Skip to content 
Full, well-defined, and beautifully shaped lips are a classic symbol of youth and sensuality. For individuals who feel that their lips are naturally thin, have lost volume over time, or are asymmetrical, modern cosmetic procedures offer a range of fantastic solutions to enhance the size and shape of the lips. The approach to lip augmentation can be either non-surgical, using injectable dermal fillers, or surgical, with procedures like a lip lift. Understanding the different options available can help you choose the best path to achieving the beautiful, natural-looking pout you desire.
The Most Popular Option: Non-Surgical Lip Fillers
By far the most common and popular method for lip augmentation is the use of injectable dermal fillers.
- How it Works: A skilled injector uses a fine needle to strategically place a smooth, gel-like dermal filler into the body of the lips to add volume, and into the border of the lips to enhance definition and shape. The most common fillers used for the lips are made from hyaluronic acid (HA), a substance that occurs naturally in the body and helps to provide hydration and volume. Popular brands include Juvéderm® and Restylane®.
- The Benefits:
- Immediate, Natural-Looking Results: You will see the results instantly. A skilled injector focuses on creating a result that is in beautiful proportion with your other facial features, avoiding an “overdone” look.
- Customizable: The amount of filler used can be precisely controlled to achieve a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic plumping effect, depending on your goals.
- Minimally Invasive with Little Downtime: The procedure is performed in the office and typically takes only 15-30 minutes. You may experience some temporary swelling and bruising, but most people can return to their normal activities immediately.
- Temporary: The results are long-lasting but not permanent. HA fillers typically last for 6-12 months in the lips, after which the procedure can be repeated. This allows you to adjust your look over time.
As the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), a leading professional organization, explains, the use of HA fillers for lip enhancement has a very high rate of patient satisfaction.
The Surgical Option: The Lip Lift
For some patients, a surgical lip lift may be a more appropriate and permanent solution.
- Who is a good candidate? A lip lift is often a great option for individuals who have a long space between the base of their nose and the top of their upper lip (a long philtrum). As we age, this space can lengthen, causing the upper lip to roll inward and appear thinner.
- How it Works: In a lip lift procedure, the surgeon makes a small, carefully hidden incision at the base of the nose in the shape of a “bullhorn.” A small strip of skin is removed, and the remaining skin is then lifted and sutured into a higher position. This shortens the philtrum, rolls the pink part of the upper lip outward (the vermillion), and creates a more youthful, pronounced “cupid’s bow.”
- The Benefits: The results are permanent. It provides a very natural-looking enhancement and can improve the amount of your upper teeth that show when you smile, which is a key characteristic of a youthful smile.
Choosing the Right Option for You
The best way to enhance your lips depends on your unique anatomy and your aesthetic goals. A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon or an expert injector is the essential first step. They can assess your facial structure and help you decide whether non-surgical fillers or a surgical lip lift is the better option to achieve your desired outcome.
Your Dallas and Plano Lip Augmentation Experts
Whether you are looking for a subtle, natural enhancement or a more noticeable increase in volume, our team can help you achieve beautiful results. For patients in the Dallas and Plano, TX areas, the expert team at RH Plastic Surgery offers a full range of solutions for lip augmentation. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.