What is hyaluronic acid and how does it work on the lips?

Enlarging the lips using hyaluronic acid is recommended for individuals who are not satisfied with the appearance of their lips. If you have thin, asymmetrical lips or notice a loss of volume over the years, it is also worth considering this procedure. It is important to remember that lip size decreases with age, and through the procedure, you can restore their former shape and size. Hyaluronic acid not only increases volume but also improves symmetry and shape of the lips. Additionally, it helps lift the corners and moisturize the skin around the lips. Enlarging them with hyaluronic acid is a quick and safe way to achieve aesthetic results. This is a popular method in aesthetic medicine, offering a natural outcome and emphasizing the lip contour. It is ideal for individuals looking to have fuller and more defined lips.

Enlarging lips with hyaluronic acid begins with a consultation with a doctor, during which the patient's expectations are discussed and any potential contraindications are verified. Then, a numbing cream is applied to the lip area, providing comfort during the procedure and making it painless.

Hyaluronic acid is precisely injected into areas requiring correction using thin needles or microcannulas. This technique minimizes the risk of damage to blood vessels and reduces the possibility of swelling and bruising.

The entire procedure usually takes just a few minutes, and the results are almost immediately visible. After completion, the lips may be slightly swollen, but swelling typically subsides within two days.

In the application of hyaluronic acid, safety is crucial when it comes to lip augmentation. The use of microcannulas instead of traditional needles significantly reduces the risk of damaging blood vessels, thereby minimizing swelling and bruising. A microcannula is a thin tube that allows precise delivery of the product under the skin, increasing patient comfort and shortening the recovery time for daily activities.

The safety of the procedure also depends on the experience of the person performing it. A qualified specialist possesses the knowledge and skills necessary to assess the individual requirements of the patient and choose the appropriate injection technique.

This approach helps achieve a natural look without unwanted side effects. Throughout the process, it is crucial to adhere to aseptic principles and use high-quality products containing hyaluronic acid. This substance, a natural component of the body, further confirms its safety in cosmetics. All these elements together ensure the patient's sense of security and satisfactory aesthetic results.

Consultation with a doctor before lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid is a crucial step. During the meeting, the specialist assesses the patient's overall health and identifies any potential contraindications to the procedure, it is also essential to discuss the expected results, which will help prevent any disappointments. During the consultation, it is worth discussing your future appearance, especially the size and shape of the lips. During lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid, a numbing cream is applied to the lips. Its advantages include:

• minimizing discomfort during the procedure,
• easy application,
• eliminating pain during the application of hyaluronic acid,
• greater comfort for the patient,
• allowing the doctor to work without disruptions.

Professionalism of the medical practitioner and proper use of numbing agents are essential for the safety and effectiveness of lip augmentation procedures using hyaluronic acid.

The results of lip modeling treatment using hyaluronic acid can be noticed almost immediately after its completion. In the first few days, the lips may appear swollen, making them seem larger. Small bruises may also appear, which is a natural phenomenon. After the procedure, the lips become fuller and more elastic, and their hydration significantly improves. The effect of the acid depends on its form:

• non-crosslinked mainly focuses on hydration,
• crosslinked allows for more precise shaping of the lips.

The final effects are visible after about 2 weeks, when the substance fully absorbs water and settles in the tissues. This procedure lifts the corners of the lips and smooths fine lines around them, making the face appear younger and fresher. The effects last from 6 to 18 months, making it an attractive option for those seeking long-lasting results without the need for invasive surgical procedures. The final effect of lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid depends on the individual characteristics of the patient.

The natural look achieved through this method makes the lips look healthy and attractive. Furthermore, the procedure improves the condition of the skin by intensely moisturizing it and increasing its elasticity. Lip filling with hyaluronic acid is an excellent choice for those wanting subtle changes that enhance the natural beauty of their lips.

The cost of lip augmentation using hyaluronic acid depends on the amount of acid applied. Typically, 0.5 ml, 0.7 ml, and 1 ml are used, occasionally 1.5 ml. Sometimes more than one session is required, especially for thin and challenging lips. Prices may also vary depending on the clinic's location and the patient's individual needs. The final price is also influenced by the doctor's experience and the specifics of the procedure. Before making a final decision, it is advisable to consult with a specialist to obtain an accurate quote and discuss the entire procedure. Investing in such an aesthetic procedure is often considered worthwhile due to its long-lasting effects and improvement of the lips' appearance.

After the hyaluronic acid lip augmentation procedure, it is worth following certain guidelines to achieve the best results and reduce the risk of complications.

• Avoid sauna, swimming pool, solarium, and gym for the first three days as these places can hinder skin healing.
• Additionally, refrain from alcohol and smoking, which can slow down regeneration.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to properly moisturize the body.
• It is also important to avoid extreme temperatures of foods - both hot and cold - that can irritate the delicate skin around the lips.
• Furthermore, do not massage or touch the treated area to maintain the lip shaping effect.

Post-procedure care involves maintaining hygiene and avoiding excessive stretching of the skin around the lips during daily activities. By following these simple recommendations, you can enjoy full and natural-looking lips without any issues.

Lip augmentation procedures using hyaluronic acid may be associated with certain contraindications and side effects that are worth considering before deciding to undergo them. It is not advisable to enlarge the lips using this method in individuals who have:

• skin inflammations, such as herpes or acne,
• a tendency to develop hypertrophic scars,
• autoimmune diseases,
• are pregnant or breastfeeding,
• a tendency to form keloids,
• blood clotting disorders.

Although hyaluronic acid naturally occurs in the human body, it can rarely cause allergies and hypersensitivity. In such situations, undergoing a procedure with its use is not recommended.

After lip augmentation, swelling, redness, bruising, and pain at the injection site may occur. These symptoms are usually short-lived and subside after a few days. Before deciding on the procedure, a detailed consultation with a specialist doctor is crucial. This allows to assess the risk of side effects and tailor the procedure to the patient's individual needs. As a result, the procedure will proceed without major complications.

1. Stefanaki C., Katsambas A.: Skin fillers. What's new? "Aesthetic Dermatology", 2022; pp. 4-6.
2. Monheit G. D., Coleman K. M.: Hyaluronic acid fillers. Dermatol. Ther. 2006; 19, pp. 141-150.
3. Essentials of aesthetic medicine. Handbook for cosmetology students, eds. A. Przylipiak, Kresowa Publishing Agency, Białystok 2014.