Many physical changes occur over time as a result of the natural aging process, including the thinning of the lips. As a result, many individuals decide to undergo cosmetic procedures to improve their lips for a more youthful appearance. With the help of an experienced professional, lip enhancements can yield amazing, natural results. Unfortunately, in some instances, excessive or poorly-done enhancements result in a “trout-pout,” where the upper lip is disproportionately larger than the lower lip. However, thanks to recent advancements in technology, there are many effective and safe options available for lip alterations which do not result in the “trout pout.”
Lip fillers made with hyaluronic acid are an effective and popular treatment option that plumps thin lips. They offer plastic surgeons more control, and little downtime is required for recovery. The results are also predictable and reversible. Unfortunately, most of these injectable fillers are temporary and dissolve over time. While permanent lip fillers made from calcium hydroxyapatite are available for use, any resulting imperfections are extremely difficult to fix.
Lip lifts are minor surgical procedures that remove skin or tissue underneath the nose or above the lips to raise the upper lip. There are currently three popular types of lip lifts that target the upper lip, depending on the adjustment that the patient requires. However, a major disadvantage of this technique is the resulting scar at the base of the nose from the surgical incision.
Lip implants are another option for improving thin lips. Biocompatible materials can be placed into the lips to increase their volume. However, the results from this technique can be too dramatic and potentially problematic as implants present the risk of infection, displacement, and extrusion. They may also result in scarring or distortion.
Fat grafting is a viable method of improving thinning lips. It is done by transferring fat from a donor site of the body to the lips. This procedure is relatively safe compared to implants since it uses the patient’s own tissues. The downside to the use of fat grafts is that the final results can be unpredictable as the injected fat gets absorbed by the body. Some patients end up with uneven lips due to this issue. Furthermore, the transferred fat behaves in a similar fashion to normal body fat, thus the transferred fat could potentially reflect any weight fluctuations experienced by the patient, resulting in exaggerated lumps and bumps in the lips.If you are interested in improving the appearance of your lips, the most suitable treatment option for you will be dependent on your aesthetic goals and your eligibility for each treatment. However, it is important to be aware that each of these techniques runs the risk of causing a “trout pout.” To ensure that you achieve the results you are looking for, it is crucial to find a healthcare professional that is board-certified and experienced with cosmetic lip procedures. At the Edelstein Clinic, we have a team of certified, experienced professionals. We would be happy to meet with you to help determine which technique is best suited to your individual needs and goals.
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