1.5\ Lip Augmentation

1.5.1\ Discussion

Lip augmentation is performed to achieve the appearance of fuller lips. A wide variety of materials have been used for lip augmentation, including fluid silicone, autologous fat grafts, tissue matrix, polytetrafluoroethylene (Fig. 1.37), and fillers

(Fig. 1.38). The implants can be inserted into the upper and/or lower lips via incisions made medial to the oral commissures and threading the implants deep to the submucosal plane. Overcorrection is perhaps the main complication of lip augmentation and is clinically apparent. Conversely, lip atrophy can result, particularly with fat grafts. Other complications, such as implant or filler migration, infection, and extrusion, can also occur.

Fig. 1.37  Lip augmentation with polytetrafluoroethylene implants. Axial CT image of the upper lip shows the highattenuation curvilinear implant within the upper lip (arrows)

Fig. 1.38  Lip augmentation with calcium hydroxyapatite. Axial CT image shows the hyperattenuating filler within the upper lip