Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in the human body, mainly in connective tissues and skin. It works as a moisturizer and filler, helping to retain water and keep the skin hydrated and plump. Due to these properties, hyaluronic acid has become a popular ingredient in aesthetic treatments, especially for lip augmentation, where it acts by providing volume and structure, while promoting water retention for a more natural and rejuvenated appearance.
Using hyaluronic acid for lip augmentation offers multiple benefits. In addition to providing instant volume, it improves the shape and structure of the lips in a subtle and natural way. Unlike other fillers, hyaluronic acid minimizes the risk of allergic reactions, given that it is a natural substance in the body. It also promotes lip hydration, resulting in a softer, juicier appearance. Another benefit is its reversibility; If the results are not to the patient’s liking, they can be undone by applying an enzyme that dissolves hyaluronic acid.
How is lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid performed?
Prior assessment with a specialist
Before proceeding with any lip augmentation treatment with hyaluronic acid, it is crucial to have a prior consultation with a specialist. During this session, the specialist will assess the general health of the patient’s lips and will be informed about their expectations and the results they would like to achieve. This moment also serves to inform the patient about the procedure, possible side effects and the expected result. The consultation is essential to ensure that both, doctor and patient, are aligned and to personalize the treatment according to the patient’s specific needs. Generally, younger patients are looking for striking lips, and more mature patients prefer to look good in a more discreet way, recovering the firmness of the lips of their youth and preserving their original facial features (“I want to continue looking like myself”).
Hyaluronic Acid Injection Technique
The lip augmentation procedure is performed by carefully injecting hyaluronic acid using fine needles or cannulas. The specialist will apply the filler to strategic areas of the lips to create volume, improve contour, and correct asymmetries. The precise injection technique depends on the desired effect and the natural structure of the patient’s lips.
Duration of Procedure and Aftercare
The lip augmentation procedure is typically quick, usually being completed in less than an hour. Following the injection, the patient may experience some swelling or bruising, which is temporary and should subside within a few days. It is recommended to avoid heavy makeup, exposure to extreme heat, and vigorous exercise immediately after treatment to facilitate optimal recovery. Results are visible immediately, although the final appearance is best appreciated once the swelling has subsided. Aftercare is essential to ensure the durability and aesthetics of the treatment.
Hyaluronic Acid Lip Augmentation Results
Fuller, More Defined, and Hydrated Lips
Hyaluronic acid lip augmentation treatment offers immediate results, providing patients with fuller, more defined, and noticeably hydrated lips. Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally present in the body, known for its ability to retain water. This property not only increases the volume of the lips but also improves their texture and appearance, leaving them soft and juicy.
Natural and Harmonious Appearance
One of the main benefits of hyaluronic acid lip augmentation is its ability to create a natural and harmonious appearance. Unlike other synthetic fillers, hyaluronic acid integrates fluidly with the lip tissues, allowing the lips to move and feel as if the filler were part of their natural structure. Specialists can adjust the injection amount and technique to tailor the results to the patient’s anatomy and expectations, ensuring that the lips are not only larger, but also complement the facial features in a balanced way.
Improved self-esteem and confidence
In addition to the aesthetic benefits, lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid can have a significant impact on a patient’s self-esteem and confidence. Many individuals seek this treatment not only to improve the appearance of their lips but also to feel more confident in their personal image. Lip enhancement aestheticsLip augmentation with hyaluronic acid is often translated into increased confidence when speaking, smiling and expressing oneself, which can open up new opportunities both personally and professionally.
In what cases is lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid recommended?
Thin or low-volume lips
Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid is especially recommended for people with naturally thin lips or those that have lost volume over time. This treatment provides an effective and natural-looking solution to increase the size and fullness of the lips, adjusting their proportion with the rest of the facial features and improving the overall contour of the mouth.
Perioral wrinkles
As we age, it is common to develop fine lines or wrinkles around the lips, known as perioral lines. Hyaluronic acid not only increases the volume of the lips but can also help to smooth out these wrinkles, restoring a more youthful appearance and reducing the visible signs of aging around the mouth.
Asymmetries or imperfections in the lips
Hyaluronic acid treatment is ideal for correcting minor asymmetries or imperfections in the lips that may be the result of genetic differences, accidents or previous surgeries. The ability to shape and structure hyaluronic acid allows specialists to precisely adjust the shape and balance of the lips, achieving a more symmetrical and harmonious result.
Desire to improve facial harmony
Not only for correcting imperfections, lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid is a popular choice among those who wish to improve their overall facial aesthetics. This treatment can be part of a broader facial rejuvenation plan, helping patients achieve a fresher and more revitalized appearance, which in turn can improve their self-perception and social interaction.
Contraindications and risks of lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid
Medical contraindications
Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid is not suitable for everyone. People with certain medical conditions, such as active infections, bleeding disorders, or known allergies to hyaluronic acid components, should avoid this procedure. In addition, it is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is crucial to consult with a doctor to assess the complete medical history before proceeding with the treatment.
Possible side effects such as bruising, swelling, or redness
Although lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid is generally safe, it can carry some temporary side effects. The most common include bruising, swelling, and redness at the injection site. These effects are usually mild and disappear within a few days. In rare cases, nodules or irregularities may occur that require additional treatment.
Importance of choosing a qualified professional
To minimize risks and ensure the best results, it is essential to choose a qualified and experienced professional. At Clínica Magnasalud, this treatment is only provided by health specialists who have a degree in Medicine, as well as a master’s degree or official postgraduate degree in aesthetic medicine that accredits them to provide medical aesthetic treatments. A competent specialist not only knows how to adapt the procedure to the specific needs of each patient, but is also prepared to handle any complications that may arise.
Frequently asked questions
Is the treatment painful?
Lip augmentation treatment with hyaluronic acid is generally considered to be relatively painless. There are techniques to anesthetize the lip and to minimize any discomfort during the injection. Patients usually describe a sensation of mild itching or pressure, but not acute pain.
Does it leave marks?
In some cases, bruising occurs, which is easy to conceal with makeup, and which can also be reduced with a cream prescribed by the doctor during the consultation.
How long does the effect of hyaluronic acid last?
The effects of hyaluronic acid in lip augmentation can last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the patient’s individual metabolism and the type of hyaluronic acid used. Over time, the body naturally absorbs hyaluronic acid, so touch-up sessions may be necessary to maintain the desired volume.
When are the results noticeable?
The results of the treatment are seen immediately. During the first 2-3 days, swelling may appear. After 3 months, the first peak of results is noticeable, since hyaluronic acid absorbs water from the body.. The second peak of results can be seen in the sixth month. From month 6 to 12, the results remain the same, and from month 12, the hyaluronic acid begins to be reabsorbed by the body and disappear from the lip.
How much does the treatment cost?
Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid costs €350. The price may vary depending on the brand of hyaluronic acid recommended by the specialist (Teoxan or Stylage), as well as the complementary treatments that the patient wants to undergo, such as wrinkle filling or bioplasty in other parts of the face.
Is it necessary to repeat the treatment?
To maintain the volume and shape of the lips, it is likely that the treatment will need to be repeated. The frequency of touch-ups depends on how the patient’s body absorbs hyaluronic acid, but typically every 6 to 12 months is recommended.
What care should I take after treatment?
After treatment, it is important to avoid excessive exposure to heat (such as saunas and sunbathing) and strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours. It is also recommended not to apply direct pressure on the treated lips to avoid displacing the hyaluronic acid. Maintaining good hydration and following the specialist’s post-treatment instructions will help maximize the duration of the results.
Is it reversible?
Hyaluronic acid disappears after a year, reabsorbed by the body. If you want to reverse the results before that time, there are injectables to dissolve the hyaluronic acid and accelerate its reabsorption.
What influence do top brand products have?
At Clínica Magnasalud, lip fillers are made using Teoxane brand hyaluronic acid, backed by the experience of our specialists. Low-cost brands are usually fillers with a hard and artificial feel – when you run your finger over your lip you notice “balls” of filler – which also disappear – reabsorbed by the body – between 9 and 12 months.
With Teoxane we obtain a filler that feels fleshy, uniform and natural to the touch and mobility. Visually, we enhance the shine and hydration of the lips. And as for its duration, the results last after 12 months. Ideal for cases in which we want to maintain a consistent image throughout the year.
Can I use half a vial?
No. At Clínica Magnasalud we do not store the vials, since they become contaminated over time, generating a high risk of infection and lip necrosis.
Can I share half a vial with another person?
No. When using two syringes on the same vial there is a risk of infection through blood contact.
Differences between lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid and other methods
Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid is distinguished from other methods mainly by its naturalness and safety. Unlike collagen implants or injections, hyaluronic acid offers a temporary effect that can last from six to twelve months, which is ideal for those looking for flexibility in their aesthetics. Furthermore, its ability to integrate with the lip tissues guarantees a more uniform and less invasive result. Compared to other techniques, the hyaluronic acid procedure is quick, usually performed in less than an hour, and patients can resume their daily activities immediately afterwards, with few side effects.
Free assessment
In any case, before the treatment, we carry out a free assessment to see if the patient can undergo the treatment without risks. We then discuss what concerns the patient about her appearance, and what results she would like to achieve. We then apply the treatment, give some guidelines for the following 24-48 hours and finally give a free check-up appointment after 2-3 weeks to ensure that the treatment is properly assimilated.