Am I supposed to massage or stretch my lips after having PermaLip implants?

Question

I had my lip implants placed a little over 2 weeks ago and I've been reading other people's posts stating they've massaged and and stretched their lips. Is this necessary? I was not told to do so. My lips feel fine but it is still difficult to smile big or open my mouth wide

James M. Pearson, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Lip Implants may be a reasonable option for those individuals who are seeking permanent lip enhancement or for those who have not been satisfied with the longevity of effect afforded by hyaluronic acid fillers.
The Perma Facial Implant is an FDA cleared device for permanent facial augmentation. Following implant placement, there is usually a feeling of stiffness during the early phase of healing. Stretching exercises such as wide mouth opening or smiling are commonly recommended to alleviate that sensation. However, those should not be started for a few weeks, to allow for healing and to minimize the risk of implant displacement. Always check with your surgeon about his or her recommendations in your particular case.

Paul M. Parker, MD, FACS · Answer

We will usually have our patients begin stretching their lips and implants at around 2 weeks after surgery once we are assured the incisions for insertion have healed well. Check with your surgeon to see if this is something they want you to do.

Ronald Friedman, MD · Answer

I generally recommend smiling and wide mouth opening exercises (when permitted by your surgeon) to reduce the feeling of implant tightness.  Massage of the implants is generally unnecessary and may cause lateral displacement (shifting) of the implants.

Robert Peterson, MD · Answer

The lip implants massage themselves when you talk, eat, smile, frown, etc., and this is usually enough to keep the capsule that forms around them from contracting.  Everyone is different, however, so ask your surgeon if you need to do this - you may be particularly prone to capsule contracture.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Follow your surgeon's post op instructions, as he is the one monitoring your recovery.  In general, the massage is usually not necessary.

Am I supposed to massage or stretch my lips after having PermaLip implants?

Answers (5)

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