Westlake, Ohio 44145
Most lip filler treatments involve the use of a hyaluronic acid (HA) filler.
HA fillers are injected directly into the lips to enhance definition and/or fullness. HA is beneficial because it not only plumps the lips but also attracts and binds water from within to deliver a healthy, natural-looking pout. To really understand this process, it’s important to first know what HA is. This sugar derivative is produced naturally in the body to hydrate eyes, joints, and skin. The power of this compound is that it can bind to and retain water molecules equal to 1,000 times its own weight. With such moisturizing abilities, HA makes for a perfect filler: it is biologically inspired, protects tissues, and gives long-lasting results.
Getting injections into the delicate tissue around the mouth can be intimidating. D. Diwan recommends applying a numbing cream to desensitize the skin before commencing with your treatment. There are other simple techniques used in the office to reduce discomfort as well. Many of the injectable products that are used for lip enhancement contain a little bit of lidocaine, a mild anesthetic which also reduces discomfort. Generally, lip filler injections are very well-tolerated. This is true even when treating thin or deflated lips or fine lines that border the lips. If you’re curious about getting lip injections, please don’t hesitate to ask us! We’re here to make sure you look your best while also feeling comfortable throughout your procedure.
Lip augmentation is a common nonsurgical procedure that is performed nearly every day in our office. However, just because lip injections are popular doesn’t mean it is right for you. How do you know? You can begin to explore the value of lip injections if you aren’t happy with the shape of your mouth. Are your lips naturally thin? Do they disappear when you speak or smile? Have your lips gone from luscious to lackluster as you’ve aged? Do you notice the vertical lines around your mouth more than the volume of your lips themselves? It doesn’t take long to spot the things about your lips that you might not love. Once you do, your next step is to talk to Dr. Diwan, an experienced injector, to find out if nonsurgical lip augmentation is right for you.
Our goal is to enhance your look not just your lips. Dr. Diwan has an esthetic eye for keeping the fullness of your lips in proportion to the rest of your face. Unfortunately, people often have overdone lips from less experienced injectors. When you consult with Dr. Diwan you can expect to have a discussion of what will enhance your lips and your face, without looking unnatural. Lip augmentation may take place over a couple of appointments to make sure the enhancement is gradual and not overdone.
After lip injections, for 24 hours, you may want to observe the following:
Because the fillers used will not provide permanent results, we recommend returning for a little more filler to maintain lip enhancement every 6 months or when you notice that your lips are losing their fullness (*).
The amount of filler needed depends on your natural lip structure, desired outcome, and facial proportions. Many patients begin with one syringe or less for subtle enhancement. Dr. Diwan takes a conservative approach, often building volume gradually over multiple appointments to ensure natural, balanced results.
Hyaluronic acid fillers such as Restylane®, Restylane Silk®, and Juvéderm Ultra® are commonly used for lip enhancement because they provide smooth, flexible volume that moves naturally with facial expressions. During your consultation, Dr. Diwan selects the filler most appropriate for your lip shape, skin thickness, and aesthetic goals.
Yes. Lip fillers can be strategically placed to correct minor asymmetries in the upper or lower lip. Subtle adjustments in volume and contour can help create better balance while preserving your natural features.
Yes. In addition to enhancing fullness, hyaluronic acid fillers can soften vertical lip lines around the mouth. In some cases, a small amount of neuromodulator may also be used to relax fine muscle movement that contributes to etched lines.
Most patients choose maintenance treatments every 6 to 12 months, depending on how quickly their body metabolizes the filler. Over time, some patients find they require less product to maintain their desired look.
When performed by a trained, experienced injector, lip fillers are considered very safe. Hyaluronic acid fillers are FDA-approved and naturally metabolized by the body over time. Dr. Diwan’s extensive training in dermatologic surgery and facial anatomy ensures injections are performed with precision and safety in mind.
Yes. One advantage of hyaluronic acid fillers is that they can be dissolved using an enzyme called hyaluronidase. This provides assurance for patients who prefer a reversible treatment option.
No. While many younger patients seek subtle volume enhancement, lip augmentation is also popular among patients experiencing age-related thinning. Restoring lost volume can be an important part of overall facial rejuvenation.
To minimize bruising, we advise avoiding blood-thinning medications and supplements, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil, for several days prior to treatment (unless medically necessary). Alcohol should also be avoided for 24 hours beforehand. Dr. Diwan will review your medical history and provide personalized pre-treatment instructions during your consultation.
Lip enhancement requires a deep understanding of facial anatomy, proportion, and balance. Dr. Renuka Diwan, MD, FAAD, is a Board-Certified Dermatologist and fellowship-trained dermatologic surgeon with over two decades of experience performing cosmetic injections. She personally performs every lip augmentation treatment in her Westlake office and takes a conservative, artistic approach to ensure results look natural — not overfilled or artificial. Her focus is always on enhancing the entire face, not just the lips, so that volume, shape, and definition remain harmonious.
To see Lip Filler Before and After Pictures please click here
