Lip Injection Technique: Methodology, Trends, and Care

Introduction

Lip augmentation through filler injections has seen a surge in popularity over the past few years as a cosmetic enhancement method. This procedure aims to augment lip shape and fullness utilizing dermal fillers. This article will explore various techniques employed by medical practitioners in administering lip filler injections.

Exploring Ideal Lip Injection Technique: Features, Preferences, and Trends

The concept of ideal lip aesthetics involves specific attributes such as a defined cupid’s bow, clear vermillion border, lifted mouth corners, central fullness tapering outwards, symmetry, and appropriate upper-to-lower lip proportions.
Traditional standards, like the golden ratio, influence lip aesthetics, though preferences can differ across cultures and periods.
Presently, fuller lips are favored, especially among white women.
A 2008 survey revealed that 70% of respondents preferred a lip ratio of 0.85:1, 20% preferred 1:1, and 6% preferred 0.65:1.
A subsequent 2019 survey aimed to gauge the consistency of these preferences over time.

Definition of the Step-by-Step Φ Lip Injection Technique

This Lip injection technique involves two main components: gradual injection sessions using 1–1.5 ml of hyaluronic acid (HA) each time.
Sessions are spaced 15–30 days apart, with a third session if necessary.
The technique applies the Phi ratio to determine injection points.

Patient Preparation for Lip Injection Technique:

Obtain signed informed consent and discuss the desired lip ratio using practical examples.
Capture photographs/videos for reference.
Position the patient comfortably in a supine or semi-sitting position.
Apply an anesthetic lidocaine/tetracaine cream mixture.
Disinfect the area using chlorhexidine solution.

Marking the Lips for Lip Injection Technique:

Use a specific phi caliper that can be adjusted to fit the individual’s lips.
Mark injection points in a specific order: starting from the outer corner of the upper right lip to the right philtrum ridge, then marking three injection points.
Adjust for additional volume needed, marking additional points as necessary based on lip length.
Repeat the marking process for the upper left lip.
For the lower lip, mark injection points along a line from the philtrum columns to the lower lip, typically totaling 12 or 16 needle entry points (6 or 8 on each lip).

The Lip Injection Technique

The preferred dermal filler for injection technique is hyaluronic acid (HA) due to its recognized safety and efficacy, with specific characteristics including a cross-linking of 3/6 and a concentration of 25 mg/g.
For volume restoration, injections are targeted into the vermillion through the vermillion border. A 30-gauge needle is inserted at marked points along the vermillion border at an oblique angle of 30 degrees, ensuring a depth of no more than 2.5 mm to avoid lip vessels. Needle depth can be maintained by bending the needle at 2.5 mm. Injections are administered slowly, with small boluses of 0.05–0.1 ml of HA injected at each needle point, totaling 1–1.5 ml across both lips per session. Injection follows a retrograde linear threading technique.
When aiming to restore lip shape, injections target the vermillion border, avoiding the white roll to prevent potential blunting of the lip margin. A 30-gauge needle is used at marked points of the vermillion border, inserted parallel to the surface. A conservative amount of 0.02–0.4 ml of HA is recommended, injected slowly in a retrograde linear threading manner.
Assessment for lip asymmetry based on individual anatomy is essential. Additional injections of 0.05 to 0.1 ml can be administered in targeted areas if necessary.

Post-treatment Instructions “ after Lip Injection Technique ”

Gently massage the treated area.
Use saline solution (0.9%) to cleanse the skin.
Apply ice packs briefly to alleviate pain and minimize swelling and bruising.
Patients were instructed to refrain from intense physical activity, exposure to high temperatures, and consumption of hot beverages for the following 24 hours.
Subsequent sessions are scheduled 15 days after the initial treatment, with an optional third session scheduled 30 days after the first.