02 Jan Enhance those smackers the right way
You probably have heard about the “Kylie Jenner Challenge,”or maybe you have even seen some of the videos all over social media. Young women have been using various suction techniques?e.g., sucking on a shot glass or using a device called CandyLipz?to enlarge their pout. Doctors caution that this dangerous trend could have unpleasant consequences such as severe bruising, pain, and possible disfigurement. There are much safer alternatives that Dr. Edds can recommend.
First, try makeup. Use a nude lip liner or lipstick to go slightly beyond the shape of your lip to make them look bigger. A lip plumper with mildly irritating ingredients stimulates blood flow in the lips to add fullness; add a glossy finish to enhance the illusion of plumpness. No trauma; no downtime.
Next, the most popular treatments to consider are fillers because they can be done on your lunch break and require minimal recovery with limited swelling or bruising. The most commonly used Food and Drug Administration (FDA) cleared hyaluronic acid fillers are Restylane-L, Perlane-L, Juvederm XC, and Belotero Balance. In 2014, Restylane Silk was FDA approved for lip augmentation and dermal implantation for the correction of wrinkles around the lips. It contains the pain reliever lidocaine to make injections more comfortable. These temporary hyaluronic acid fillers?lasting six to nine months?work with the body’s own hyaluronic acid and create volume.
There are many kinds of synthetic implants, e.g., SoftForm, UltraSoft, Gore-tex, and Advanta. These are made from expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, which is a non-reactive, non-toxic polymer. Designs differ; however, all are surgically inserted from the corners of the inside of the lips. A few tiny stitches are made, with mild swelling for three to five days. Tissue grows in and around the implant, which creates stability; the results are permanent.
Alloderm is processed human tissue and is surgically placed like Gore-tex. The results typically diminish after six to 12 months. Although solid or semi-solid materials are more invasive than injectables, they offer a longer-lasting enhancement of the lips.
The lip lift is a surgical option that shortens the distance between the bottom of the nose and the top of the upper lip to give the appearance of greater fullness. An incision is made in the upper lip that follows the lip line (Cupid’s bow). Some of the skin is removed and the lip is lifted to create a fuller look with more pout.
Skip the Kylie Jenner Challenge and instead make an appointment with Dr. Edds to discuss which option is right to enhance your lips.