Treatment Two of seven
Lip Volume
For changes in lip volume, shape and definition.
How lips change
Lips change with age, and most of what people notice is not simply a loss of volume. The shape changes, and so does the support underneath.
The visible pink part of the lip — the vermilion — gradually thins and rolls slightly inward, so less of it shows. At the same time the skin between the nose and the top of the lip lengthens, which makes the upper lip look longer and flatter, and means less of the front teeth show when the face is relaxed.
The outline softens as well. The fine ridge that traces the edge of the lip loses its crispness, the two small columns running down from the nose flatten out, and the peaks of the Cupid's bow become less distinct. Fine vertical lines appear in the skin above the lip from years of ordinary muscle movement, and sun exposure and smoking speed that up.
Underneath, the foundation shifts. The skin loses collagen and elastin, the small fat pads around the mouth reduce, and the bone of the upper and lower jaw slowly recedes — which takes away some of the support the lips sit on. The corners of the mouth rotate downward, which is why a resting face can look heavier or more serious than the person actually feels.
Not all of it is about age. Naturally fine lips, one side sitting differently to the other, a soft or indistinct border, and lines that lipstick bleeds into are all common reasons to ask for an opinion.
At a consultation Mia assesses lip proportion, symmetry, how defined the border is and how much tooth shows, then explains the suitable options, their risks and their limits.
Questions about lip volume
What causes lips to lose volume and definition?
Two things happen at once. The skin loses collagen and elastin and the small fat pads around the mouth reduce, so the lips themselves become less full. At the same time the upper lip lengthens, the pink part rolls inward so less of it shows, the outline and the small columns beneath the nose soften, and the jaw bone underneath slowly recedes, taking away some of the support the lips rest on.
Which lip concerns can be discussed at a consultation?
Common concerns include reduced volume, an upper lip that has lengthened or flattened, loss of definition at the lip border, asymmetry, downturned corners and vertical lines above the lip. Naturally fine lips, and lips that have never felt proportionate to the rest of the face, are equally common reasons to seek an assessment.
What happens at a lip consultation?
Mia will assess lip proportion, symmetry, border definition, tooth show and the balance of the lips with the surrounding features, and discuss what is and is not achievable. Suitable options, their risks and their limitations are explained before any decision is made.
What are the treatment costs?
Fees are confirmed at your consultation, as they depend on your individual treatment plan. Due to TGA restrictions, we are unable to publish prices for these services online.
How long do results last?
Duration of results varies between individuals and depends on the option chosen. Mia will explain the expected timeframes at your consultation.
Do the treatments hurt?
Comfort varies between individuals, and every measure is taken to keep you as comfortable as possible throughout your treatment. Mia will explain what to expect, along with the risks and possible side effects, before you consent.
Is there any downtime?
Swelling, tenderness and bruising around the mouth are common in the first few days, and lips swell more readily than other areas of the face. Recovery varies between individuals and depends on the option chosen, and Mia will explain the full range of risks before you consent.
What if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
Treatments in this category are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Please let Mia know if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding so your suitability can be assessed.
Fees
Fees are confirmed at your consultation, as they depend on your individual treatment plan. Due to TGA restrictions, we are unable to publish prices for these services online.
Pre and Post Care
Full pre and post care instructions for this treatment are on the care page, and provided in writing at your appointment.
Every treatment starts with a conversation.
Not ready to book? Take a free fifteen-minute call with Mia to talk through your concerns and the options worth considering.