaction to the anesthetic used (even local anesthetics) and infection. There is the chance that your lips swell. Numbness of the lips is possible, it usually subsides within the first few weeks up to 3 months. What are the typical costs associated with lip reduction? Often the price says nothing about the quality of the work. Most multicenter clinics charge much more than private doctors — their advertising budget is more and the owner of the clinic has to take his 20% or 30% off the top. In my opinion, you are less likely to get a quality procedures at these multi-center locations. Although price is a factor when deciding on surgery, the most important factor is that you feel you are getting a good quality, natural-looking result from the procedure. Fees for lip reduction can range from 1000 to 1500 U.S. dollars. The fee largely depends upon the technique, as well as where the surgery will be performed and what anesthesia will be used. Frequently asked questions from patients when considering undergoing lip surgeries?! Personality analysis by lips?  "The mouth is related to communication, speech and the sensual appetites like eating and sex. The lips relate to our ability to nurture others in loving relationships. Many woman enlarge their lips as it makes them look more seductive. - Upper lip is considerably thinner than the lower lip: an inability to reciprocate in relationships. - Thinner lower lip: an overly giving nature. - Full lips that are round: caring and sensitive. - Upper and lower lips in equal proportion: a well meaning and communicative personality. - Large lips: expensive tastes, generous, witty. - Large mouth: very vocal under pressure, needs to verbalize their issues. - Small lips tightly pursed: anal personality, generally self-centered and controlling. - Mouth with downward slope: discontent, difficult personality. - Mouth with upward curve: pleasant disposition, one who laughs at life. - Narrow lips: detached, lives more or less an internalized life, never able to enjoy the pleasure of sharing deeper feelings. - Teeth: Many missing teeth generally indicate emotional problems". Q - What is ideal shape of the lip? A - Actually, there is different shapes differ by race, age and personal variations. So, there is no ideal lip shape but the ideal lip for you is that proportional to your other facial features. On profile, the lips should have a gentle S-shaped curve between the lips and chin-with a 4mm depression existing between these two structures. Q - Is it possible to rebuild completely lost lip (by trauma)? A - Of course it could be done by local flaps from other lip or the cheeks. Q - What is the duration of the Lip Augmentation procedure? A - Ranging from half to one hour. Q - What is the duration of the Lip reduction procedure? A - Ranging from half to 2 hours. Q - What is the type of anesthesia, and when I can return to normal life? A - According to your age. Local anesthesia with or without sedation if adult or General anesthesia if child, and you can practice your normal life 2 hours after the finishing the procedure. Q - What are the symptoms that may occur in the first five days after lip surgery? A - Soreness which could be managed by pain killer’s medications and there may be edema or swelling of the lower half of the face. Q - What are the guarantees that the success of the process? A - There is no doubt that the followers of the medical instructions and close follow up visits are the main factors for the success of any surgical procedure. If not, the process to achieve the agreed outcomes before, the process repeats at reduced cost. Q - When can we get the final results? A - For lip augmentation the results appear immediately, for lip reduction the final results is achieved after the first three weeks. Q - Is the enhanced lip seems naturally? A - Yes. Q - What is ideal age for lip augmentation? lip reduction? A - Lip enhancement could be done at any age. Q - If you are not Egyptian, What is the minimum period for follow up? A - For lip augmentation , just one day. for lip reduction, five days. Q - What is the non-surgical lip enhancement? A - By injection of fillers. Q - What are the contraindications of lip surgery? A - There are no absolute contraindications but the patients should inform their surgeons about any allergies, serious medical conditions, and medications they may be taking. Q - Where will the lip surgery be performed? A - In hospital if general anesthesia is needed (lip reduction or lip augmentation with fat) or in outpatient bases (clinic) if local anesthesia will be used (lip augmentation by fillers as collagen or restylane). Q - In my case, what technique is most appropriate in helping me achieve my cosmetic goal? A - It depend on the your age and your preference. Q - How much does lip surgery cost and what elements factor into that cost like hospital fees, anesthesia, and so on? A - Ranging from 500 to 1500 U.S. dollars. Medical insurance dose not cover lip enhancement procedures. Q - What is the surgeon’s level of experience in performing lip surgery? A - Consultant or Doctoral in Plastic surgery. Q - What percentage of patients experience complications with lip surgery? A - 2-5% |
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| Summary of Lip Surgery (Augmentation / Reduction): The time of the procedure:from half to two hours. Type of anesthesia: local anesthesia +/- sedation or General. Location:hospital or clinic without postoperative hospital stay. Expected Side effects:Temporary swelling and pain. Recovery time:return to work after 2 hours and the final outcome immediately for augmentation and within 3weeks for reduction. Cost: according to procedure ranging from 500 to 1500 U.S. dollars, or 2500 to 8,000 Egyptian pounds. Results:Lip Augmentation: ranging from 6 -18 months according to filler material. Lip Reduction: a lifelong. |
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- May be this is too expensive in your country. Or just you look for privacy and discretion. May be you are considering having this surgery abroad, but with safety and confidence. ENTER and know all what you have to know about safe and affordable plastic surgery!! Should you have any questions, please feel free toContact Us! |
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