Lip Augmentation

There are two main types of lip augmentation:

Using a synthetic implant - the most common material used to enlarge lips is a filler. There are many types of lip enhancer dermal fillers.

The most frequently used lip fillers are hyaluronic acid fillers or gels such as Restylane. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in your body so an allergic reaction is unlikely. The amount of hyaluronic acid injected can be controlled, you can have the injections gradually over a series of appointments to achieve your desired look and, they break down naturally with results lasting up to six months.

Other synthetic implants such as GORE-TEX and AlloDerm can also add volume to your lips but there is a chance that your body will reject these implant

Using your own body tissue – such as a fat or dermis graft. This is long lasting and as it’s your own tissue you will have no allergy problems. It can however take more time as the tissue needs extracting.

Fat can be harvested from your body (usually your abdomen, hips or thighs) by liposuction. It is then processed and cleansed by being spun at a high speed in a centrifuge before being injected into your lips.

Dermis can be a bi-product of another operation where it would otherwise be discarded such as an abdominal reduction, breast reduction, facelift or a strip of skin can be removed from underneath your buttock crease or a scar. The outer skin is removed and the shaped dermis graft placed into your lips.

Lip augmentation is a non-surgical procedure that is performed under local anaesthetic. At Ramsay it is carried out by a fully qualified and highly experienced nurse or consultant.

The procedure typically takes around 30 minutes to perform and you can resume your normal daily activities immediately after treatment. If you opt for fat injection, you will have liposuction beforehand to remove the fat from another part of your body.

Fillers or fat is injected using very fine needles in small controlled doses just under the skin surface of your lips where enhancement is desired.

If you decide to pay for your treatment, Ramsay offer an all-inclusive Total Care package, where a single one-off payment at a pre-agreed price, delivering direct access to all the treatment you need for complete reassurance. You can also spread the cost of your treatment with finance options available.

A lip augmentation may be covered by your medical insurance policy. We advise you to check directly with your insurance provider and get written confirmation before commencing treatment. 

Following a lip augmentation, your lip area may be swollen, tender and red for a few days before it settles.

You will be able to continue with your everyday activities without the need for any downtime.

You must have a medical or psychological necessity to be eligible for plastic or reconstructive surgery at one of our Ramsay hospitals. Your consultant will guide you through a thorough assessment process. If needed, our multi-disciplinary team, potentially including a psychologist and / or other specialists, will review your case to confirm the medical necessity of your treatment.