Considering Lip Augmentation? Here’s How to Avoid the Dreaded Duck Lips

In 2024, 1.4 million people in the United States had a lip enhancement procedure. If you’re thinking about it, you’re definitely not alone; it’s a popular choice, and for good reason. 

At Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi in Flowood, Mississippi, Dr. Michael Nichols performs numerous cosmetic procedures, including lip augmentation, to help his patients look and feel their best. When you feel great about your appearance, you’re happier and more confident. 

However, there are a few things to consider before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. 

Understanding the types of lip augmentation

When you decide to have a cosmetic procedure, the options can be overwhelming. Even with something seemingly small, such as lip augmentation, you have a few choices. 

Dermal filler injections

Injections are a popular way to change your lips. Dermal filler injections usually last a year or more, giving you a chance to see how a more permanent augmentation looks. 

With injections, we use a local anesthetic to ensure your comfort. You may experience mild bruising or swelling, which resolves within a few days. You can see a difference right away, but the full effect is apparent in a couple of weeks. 

Fat grafting 

When you opt for fat grafting, Dr. Nichols removes a small amount of your tissue. It’s processed and cleaned, and then he injects it into your lips to give you the appearance you want. 

Fat grafting is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day, but you’re under anesthesia during the treatment session. You can expect mild to moderate bruising for about a week, and you may also experience some temporary numbness in the area. 

Once the swelling dissipates, you’ll have the fuller lips you want. Plus, the results last for years. 

Lip implant

A lip implant is similar to fat grafting, except Dr. Nichols places an implant made of a solid, permanent material to change the shape of your lips. These implants come in a variety of shapes and sizes.

The most important consideration

By far, the most important decision you make before getting lip augmentation is choosing your provider. A board-certified, skilled, and experienced provider is by far the best option, for your safety and to get the results you want — and to avoid the dreaded duck lips! 

Dr. Nichols can walk you through your options, discuss which is likely to work best for your situation, and advise you throughout the process. He’s an expert who’s dedicated to providing the best possible care to all of his patients. 

If you’re thinking about lip augmentation, schedule a consultation with Dr. Nichols at Oral & Facial Surgery of Mississippi today.