Lip Injections: should I go to Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologist?

Question

Hi! I ve been wanting to get my lips a bit enhanced for a while now and did go to Plastic surgeon to inject juvederm ultra plus(2 ml) two months ago,my lips were deformed, asymmetrical, had huuuuge lump and had to dissolve it in 2 days. I want to try it again and taking more time choosing dr to perform it,but I didnt find many lip injection examples at the doctors websites in my area. Do you think dermatologist is a better choice cause she/he works with fillers more often than plastic surgeons?

David Hansen, MD · Answer

Derm surgeons excel  at injections and do their own injections whereas many plastic surgeons have their nurses do their injections for them for good reason. To be fair, some plastic surgeons can do a decent job of injectable fillers and botox but why risk it.

Samuel Baharestani, MD, FACS · Answer

No matter the specialty, you should go to a professional who feels comfortable and has a lot of experience with cosmetic lip augmentation.  Sometimes, word of mouth is the best way to find a specialist who is most compatible with you.  Luckily, there are many to choose from in Southern California.  Good luck!

Young R. Cho, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You are debating between two of the core aesthetic specialties.  In general, both should be very qualified providing they do a moderate volume of injectables.  I am a plastic surgeon, but I also train other dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and other physicians on injectables.  There is definitely a range of skills out there and I know that in my own practice, my skills are only improving with time and experience.  I would recommend that you choose an experienced injector whether they are derm or plastic in the case for lip augmentation shouldn't matter much.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Name1234,I think it depends on the physician. I think when it comes to lips you want someone that has the qualifications, experience and is willing to take the time to make sure your lips are done right.  You don't want someone that just rushes you in and out.  We have an entire website dedicated to our results and what we do for lips. I would look for someone who can demonstrate their results with before and after photos.Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any more questions.I hope this was helpful,Dr. Daniel BarrettPlastic SurgeryBeverly Hills, CA

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

The choice should really be who injects a lot.  I find that most plastic surgeons are by definition are surgeons and want to spend their time operating.  Dermatologists, who are primarily injecting and doing cosmetic dermatology are injecting all day long.  The key is to find someone who is experienced and constantly injecting to have the best results.

Lip Injections: should I go to Plastic Surgeon or Dermatologist?

Answers (8)