If you feel like larger, fuller lips could improve your appearance and self-confidence, you might be considering lip enhancement (also known as lip augmentation). You have some different types of procedures from which to choose. You and your cosmetic or plastic surgeon or dermatologist will decide which procedure is right for you based on the kind of results you want and other personal factors.

You’ll basically be looking at two categories of lip augmentation procedures: injectable fillers and synthetic implants. Within these categories, you’ll also have more options (namely, the type of substance used) to make sure you get the type of treatment that best suits you.

Here are some of the things you and your doctor will discuss as you choose a lip enhancement procedure:
• Do you want permanent or temporary results? If you’re certain that you want permanent lip enhancement, implants might be a good choice. Injectable fillers will breakdown over time. While you can easily maintain your fuller lips with repeated injections, you may prefer the lasting results of implants. If, however, you’re not ready to commit to implants, fillers are a great way to enjoy fuller lips and find the look you’re happiest with.
• Do you prefer a minimally invasive procedure, or are you willing to undergo surgery? Injectable procedures are much less involved than surgery to insert lip implants. It’s not that injections are entirely without risk—anytime your skin is broken and a new substance is introduced, you have some risk of infection or allergic reaction—but these risks are smaller than the incisions you’ll need for implant surgery. Though not a major procedure, implants are more invasive than fillers and may involve a bit more recovery.
• How much money do you want to spend? Discuss you price range with your doctor and what procedures are available within that budget.
• Are you allergic to any of the injected materials? Your doctor will test the substance you’re thinking about using to make sure you’re not allergic to it. If you are allergic to that filler, you have others to try.

If you’d like to learn more about lip enhancement, see our information page.