Lip augmentation has easily become one of the most requested minimally invasive cosmetic treatments across Canada. The term refers to a wide range of procedures that can change the shape, size and appearance of lips.
Initially introduced as a treatment option for the reconstruction of facial deformities in patients with tuberculosis, but despite their somewhat macabre origin, around the 1900s healthcare professionals began performing lip augmentation as elective surgery. Literature tells us that the very first known injectable agent was paraffin; however, its use was quickly deserted as it carried a number of undesired side effects.
A similar destiny was awaiting silicone years later after the FDA deemed it to have too many complications. However, a key moment in the history of lip enhancement was marked by the introduction of bovine collagen, paving the way for a series of filler agents bound to revolutionize the face of aesthetic treatments. It wasn’t until the 90s when human collagen began rising in popularity and demand.
So how did we get to where we are today? The products and options widely available nowadays leverage a wide range of filler ingredients which can include collagen, hyaluronic acid and more. Over 21 filers have been approved by the FDA for a wide range of indications, each with their specific pros and cons. For instance, some fillers have been designed to go beyond simply enhancing the look of lips to boost collagen production.
Consumers are more informed than ever before. They know what they want, what the implications are and they are not afraid to ask. On the other hand, the seek for a more youthful appearance has awaken interest in lip augmentation procedures among older or aging population as well. They all have one thing in common: the expectations from these fillers.
At its base, the ideal filler will have excellent non-allergic and non- carcinogens properties. Beyond this, it should be stable, reasonably priced, flexible, reversible, and predictable and have long-lasting effects that can be easily reproduced. When it comes to administration, consumers want the procedure to last as little as possible so that it does not interfere with their life too much or come with high risks. They are looking for minimal preparation, ideally no downtime and a painless experience. Important to also note is that fillers can be either permanent meaning they cannot be removed, and the more often used ones which are semi permanent or, as the name suggests, temporary.
All of these might sound like a catch 22 kind of situation. But thanks to advancements in science and an unwavering commitment coming from scientists and providers altogether, they are steadily becoming the standard across all lip augmentation products.
In 2020, lip augmentation procedures are projected to evolve even more and to consumers’ delight, they are becoming more and more affordable. In Canada for example, lip fillers can cost anywhere between $400 to $2,000 depending on the experience of the injector and the amount of volume desired as well as the quality of the product.
According to a survey of over 2,500 physicians performing aesthetic procedures, Botox and various injectable fillers such as Restylane and Juvéderm are at the very top of the list when it comes to the most popular non-invasive cosmetic treatments in Canada. The survey also pointed that while women account for a large percentage of the market, there is a definite trend pointing out to an increasingly positive trend towards men accessing non-surgical anti-aging treatments.
Fillers and injectables have been dealing with a reputation of looking fake, however this also circles back to the experience of the injector and the quality of the product – much like their cost. Normally, the cost of Botox is around $17-20 per unit if performed by a dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon, and typically for the lip area requires around 10-20 units, again depending on the needs and desired results.
As with everything else, it is important for anyone considering a lip augmentation procedure to do their homework thoroughly. While the harshest side effects are mild and temporary, undergoing such procedures needs to be done by a trained specialist in a sterile environment. To avoid a botched job, there is a good trick which has been revealed by Canadian professionals – look at the staff in the clinic, they are the best test of the doctor’s work, because they have most probably received the treatment. Besides this, check accreditations, ratings and customer reviews before deciding – it is not worth saving a couple of pennies and getting the procedure done at a dodgy spa by someone who has probably done an internet course on fillers.