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Washington, D.C. Plastic Surgeon

Maryland & DC

(888) 413-3923

Northern Virginia

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Christopher Chang MD

Lips are a central feature of the face and can signal beauty and good health. Many celebrities and models are known for their beautiful, plump lips. Not all of us were born with plump lips, and aging can make once lovely lips look thin and tired, with deflated tissue as well as lines appearing around them.

Lip enhancement is usually performed with injectable filler, and may require a more complex technique than wrinkle filling. Because the lips are extremely vascular and soft, bruising, swelling, and irregularity can be common. It is important to work with a plastic surgeon who is skilled and experienced in this type of facial cosmetic surgery, understands lip anatomy and form, and how to prevent distortion of the normal lip contour that can produce an appearance that appears artificial and unbalanced. As one of the best providers of lip augmentation in Washington DC, Dr. Chang is the clear choice in your journey toward your cosmetic goals.


Lip augmentation can be achieved with several different agents:

Collagen

Collagen injections were very popular in the past and, at that time, produced dramatic results. Later, the use of collagen injections gave way to the a more artificial and "over-injected" look that began in the 70's and 80's celebrity plastic surgery wave. Today’s advanced injectable fillers are very effective in creating full, plump lips that appear natural.

Fat

Fat injections are another option. Fat requires no foreign material, and is very safe. Unfortunately, fat can be difficult to control and may become lumpy or resorb unpredictably, so consistent results can be challenging. Furthermore, the lip may have more bleeding, bruising and swelling since the fat graft requires a larger cannula or needle for placement.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance that has extraordinary benefits, with anti-aging and hydrating properties. When it occurs naturally, it holds and replenishes moisture. As an injectable for lip enhancement, this substance performs extremely well and is easily accepted by the body. Various injectable products have this important substance.

Juvederm and Restylane

Hyaluronic acid is currently one of the most popular and effective injectable fillers for lip augmentation. Products such as Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero are each effective. These products are applied with a very thin needle or cannula and the area is then massaged so it enters the lip tissue evenly, where it acts as a filling agent and draws water molecules to plump the tissue. The plump, full lips produced with either product will typically last for about six to nine months before another treatment is needed.

How is lip augmentation performed?

Lip Augmentation Washington DC

The first step in making a decision about lip augmentation is a consultation with a plastic surgeon to evaluate the condition and size of your lips. As Dr. Chang is one of the top providers of lip augmentation in Washington DC, he is adept in gauging injection site, injection amount and several other delicate factors. It is important that the results of the augmentation look like your natural lip tissue, and at our practice we listen closely to what our patients say about what they envision. Every person is different, and some may have thin lips, while others may just want to restore a more youthful plump appearance to the lips. The procedure itself is very short, requiring only about 30 minutes to perform. The lips will appear plumper, and the lip perimeter can now appear to have a more attractive “sweep” with more definition.

Lip Injections: It Takes Skill and Artistry

Although the products used in lip augmentation are very important in the final appearance, the medical professional tasked with injecting the filler is the most important factor in how your lips will look after treatment. Lip tissue is very delicate, and wrongly injected fillers can create a strange, uneven, or unnatural appearance.

Preparing for Lip Augmentation

In general, lip augmentation is safe, effective, and has excellent satisfaction rates. You will want to have some idea of your goals and refrain from any blood thinners or alcohol prior to your appointment. Stop smoking if you can – all of these factors can prolong your swelling, healing and eventual results.

Lip Plumping

Lip Augmentation can resolve a range of aesthetic problems associated with the lips, including:

  • Thin lips
  • Aging lips
  • Small lips
  • Undefined lip perimeter

Recovery Time After Lip Augmentation

After our Washington DC lip augmentation, there is very little recovery time. You may experience some minor swelling or bruising, which lasts for only a few days. To ensure proper healing and results, avoid drinking any alcoholic beverages or exercise for 48 hours (no kissing either!). Sleep in an elevated position with an added pillow, and use ice to help reduce any bruising or swelling. Recovery is typically complete after only a few days. If you are planning to attend a reunion or other special event and are considering lip augmentation, it is advised that you have the procedure at least two weeks prior so you look your best!

Call now for a consultation with one of the best providers of lip augmentation Washington DC & Maryland have to offer, Dr. Christopher Chang.

Phone: (888) 413-3923 Hours: M-F 9:00am to 5:00pm

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Dr. Christopher Chang Congressional Plastic Surgery - Dr. Christopher Chang Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Washington DC

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