Research on lip fillers, primarily focusing on hyaluronic acid (HA) derivatives, reveals their significant role in enhancing lip aesthetics, improving symmetry, and correcting age-related volume loss. Here’s a summary of key findings:
Comparison of Fillers: Various filling agents, including HA, are used to augment the lips and correct perioral rhytides. The selection of the appropriate agent depends on achieving a natural look while avoiding overcorrection. The goal is to harmonize the form of the upper lip with the patient’s features and to create a fuller lower lip (Sarnoff, Saini, & Gotkin, 2008).
Long-Term Results with Agarose Gel: Agarose gel, a newer filler, has shown promising results for lip augmentation over a 3-year period, with immediate clinical improvement and minimal adverse reactions. The gradual decline to baseline over about 5 months indicates its temporary effect (Scarano, Carinci, & Piattelli, 2009).
Innovative Techniques and Fillers: Techniques using small-particle HA fillers (e.g., Restylane® Silk) for lip augmentation and correction of perioral rhytides highlight the importance of understanding anatomical features, injection sites, and managing complications. These fillers provide a natural appearance and are well-suited for enhancing lip shape and volume, as well as correcting fine perioral lines (Chiu et al., 2016).
Adverse Effects: A study on the illegal use of oil-soluble vitamins A and E for lip augmentation emphasized the dangers of unregistered products and unprofessional practices. Patients developed lipogranulomas requiring further intervention, underscoring the need for caution and adherence to approved fillers and techniques (Kamouna et al., 2014).
Patient Satisfaction: A postmarket study on the use of a 15 mg/mL HA dermal filler (Juvéderm® VOLBELLA® with Lidocaine) for lip enhancement revealed high patient satisfaction with aesthetic improvements. Minimal discomfort and a high return to social engagements on the same day were noted, showcasing the filler’s efficacy and tolerability (Philipp-Dormston et al., 2014).
In summary, HA fillers are at the forefront of lip augmentation, offering effective, safe, and temporary solutions for enhancing lip aesthetics. The choice of filler and technique depends on individual patient needs and goals, with an emphasis on natural results and minimizing complications.
Aesthetic Skin Winnetka offers free virtual consultations with your favorite providers and same-day booking with all of our nurse injectors! Book a visit today.