Lip Enhancement in Cleveland, OH
Beautiful lips are about more than just size—they are about balance, border definition, and a smooth texture. Whether you’ve always had thin lips and want more volume, or you’ve noticed your lips thinning and developing fine lines with age, Lip Enhancement can restore a youthful, healthy pout.
Dr. Rodney Green specializes in “conservative enhancement.” Using a surgeon’s eye for symmetry, he avoids the “overfilled” look, instead focusing on the Cupid’s bow, the philtral columns (the two lines between your nose and lip), and the overall harmony of your smile.
Options for Lip Enhancement
1. Dermal Fillers (Juvéderm® & Restylane®)
The most popular method for instant results. These Hyaluronic Acid (HA) gels are used to:
- Add Volume: Plump thin lips for a fuller appearance.
- Define the Border: Sharpen the “vermillion border” to prevent lipstick from “bleeding.”
- Smooth Lines: Erase vertical “smoker’s lines” or “barcode lines” around the mouth.
- Correct Asymmetry: Balance a lopsided smile or a dominant lower lip.
2. The "Botox Lip Flip"
A subtle, non-filler alternative. Dr. Green places a few units of Botox® into the muscle above the upper lip. This relaxes the muscle, allowing the lip to “flip” slightly upward and outward, making it appear fuller without adding actual volume.
3. Fat Grafting
For a permanent, natural alternative to fillers, Dr. Green can harvest a small amount of fat from your own body (usually the abdomen or thighs) and carefully inject it into the lips. This is often performed in conjunction with other facial surgeries.
4. Lip Lift
Another popular procedure is a procedure to shorten the upper lip with tissue just below the nose being removed to shorten the lip which tends to lengthen with aging.
The Procedure: Comfort and Precision
Lip treatments are quick, in-office procedures typically taking 20 to 30 minutes.
- Numbing: Because the lips are sensitive, Dr. Green uses a high-strength topical numbing cream or a “dental block” (local anesthetic) to ensure you are completely comfortable and feel virtually nothing.
- The Injection: Using a micro-needle or a blunt-tipped cannula, the product is placed in tiny increments.
- Sculpting: Dr. Green meticulously massages the product to ensure there are no lumps and the contour is perfectly smooth.
Recovery: What to Expect
- The First 24–48 Hours: Swelling is normal and expected in the lips. It often looks slightly more voluminous on day two before settling down.
- Icing: We recommend applying ice packs intermittently for the first day to minimize swelling and any minor bruising.
- Results: While you see the shape immediately, the “final look” is achieved after about 1 to 2 weeks once all swelling has resolved.
- Longevity: Lip fillers typically last between 6 and 12 months, as the constant movement of the mouth causes the body to break down the filler faster than in the cheeks.
Important Note on Your Recovery & Results
Every set of lips is unique, and final aesthetic outcomes will vary based on your natural lip shape and tissue elasticity. It is important to have realistic expectations; sometimes achieving your “dream lip” may require two separate sessions spaced a few months apart to build volume safely and naturally.
While lip enhancement is very safe, contact our office at 440-449-8880 immediately if you notice severe pain, significant bruising that spreads, or whitening of the skin near the lip. Early communication is essential for your safety and a beautiful result.
Lip Enhancement FAQs
Will I have "duck lips"?
No. Dr. Green’s “Natural Excellence” philosophy ensures that the projection of your lips remains in balance with your nose and chin. He focuses on the ratio where the lower lip is slightly fuller than the upper lip, which is the hallmark of a natural appearance.
Can I get my lips done if I have a history of cold sores?
Yes, but please inform us! Injections can sometimes trigger an outbreak. Dr. Green can prescribe a preventative antiviral medication to take before your appointment.
What if I don't like the result?
Hyaluronic acid fillers are completely reversible. If you feel the lips are too full, an enzyme called hyaluronidase can be used to dissolve the filler safely.
When can I wear lipstick again?
We recommend waiting at least 24 hours to allow the injection points to close completely and to avoid irritation.
Consultation Checklist: Questions to Ask Dr. Green
- Based on my face shape, should we focus on volume or just defining the border?
- Is a “Lip Flip” enough for me, or do I need a filler like Volbella?
- How many syringes do you recommend for a subtle first-time enhancement?
- What are the specific steps I should take to minimize bruising before my visit?
Achieve Your Dream Body With Our Experienced Surgical Team
We understand that your body is unique, and your goals for surgery are too. That’s why we offer a variety of surgical procedures to help you achieve your desired results.
Dr. Rodney Green is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and support. We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and expectations.
Call us at 440-449-8880 or email us at drgreen@dr-rodgreen.com to take the first step toward the body of your dreams. to take the first step toward the body of your dreams.