by Kristel D. Polder, MD, from the Fall 2009 issue
The two areas we focus on when looking at the face are the eyes and the lips. The lips dominate the lower half of the face, and their appearance cannot be overestimated. As we age, several factors contribute to loss of volume and shape of the lips. Lower jawbone loss leads to decreased support of the underlying tissue, causing it to sag and form jowls. The ends of the upper lip hang down. The borders of the upper and lower lip become less defined – or worse – can develop fine lines from years of sun exposure and also smoking. As we age, the skin’s collagen and elastin break down, leading to thin and loose skin, like a balloon that has been deflated. Lipstick will bleed into the lines, obscuring the border between the lips and the skin surrounding the lips. All of these factors lead to the appearance of aged, wrinkled lips.
The lips are one of the most important areas for restoration in cosmetic dermatology, and one of the least amenable to surgical intervention. However, with the advent of dermal fillers (substances injected into the skin to plump the overlying wrinkles) lips can be addressed with excellent aesthetic outcomes. When lips are full and well-defined, they project the appearance of youth and health.
Enhancement of the lips should be subtle. Lips are about volume, but more importantly, shape. The junction of the lip and the surrounding skin should be defined, with volume being added to the center part of the lip to suit the patient’s individual needs and desires. The lower lip is fuller than the upper lip by a ratio of approximately 1.2:1.0. There are ethnic variations to lip volume, as well as cultural. Many considerations should be taken into account when deciding on the correct amount of lip volume. Ultimately, the key to aesthetically-pleasing lips is the harmony between the lips and the rest of the face. “Angelina Jolie lips” on a petite woman would not appear in balance with the rest of her face and stature. The needs of each individual patient can be addressed in consultation with one of our cosmetic dermatologists.
At SBA, we work with each patient to create lips to suit their individual needs and specifications. We use the hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Juvéderm Ultra and Restylane, in the lip area. Other fillers can be used in the parentheses lines around the mouth and the jowls on either side of the lips; however, only the hyaluronic acid fillers can be utilized in the actual lip. Because we place the utmost importance on patient comfort, we use a topical numbing cream, liquid anesthetic mixed with the filler, and if desired a dental block to achieve adequate anesthesia for the patient. The patient is handed a mirror during the procedure, and an open discussion is held as to the desired amount of definition, volume and support. This interactive approach between doctor and patient gives you control over the final appearance of your lips.
As lips are the dominant focal point of the lower face, what do yours say? Do they project the look of health and beauty that you want? Now, you know the secret to youthful lips – aesthetic rejuvenation with fillers. Just don’t kiss and tell.
Call our office today to set up your consultation at 713.850.0240 and press 2.
References:
Klein AW. In Search of the Perfect Lip: 2005. Dermatol. Surg. 2005;31:1599-1603.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |