Lip fillers disappear in a very short time - is there a different method where lip filling is more permanent?

Question

Since the natural state of my lips looks very thin, I have had fillers (juvederm) for about 3 years, but normally it should last for at least six months, but it decreases immediately in 4 months and I have to renew it more often than it should.My question is, is there a different method where lip filling is more permanent?

Jacob Tower, MD · Answer

Hello, hope you are well. Lip fillers are just one of many types of augmentation. The major drawbacks of fillers are that they are not permanent (as you are well aware), and they behave like liquids that can migrate and dissipate. They often feel lumpy when initially placed, and sometimes inexperienced injectors use products that are not ideal for the lips. Although permanent, I highly advise against injectable silicone because it migrates and many patients end up requiring it to be removed years later (a challenging and uncomfortable procedure). Rarely, there can be complications from vascular occlusion if a blood vessel is obstructed by filler placement. One of the reasons filler treatments are so common is because a very wide swath of medical providers can offer them. However, there are excellent, durable options for lip augmentation as well, but only achievable with surgery. Implants made of very soft silicone, fat grafting, or alternative tissue grafting are probably the most common options. Depending on the dimensions and aesthetic features of the patient's lips, I sometimes offer both a lip lift combined with augmentation for the most attractive appearance. See a surgeon who offers fillers, surgical augmentation, and lip lifts to get the least biased opinion on the best option for augmentation for you.
Best,Dr. Tower

Leo McCafferty, MD · Answer

The short answer to your question is that there certainly are more permanent options for lip filler.  However, you should proceed cautiously.  Believe it or not there was a time when thin lips were all the rage.  The most important thing with lip enhancement is a very natural look.  I would recommend you see a board certified plastic surgeon that is experienced in facial rejuvenation to discuss options.  Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear emmatyler,
I perform a lot of lip injections with fillers such as juvederm and it works great. Many times I need to put more in one side than the other to attempt to even out the vermillion border (The red line of the lip). This helps provide more symmetry at times.For patients looking for a more long lasting result, I recommend fat grafting. That is, using your own bodies fat to make your lips naturally look more shapely. The bonus is that the results last many many years.
In general, I avoid using permanent prosthesis because I find that the lips are such dynamic and sensitive structures, the end result is not natural.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Robert T. Buchanan, MD (retired) · Answer

Juvéderm, in any form, should last a minimum of about 10 months up to a year and a half. This depends on which type of Juvederm filter you were using. It sounds as though your body has learned the structure of the filler and attacks it, removing it faster than normal. The first thing that you need to do is switch the type of filler. Juvéderm makes two different types of fillers, one based on hyalacross and the other based on vycross technology. If you have been using Ultra, I would switch to Vollure  and see if it lasts longer. If you were using Vollure or Volbella, I would switch to Ultra. Make sure you discuss this at length with your injector and that that person is a true expert in use of different fillers.

Lip fillers disappear in a very short time - is there a different method where lip filling is more permanent?

Answers (4)

Answer: Lip Filler Longevity

Answer: Lip Filler Longevity

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Everything you need to know about Lip Implants

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Lip fillers disappear in a very short time - is there a different method where lip filling is more permanent?

Answers (4)

Answer: Lip Filler Longevity

Answer: Lip Filler Longevity

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Lip Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.