Natural results start with honoring your existing lip anatomy. Our injectors assess proportions between the upper and lower lips, philtral columns, and surrounding facial features to guide precise placement. By layering small amounts of filler and continually assessing symmetry, we avoid over-projection and create a soft taper at the lip corners. Product selection also matters. Hyaluronic acid fillers vary in thickness and flexibility; choosing the right viscosity ensures the filler integrates smoothly and moves naturally with expression. For patients desiring longer-term change, carefully prepared fat offers a natural tissue match. Open communication about your goals and realistic postoperative photos helps align expectations, ensuring your results enhance rather than overpower your features. Where Are the Incisions? Lip augmentation with fillers involves only tiny needle or cannula entry points that heal within days. Fat transfer requires a small incision, typically hidden in the belly button or hip crease, for fat harvest. Micro-cannula entry points at lip border Incisions are carefully planned to follow natural contours and are closed with precision to support proper healing and minimize long-term visibility. Is Scarring a Concern? For filler-based augmentation, scarring is virtually nonexistent because only needle punctures are used. Fat transfer harvest sites heal with a tiny, barely visible mark once fully matured. Scar Healing Timeline As your body heals, puncture sites and any small harvest incisions will change gradually over time: Weeks 1–2 Red or pink spots may be noticeable but fade quickly Months 1–3 Sites flatten and lighten; makeup easily conceals any residual color Around 6 months Most patients can no longer locate the puncture or harvest point 1–2 years Scar maturation complete with minimal, if any, visible trace Following post-operative instructions and recommended scar care plays an important role in how scars mature.

Understanding Risks and Safety Lip augmentation is generally safe when performed by an experienced injector in an accredited medical setting. However, as with any procedure, there are potential risks to be aware of. Potential risks may include: • Temporary swelling or bruising • Lumps, bumps, or asymmetry • Infection at injection site • Allergic reaction to filler ingredients • Vascular occlusion (rare but serious) • Numbness or changes in sensation Your surgeon will review these risks with you in detail during your consultation and explain how they are minimized through careful planning, surgical technique, and follow-up care. Reducing Your Risk Your safety is a top priority at South Coast Plastic Surgery. Steps taken to support a safe lip augmentation experience include: • Comprehensive medical history review • Use of FDA-approved products sourced directly from manufacturers • Cannula techniques to reduce trauma and vascular complications • Immediate access to hyaluronidase to dissolve filler if necessary By choosing an experienced clinical team and following recovery guidelines closely, most patients heal well and are thrilled with their lip augmentation results.