Not so long ago it wasn’t uncommon to read regular reports by the media branding celebrities as having ‘duck lips’ or a ‘trout pout.’ Today lip fillers are far more advanced, to create a naturally fuller pout without the appearance of having work done.
Whether you’re looking to create fuller lips as you age, or simply enhance your natural lip, it’s important to choose the filler that’s right for you. Read on to find out more about the various options available and the results you can achieve…
Restylane Silk
Restylane promises to help you age the way you want, and create your ideal lips. As the first FDA-apptoved product specifically designed for lip augmentation, Restylane Silk can also be used to smooth fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth in patients of 21 years old and above.
Designed specifically to provide natural-looking results, Restylane uses small and smooth hyaluronic acid particles. With a higher G prime than other options on the market, the traditional Restylane product has a higher level of stiffness, meaning it will hold and stay in place a little better. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking to restore the lip line/boarders that have become flatter and less defined.
The newer Restylane Silk is a little thinner than traditional Restylane, making it great for treating small vertical lip lines and adding plumpness. In addition, this product has low risk of a Tyndall effect – which is a blue discoloration of the skin that can occur as the product settles into the skin.
Juvederm
Juvederm comes in two forms – Juvederm Ultra and Juvederm Ultra Plus. Both options from Juvederm have a lower G prime than Restylane, meaning they spready out more into the tissue. In addition they absorb more water when injected, meaning that they can cause the lips to swell more for a more ‘plumped up’ look.
The difference between Juvederm Ultra and Ultra plus is the size of the particles – Juvederm Ultra Plus features larger particles which can make the effects of the procedure last longer. Typically Juvederm Ultra lasts 6-9 months, where as Ultra Plus can last 9-12 months.
Both options from Juvederm are effective at plumping the lips to achieve a natural finish. Juvederm is a good choice for those simply looking to add volume to the lips, rather than define the lip line while adding volume at the same time.
Prevelle Silk
Another hyaluronic acid filler option is Prevelle Silk. Prevelle is a popular option at a lower price point for those who have a limited budget. This option does not last as long as Restylane or Juvederm, so is great for clients who would like to try fillers but are a little nervous of how they may look, however it is not a great option for someone looking for long lasting results.
The results of the treatment are immediate, and Prevelle can last up to three months, although the results may start to become less noticeable as soon as a month after the procedure. With this product it is possible to achieve a natural looking lip, but the effects will only be temporary and will not last as long as other fillers on the market. Prevelle Silk is said to require less down time after treatment, and will result in less temporary swelling and bruising than other options available.
Elevess
Elevess (also known as Hydrelle) is another option for a hyaluronic acid dermal filler. It can be a little cheaper than other options on the market, but this is said to be due to fewer injections (up to 50% less) being necessary due to the concentrated formula. It is firstly used to treat lines and wrinkles in the face, but can also be used as a lip filler.
Elevess was the first dermal filler to use lidocaine, a local anesthetic, in its formulation, but today all of the above now include lidocaine. It uses the highest concentration of hyaluronic acid among all HA-based aesthetic fillers and comes with a proprietary HA cross-link for added durability.
Like any dermal filler, there can be some side effects such as swelling and redness, but Elevess has seen the most reported negative side effects, such as painful swelling and blistering.
When choosing the right filler for you it is key to have a consultation with a fully trained and registered professional, who will be able to advise you on the best option to achieve the results you desire. This discussion will take into account your facial anatomy, medical history and aesthetic goals, to ensure the filler that you choose will be right for you.
For an all found filler we favour Restylane Silk, due to it’s ability to add volume and define the lips, for long lasting and natural results.
