While lip fillers have become vastly popular in the volumisation of the lips, there are also other ways in which the same goal can be achieved: lip implants. However, one of the main differences between fillers and implants is that the former is temporary, while the latter is meant to be permanent although reversible.
For someone who doesn’t want to get regular injections and doesn’t feel so comfortable around syringes, having a one-time surgery under anaesthesia might not sound like a bad alternative. Only with lip implants, things might not always be as simple as they may seem. Let’s learn more about them.
What Are Lip Implants?
Made from silicone or extended polytetrafluoroethylene, lip implants are synthetic materials that are used for lip augmentation to increase their volume and overall aesthetic appearance.
Since individual needs can vary, it is possible for you to get a customised implant that has a varying length and thickness. They can be placed in either or both your upper and lower lip.
Why Do People Get Lip Implants?
People may choose to get lip implants for any of the following reasons:
- Youthful-Looking Lips – Thinning of the lips can be one of the consequences of ageing. Therefore, many people consider getting implants as a way to look more youthful.
- Voluminous Lips – Lip implants are also done to enhance the overall volume of the lip for a bigger pout.
- Permanent Results – Since filler injections don’t last, a more long-term and permanent alternative to lip augmentation can be lip implants.
Still, this surgery is not for everyone. Lip implants are not considered suitable for people who have very thin lips – which seems counterintuitive because people who have thin lips would consider getting implants in the first place.
However, as noted in StatPearls, if you don’t have enough tissue or vermilion (red part of the lips) show, it might not be possible to fit the implant, even the smallest one. Poor results are another concern due to the visibility of the implants.
As well, the implant can come out through the skin (extrusion), or you might develop an infection. In case the patient has thin lips, the surgeon may first perform a lip lift procedure.
Are Lip Implants Permanent?
Lip implants are permanent, so if all goes well, they can last you a long time. Still, if needed, you can get these implants removed so the procedure can be reversed. However, it’s important that, in either instance, you find an experienced and qualified surgeon to perform the procedure.
How Much Are Lip Implants In The UK?
In the UK, a single lip implant surgery might cost you somewhere around £2,000. The price may vary depending on the type of graft you’re getting, the experience of your surgeon and the qualification of your practitioner. In contrast, a session of lip fillers might cost you somewhere between £200 to £300, and they might last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
What’s The Procedure For Getting Lip Implants?
For inserting the lip implants, you’ll first be given anaesthesia. While usually local anaesthesia is used – where you’ll be awake during the surgery – general anaesthesia can also be performed.
Following that, the surgeon will begin by making small incisions around the corners of your mouth. A pocket will then be created inside your lip for the placement of the implant. Once it’s in place, the incisions will be stitched back up. The entire procedure for lip implant placement may take somewhere between 40 to 45 minutes.
Do Lip Implants Hurt?
Since lip implant surgery takes place under anaesthesia, you shouldn’t experience any pain during the procedure. You may experience pain after the surgery, however, your surgeon will likely prescribe pain medications for it.
What To Expect After Lip Implants Procedure?
Lip implants may have a downtime of around a few days. You can experience side effects, such as swelling, bruising, and soreness. Your surgeon should explain the recovery timeline, but if any time if you feel something’s not right, you should make sure to get in touch with the medical team.
As for the aftercare, instructions may vary depending on the practitioner, but they may include things such as avoiding opening the mouth too wide, not engaging in intense activities, or sleeping with the head elevated. Make sure that you follow the advice of your own doctor.
Are Lip Implants Safe?
Lip implant surgery is considered to be safe, but it’s important that you find a qualified, experienced and board-certified practitioner. Even so, it’s important to know that the surgery is not without risks, such as:
- Infection
- Capsular contracture
- Asymmetry
- Extrusion of the implant
- Implant shifting
- Allergic reaction
These are not all the complications that you might experience. Make sure to discuss them with your surgeon in the face-to-face consultation.
Are Lip Implants Better Than Fillers?
Lip implants might be a more suitable option for patients looking for more permanent, long-lasting results. Fillers can require regular maintenance sessions as they can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years.
Still, some people consider getting a “try on” lip augmentation with fillers first to get an idea of what implants may look like if they decide to get that surgery down the road.
However, keep in mind that lip fillers are unsuitable for those with thin lips as they can give poor results and may lead to certain complications after the surgery. Therefore, the question of whether you should get implants or fillers has several considerations, including your own aesthetic goals and what can be achieved with your natural anatomy.
Conclusion
Lip implants can help you achieve fuller lips, smooth out lines on your lips and may even help with excessive teeth show. The best part about this treatment is that the implants are intended to give permanent results, so they can last you a lifetime.
However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for this surgery, which can include those who have thin lips. The procedure is also not without risks, which is why you should make sure to discuss everything with your practitioner to make a more informed decision.
Reviewed and approved by Prof. Dr. Fuat Yuksel
FAQ
Can you feel a lip implant?
You can feel the implants in your lips after the surgery, but they’re something that you then get used to over time. Others, however, such as your partner shouldn’t be able to feel the implant or even know that it’s in there.
Do lip implants look natural?
Lip implants can give you natural-looking results and they are also said to feel natural, but it’s very important that you find a qualified practitioner to get the best possible results from this procedure.
Are lip implants reversible?
A lip implant procedure is reversible. If you’re not satisfied with the results of your procedure, you can have another surgery to have the lip implants removed.
Are lip implants worth it?
Lip implants can give you long-term fuller, more youthful-looking lips. You don’t have to get regular injections to keep your lips looking plump. But keep in mind that this surgery is not without risks.
