Back in the 1990s, it wasn’t uncommon to see Hollywood celebrities who suddenly had big, full, pouty lips. Back in those days, surgeons often used silicone implants to provide the fullness in a procedure called a lip augmentation. While this is still available, these days, many surgeons have turned to lip fillers, instead. Two of the best and most revered products are Juvederm and Restylane, and for many patients, they’re a safer, more convenient solution.
Lip Augmentation vs. Lip Fillers
Lip augmentation is the second most common cosmetic procedure among women, and it is second only to breast augmentation. Some of Hollywood’s hottest celebrities have gone under the knife to acquire pouty, full lips with the help of silicone implants. Paris Hilton, Jessica Simpson, and the famed Pamela Anderson are all great examples of just how profound lip augmentation can be.
Lip fillers are slowly overtaking lip implants in popularity for several reasons. While it is possible to choose the size of a silicone implant, many patients (and surgeons) find that fillers provide even more control, allowing for more personalized and therefore natural results. What’s more, lip fillers require no surgery, making them perfect for busy women on the go who simply do not have time for recovery.
Restylane and Juvederm – The Two Most Popular Choices
When it comes to lip fillers, surgeons around the world turn to products called Juvederm and Restylane more than any others. These products have a solid reputation for quality, and patients truly enjoy the results they receive. While the two can provide much the same results, and they are both hyaluronic acid-based fillers, most plastic surgeons agree that there are a few very noticeable differences.
- Juvederm – When used in very small amounts, Juvederm is less likely to form a “bump”. That’s because this product is more readily absorbed into the surrounding tissue, which provides a smoother appearance. This is ideal when the surgeon does not want to work and mold the filler after it has been put in place. However, because of its absorption, Juvederm’s results may not remain as evident for as long; the filler tends to flatten out over time.
- Restylane – Restylane, on the other hand, is preferred when surgeons need to inject quite a bit of filler and prefer the option of working it once it has been injected into the tissue. Restylane can form “bumps” after injection, but these are simple enough for the surgeon to work out, and most claim the additional effort is well worth the longer-lasting results.
Simply put, patients who require only minimal lip filling may find that Juvederm is the better option, but those who want thick, pouty, full lips may opt for Restylane, which can provide dramatic results that last.
If you are interested in changing the shape, appearance, or fullness of your lips, then there is no doubt that Juvederm and Restylane are the best options in most cases. These are outpatient procedures with very little recovery, if any at all, which is perfect for today’s busy lifestyles. On the other hand, if you want a longer-lasting result, lip augmentation with implants may be the better choice. You can always consult with your plastic surgeon to discuss your options.