Filler

Fillers for Lip Augmentation & deep wrinkles

Fifteen years ago doctors started performing these procedures using Collagen. However Collagen is derived from cows which makes pre-testing for allergies mandatory. Furthermore with mad cows' disease still a threat Collagen use has been losing ground to non animal derived substances such as Hyaluronic acids. These acids need no previous testing for allergy and do last for six months -twice as long as Collagen. Articole is a similar substance originating from Holland that can last two to three years but I caution against its use since it is not FDA approved and has been known to leave patients with lumpy lips like a worry bead. Several other long lasting products such as Silieme or Polyachrelamide are not used at CosmeSurge for the same reasons.

What is hyaluronic acid?
This substance is naturally present in the skin. It is manufactured and sold under different brand names (Perlane, Remake). It is not derived from animals and last only six months making it very safe.

What are the side effects?
If placed too superficial it can feel lumpy to touch like a worry bee and if placed too deep it won't last but for a couple of weeks. I personally prefer to inject it a bit too superficial and perform a good manual massage to minimize lumpiness. The manufacturer recommends too deep of an injection. If it is absorbed too quickly that is even better as they are happy to sell more!

What areas can be treated?
The most common application is lip augmentation and filling of the deep fold between the cheek and the upper lip (naso-labial fold).

What to expect after the procedure…
The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. Bruising and swelling can last twenty four hours. There will be no change in sensation and no long term side effects. When healed, your lips or your skin over the fold will be soft to the touch and will feel normal. Local anesthetic creams are not enough to block the pain of the sensitive lips but special nerve blocks with a fine needle are much more effective but require special skills. There is no pain after the procedure but the lips are severely swollen for the following 12-24 hours. To minimize swelling we frequently recommend a shot of intra-muscular Voltaren.

How often do I have to redo it?
The temporary filling disappears gradually and the lips or fold returns to their original shape. You do not have to redo the procedure unless you want to.

What about fat transfer to the lips or naso-labial fold?
Using your own fat to fill the lips or facial folds can be done with the enhancement effects lasting several years. The short term swelling after the procedure can last 5-10 days. (See section on Fat transfer).