Manhattan

121 East 60th Street, Suite 8AB, New York, NY 10022

Ph. (212) 285-1110

Long Island

901 Stewart Ave, Suite 240, Garden City, NY 11530

Ph. (516) 512-7616

New York City (212) 285-1110

Garden City, NY (516) 512-7616

Lip Enhancement in New York

The aging process changes hormones, pulls, tears and wrinkles the skin. Sometimes the change seems to start to happen overnight and can be difficult to keep up with. The face loses natural, youthful fat in the cheeks, underneath the eyes, and in the lips, and drags the skin down to the chin and neck area.

Thin lips can create more pronounced wrinkles and change the appearance of your facial balance. There are non-invasive treatment solutions, and depending on the cosmetic goals you can set with your dermatologist, your lips can be brought back to life. Double board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic expert Dr. Rokhsar specializes in lip enhancement1 treatments in NYC and Long Island. To learn more about his work, contact Cosmetic, Skin, and Laser Surgery Center and book a consultation today.

Get Full Lips

With the advent of safe injectable treatments, it has become very simple to shape your lips to a more full voluptuous form without making it look unnatural. The lips provide one of the more attractive features of the face and contribute significantly to the appearance of a beautiful face. There are a number of factors that may contribute to less than full lips. Some people just simply have thin lips. Other causes include aging, sun damage, and smoking which can result in wrinkling, thinning, and atrophy of the lips.

There are many substances that can be injected into the lips to give a more full and youthful appearance. Dr. Rokhsar currently believes that Restylane can give the most natural results with virtually no side effects compared to other products.

Fat transfer into the lips involves the harvesting of fat which can be more involved. It also usually results in overdone lips which can look unnatural. Collagen simply disappears within a few weeks. Radiesse and Sculptra can cause nodule formation. Restylane is the ideal substance as it is a natural sugar found in your skin with virtually no risks of allergy or potential for lumpiness in the lips.

Why Are Big Lips Appealing?

A research study sought to find the answer to one of the oldest questions in the book: “Which facial feature MOST attracts people to each other?” The answer was quickly apparent.

By studying the eye movements of men meeting women for the first time, scientists discovered that in the first 10 seconds of looking at a woman, men spent on average over half that time looking at their lips. If women had larger lips, the men stared around 7.3 seconds. If women had thinner lips, the men spent 2.2 seconds on average.

There are many reasons why larger lips are appealing. Certainly, the larger lips on display by pop stars and celebrities have an influence. There may be physiological reasons for the appeal as well, dealing with where blood flows during arousal. Whatever the reason for the appeal, bigger lips are not something that you can achieve on your own, through diet and exercise for example. And you are best served by avoiding dangerous methods of enhancing the lips (such as the Kylie Jenner Challenge, which was popular in social media recently).

Lip Enhancement in NYC

Restylane is an injectable filler, designed to treat moderate to severe wrinkles and folds. Lips come in all different shapes and sizes, which means they age differently. Restylane is a formulated filler that can provide subtle enhancements to the upper and lower lips. It can be injected with tailored precision, in order to provide patients with the level of fullness they desire. It is composed of a clear gel formulation of hyaluronic acid.

Hyaluronic acid is naturally present in the body. It is found most highly concentrated in the eyes and joints, as it acts as a cushion and hydrating mechanism. As a natural complex sugar that attaches itself to water, hyaluronic acid has the ability to absorb more than one thousand times its own weight. Because hyaluronic acid is naturally produced in the body, it is digested out of the body in a pain-free and gradual way.

Another treatment option in the filler family is Juvederm. Juvederm has a thicker viscosity than Restylane, which ensures plumper lips and a more defined result. It is important to decide with your cosmetic surgeon, which filler is best suited for your face type and lip structure. It is important to restore balance back to the face while providing natural and youthful results.

Fuller Lips that Look Natural

Dr. Rokhsar believes that fuller, more voluptuous lips do not mean that you have to sacrifice the natural appearance of your lips. Dr. Rokhsar uses Restylane to restore the youthful appearance of your lips and plump them instantaneously.

For most patients, beautiful lips can be attained virtually pain-free with a few simple injections. Dr. Rokhsar uses the most advanced techniques to achieve numbness of the lips for comfort so you will not feel the procedure. The treatment takes about 15 minutes and your results will last 6-12 months. The material needs to be injected into the right place to give you a natural long-lasting appearance.

The age range of patients requesting lip enhancement2 is varied. Dr. Rokhsar has treated young models in their early twenties to individuals in their eighties. If you have always desired to have more “pouty” or voluptuous lips, or desire to restore back your lips to when you were younger, there is a simple no downtime procedure available.

Care Tips for Chapped Lips

Chapped lips can not only be an annoyance but also painful and embarrassing. Follow these steps to a plumper, healthier set of lips during the chilly season.

  1. Protect your lips: Ointment-based products that contain ingredients such as shea butter, lanolin, vitamin E, and agents such as beeswax and skin-protector dimethicone, are useful for keeping lips firm and moisturized. Protecting your lips from sunburn with a balm that provides an SPF protection of 30 or higher is another key step. Protect your lips even during the colder seasons when indoor heating systems dry out your skin, especially your lips.
  2. Do not lick! It may feel good to nourish your lips with the simple remedy of some saliva, but saliva evaporates quickly and winds up leaving lips dryer than they were before you licked them.
  3. Keep hydrated: Probably the leading cause of most dry or cracked lips is simple dehydration. If the body does not have enough water the extremities, including the lips, will show that lack first.
  4. Avoid allergens: Many cracked and dry lips are the results of negative reactions to cosmetics and skincare products. Overusing commercial products can aggravate the very condition they are supposedly designed to cure.
    Certain medications have dry or cracked lips as a side effect. If your condition coincides with beginning a new medication regimen, consult your doctor about this possibility.
  5. Breathe through your nose: When you catch even the common cold, it can be hard to breathe through your nose, which causes you to breathe through your mouth. This excessive airflow only dries out your lip’s skin even more, only adding to the list of things to treat while you are already sick.

Lip Enhancement: Before and After

Lip Enhancement: Before and After Treatment Photo - patient 1
Lip Enhancement: Before and After Treatment Photo - patient 2
Lip Enhancement: Before and After Treatment Photo - patient 3

*Results may vary.

Why Choose Dr. Rokhsar for Lip Enhancement Treatment in New York and Long Island?

Dr. Rokhsar has provided lip enhancement procedures in NY and Long Island for years and he was among the first physicians to offer injectable treatments for this part of the face. Because the lips are an extremely sensitive area of the face, Dr. Rokhsar numbs all of his clients first with an injection of lidocaine, making the procedure completely painless. With a mirror in your hand, you can guide him in real-time to produce the effect you want to achieve without an overdone, unnatural, swollen look.

If you want to learn more, contact Cosmetic, Skin, and Laser Surgery Center and book a consultation today.

Lip Enhancement FAQ

What is a lip pop enhancement?

The “Lip Pop” technique, also known as the “Lip Flip,” is a nonsurgical cosmetic procedure that uses Botox injections to relax the upper lip muscle and flip the lip, creating a fuller and more pouty appearance. The procedure involves a few small injections of Botox into the muscle near the lip border, which allows for a subtly fuller and smoother appearance of the upper lip. This procedure is especially suitable for those who want a fuller upper lip but do not want to use dermal fillers.

On the other hand, lip filler augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that uses injectable dermal fillers to give the lips a fuller, plumper appearance. This procedure involves injecting a filler into the lips, which can range from temporary to longer-lasting results.

There are potential risks and side effects associated with both procedures, including infection, asymmetry, and migration of the filler. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a board certified dermatologist and discuss any concerns or questions before undergoing any cosmetic procedure.

How do lip injections work?

Lip injections are a cosmetic procedure that involves the injection of a filler substance into the lips to enhance their shape, size, and overall appearance. The most commonly used filler for lip injections is hyaluronic acid-based fillers like Juvéderm or Restylane. The procedure typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes and requires no downtime.

During the procedure, the lips are first cleansed with alcohol and then anesthetized to reduce pain and discomfort. Dr.Rokhsar is an expert in administering nerve blocks which makes the lip filler procedure completely painless. The filler is then injected with a small needle into the areas that need volume, and the material is gently massaged to prevent the formation of lumps. The amount of filler used and the location of the injection will depend on the patient’s desired outcome and the advice of your board certified dermatologist.

Lip injections are generally safe when performed by an experienced board certified dermatologist, and the side effects are mild and self-limited. These include possible swelling, bruising, redness, and tenderness at the site of the injection, which can last up to two weeks.

The duration of the results varies depending on the type of filler used, with some lasting up to 12 months. The cost of lip injections usually ranges based on the filler used and the volume of the filler. Most people need one to two syringes of filler for nice lip filler results.

What is used for lip injections?

Injectable dermal fillers are the most commonly used method of lip augmentation. The fillers used for lip injections are typically made of hyaluronic acid, a substance that occurs naturally in the body and helps to add volume and moisture to the skin. Some commonly used fillers for lip injections include Juvéderm, Restylane vollure and RH fillers.

Overall, lip injections using hyaluronic acid-based fillers are a popular and effective way to enhance the appearance of lips. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced board certified dermatologist to discuss options and potential risks before undergoing the procedure. Dr. Rokhsar is double board certified in dermatology and dermatologic surgery and is a trainer for many filler companies. Dr. Rokhsar is a professor of Dermatology and teaches the cosmetic dermatology clinic at Mount Sinai Hospital.

How painful are lip injections?

Lip injections can cause mild discomfort and pain, but there are ways to reduce or eliminate these unpleasant sensations. A topical cream is usually applied to the lips before the injection to numb the injection sites and reduce any discomfort. Ice can also help vasoconstrict the lips and prevent excessive swelling. Smaller needles create less trauma and pain to the lip so we utilize the smallest most effective needles available. Dr. Rokhsar is also very experienced in administering nerve blocks to make your lip filler injections one hundred percent painless.

Overall, the level of pain and discomfort experienced during lip injections can vary from person to person, but there are ways to minimize it. It’s important to consult with a qualified and experienced dermatologist and discuss any concerns or questions you may have before undergoing the procedure.

How to prepare for lip injections?

If you are considering getting lip injections, it’s important to prepare yourself properly to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Here are some tips to help you prepare:

  • Research the procedure and your injector: Before you book an appointment, do your research on the lip injection procedure and the injector who will be performing it. Make sure you choose an experienced board certified dermatologist who uses safe, FDA-approved fillers. You can also ask to see before and after photos of their previous clients.
  • Avoid blood-thinning medications: One week prior to your lip injection appointment, avoid taking over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, Motrin, ibuprofen, and Aleve. These medications can increase the risk of bruising and swelling after the procedure. Avoid fish oil, vitamins and supplements as well.
  • Discuss your medical history with your doctor. Inform your doctor of any medical conditions you have, any medications you’re currently taking, and any allergies you may have. This information can help your injector determine if you’re a good candidate for lip injections and which type of filler is best for you.
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine: The night before your appointment, avoid consuming alcohol and caffeine, as they can dehydrate you and increase the risk of bruising and swelling. Instead, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
  • Plan for downtime: While lip injections require minimal downtime, you may experience some swelling and bruising for a few days after the procedure. Plan accordingly and avoid scheduling any important events immediately following your appointment.
  • Follow aftercare instructions: After your lip injection procedure, your injector will provide you with aftercare instructions. These may include avoiding certain activities and products for a few days, applying ice to the injection site, and taking pain medication as needed. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure a smooth recovery. Icing after the procedure is very helpful to decrease swelling.

It’s important to remember that lip injections are not a one-size-fits-all procedure. The best way to prepare for your lip injection appointment is to consult with a board certified dermatologist and follow their personalized recommendations. By taking the necessary precautions and following aftercare instructions, you can achieve beautiful, natural-looking lip filler results.

How long does it take lip filler to settle?

It takes approximately 2-4 weeks for lip fillers to settle. During the first 24 hours after treatment, it is recommended to avoid applying pressure or massaging the lips. Within the first few days, the lips may still be swollen, sensitive, and bruised, and may feel bumpy as the swelling subsides and the fillers settle into the lips. Patients can expect to see an immediate improvement after the treatment, but the final results will not be visible until two to three weeks after the procedure, when the fillers have fully settled into the skin. The duration of the lip filler effect can vary, with most lasting up to 6 months to one year, depending on the type of filler used and the patient’s care routine. It is recommended to avoid using lip balm or gloss for at least 24 hours after treatment to avoid putting too much pressure on the fresh filler. Applying ice to the lips afterward can help ease swelling, itching, and bruising.

How to reduce swelling in lips after lip injections?

Swelling is a common side effect of lip injections. However, there are several ways to reduce swelling in lips after lip injections.

Firstly, icing your lips right before the injection can help reduce bruising and swelling. Applying ice to your lips afterward using an ice pack or an ice cube covered in a thin cloth can also help ease swelling, itching, and bruising.

Arnica creams, gels and pills can be helpful before and after injection to control swelling. It is also recommended to avoid exercise and alcohol for 24 hours after the procedure to reduce swelling.

Finally, staying hydrated is crucial after lip injections. Drinking water can help minimize swelling.

How to get rid of bruising fast after lip injections?

Getting rid of bruising fast after lip injections can be challenging, but there are a few things that you can do to speed up the healing process. Here are some tips that you can follow:

  • Apply a warm compress: A warm compress can help the bruising resolve faster.
  • Apply ice: Applying ice to your lips afterward using an ice pack or an ice cube covered in a thin cloth can help ease swelling, itching, and bruising.
  • Avoid medication and supplements that increase the risk of bruising: Aspirin, ibuprofen, alcohol, fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, ginseng, and St. John’s wort are some common medications and supplements that can increase the likelihood of bruising. Therefore, it is important to avoid them before and after the procedure.
  • Take Arnica: Arnica is an herb that is commonly used to treat swelling, pain, and bruising. You can ask your injector or primary care provider (PCP) for Arnica, or it is also possible to buy it over the counter at most health food stores.
  • Dr Rokhsar can treat the bruised areas with the Vbeam laser to expedite the resolution of the swelling.

It may take up to a week for the bruising to go away completely. However, these tips may help speed up the healing process and reduce the severity of the bruising. If you have any concerns about your bruising or lip injections, it is best to consult with your doctor or injector.

How to massage lip filler lumps?

Lip filler lumps can be common after getting lip fillers, but they can be easily massaged out. Here are some steps on how to massage lip filler lumps:

  • Apply a warm compress to your lips for 2 minutes to warm up the area before your filler massage.
  • Gently massage the area with your fingers in a circular kneading motion for 2-3 minutes.
  • Alternatively, use a lip scrub to get rid of any dead skin that can cause lumps, then apply an ice pack and massage the lips in a circular motion.
  • Repeat the process until the lump has vanished.
  • If the lump is still there after two weeks, visit your board certified dermatologist to discuss other options such as manual massage, steroid injection, or hyaluronidase injections to dissolve your filler.

After getting lip fillers, there may be some swelling and bruising, so it is recommended to wait until these have subsided before massaging the lips. Dr Rokhsar recommends waiting for a full two weeks for your fillers to settle. Additionally, it is advised to massage the lips gently to avoid damaging the filler or causing more lumps.

How long does Juvederm lip filler last?

Juvederm is a type of dermal filler commonly used for lip augmentation. The duration of the results of Juvederm lip filler can vary depending on the formula used, the amount of filler injected, the individual’s metabolism, and the area treated. As a general rule, filler endures longest in areas with thinner skin, areas with little vascularity or blood flow, and areas with not much movement.

Most Juvederm lip fillers can last from six months to a year. However, some formulas can last up to 18 months, such as Vollure XC. Juvederm Ultra Plus XC can last a year or more.

It typically takes about two weeks for the filler to settle in and achieve the final, desired look. You can see immediate results with Juvederm, and it takes about two weeks to see the complete results. Results may vary for each person based on genetics, metabolism and other factors.

In conclusion, Juvederm lip fillers can last from six months to a year or more, depending on the formula used and other individual factors. To maintain the results, it is necessary to repeat the treatment periodically. If you are considering Juvederm lip filler, it is best to consult with a qualified injector to determine the best formula and treatment plan for your desired results.

How to make lip filler last longer?

The longevity of lip fillers can vary depending on various factors. Here are some tips on how to make lip fillers last longer:

  • Choose the right type of filler: Fillers using hyaluronic acid can last from three months to over two years. Some fillers may last longer than others, so it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor.
  • Get regular injections: Regular lip injections can help results last longer. However, over-filling can lead to unnatural results and should be avoided.
  • Avoid sun exposure: Too much UV rays can cause fillers to break down faster, and your body will absorb them sooner. Always wear sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, and limit your time in the sun between the hottest hours of 11-3. Wearing a hat with a wide brim and sunglasses can also help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
  • Stay hydrated: Hydration not only keeps wrinkles at bay, but it also helps maintain your injections. Drinking enough water and using a lip balm that contains occlusive emollients like petrolatum, beeswax, coconut oil, cocoa butter, or shea butter can help keep your lips hydrated and prevent the filler from breaking down.
  • Manage stress: Stress can cause the hormone cortisol to break down fillers sooner. Finding ways to reduce stress, such as exercise or meditation, may help prolong the life of your lip fillers.
  • Avoid physical exercise: After getting fillers, it’s recommended to avoid physical exercise for at least 1-2 days. This can help prevent the filler from moving or breaking down too quickly.

What is the best lip filler?

The best lip fillers are those that create a natural, voluminous look, are low risk, and provide consistently satisfactory results. The most popular type of filler that fits this description is hyaluronic acid lip fillers, which contain a sugar called hyaluronic acid that is naturally present in the skin and draws water to the surface of the lips and skin, creating a desired plumping effect. Among hyaluronic acid fillers, Juvéderm is one type of filler that effectively adds volume to the lips and plumps the mouth area to treat smile lines and wrinkles. Juvéderm has a smoother gel consistency that is malleable, producing natural-looking results. Other hyaluronic acid fillers mentioned include Restylane and collagen fillers. Another filler commonly used by Dr. Rokhsar is Restylane. Restylane has been around for 20 years as an FDA approved filler in the United States. Restylane gives very natural subtle results when injected into the lip.

The best lip fillers are those that are administered by experienced and qualified board certified dermatologists who are trained in the proper techniques to avoid complications and side effects. In addition, keeping the lips well-moisturized with lip creams can help avoid splits and cracks.

It is important to keep in mind that the best lip filler for an individual may depend on their personal preferences and goals. Before undergoing any lip filler treatment, it is recommended to consult with a board certified dermatologist to determine the best approach for achieving the desired results. Dr. Rokhsar uses many fillers in the lips including Restylane, Jevederm, Vollure, Voluma, and RH fillers.

How much does lip filler cost?

The cost of lip fillers can vary depending on several factors such as the type of filler used, the amount of filler injected, the provider’s experience, and the location of the practice. It is important to discuss the costs and expected results with a qualified and experienced board certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon before undergoing any cosmetic procedures.

How soon after lip injections can you get more?

Most patients can receive further lip injections 3-6 months after their initial treatment. However, the exact timing may vary depending on the individual’s healing process and the amount of filler used in the initial treatment. It is also recommended to wait at least 2 weeks for swelling to subside before receiving additional injections. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours after receiving lip fillers and to drink plenty of water to reduce the risk of excessive swelling. It is normal to experience some swelling and bruising after lip injections, which should subside within the first 2 weeks.

What not to do after lip injections?

After getting lip injections, it is important to take proper care of your lips to ensure a smooth recovery process and achieve the desired results. Here are some things you should avoid doing after getting lip injections:

  • Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours after getting lip or any other dermal fillers. Elevated blood pressure and heart rate from exercise may make swelling or bruising worse.
  • Avoid drinking alcohol or smoking for 24 hours after getting lip fillers. Alcohol can act as a blood thinner, which increases the likelihood of bruising, inflammation, and swelling. Drinking alcohol can also dehydrate you, and it is recommended to drink lots of water and stay hydrated after getting lip filler.
  • Avoid kissing for at least 24 hours post-treatment, as it might interfere with how the lip fillers settle into your lips.
  • Avoid any type of dental work, including a basic cleaning, within four weeks of filler injections.
  • Do not sleep flat on your face for 3-4 days after your treatment. Instead, try sleeping with your head elevated to reduce swelling.
  • Do not touch or massage the facial area for about 6 hours after the procedure.
  • Do not wear glasses or hats that may press against a treatment site for 6 hours afterward.

After getting lip injections, you may experience short-term side effects such as swelling, bruising, pain or tenderness, numbness, itching, and lumpiness. Putting an ice pack gently on your lips should ease most side effects, and some will go away within hours while others may take up to a week to fully subside. If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your recovery process, it is best to consult with your dermatologist.

How much does it cost to dissolve lip filler?

The cost to dissolve lip filler can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the type of filler used, the amount of filler injected, and the location of the clinic. The final cost ultimately depends on how much hyaluronidase or vitrase is needed to dissolve your particular filler. For instance it takes more units of vitrase or hyaluronidase to dissolve Juvederm or Voluma than Restylane.

It is important to consult with a qualified doctor for an evaluation of the specific situation and to determine the cost of dissolving lip fillers. There can be variations in how much hyaluronidase needs to be injected and how many sessions are required. It is also not recommended to attempt to dissolve lip fillers at home, as lip fillers are an injectable treatment that should only be administered in a doctor’s setting.

New York Office Locations

Upper East Side Manhattan Office
121 East 60th Street, Suite 8AB New York, NY 10022
(212) 285-1110

Long Island Office
901 Stewart Ave, Suite 240, Garden City, NY 11530
(516) 512-7616

Request an Appointment

References

  1. Options to achieve fuller or smoother lips. Available: https://www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org/procedure-learning-center/facial-procedures/lip-enhancement/.
  2. Customized lip enhancement for clinical different lip features: An observational study. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31573134/.

About author - Dr. Cameron Rokhsar

Dr. Cameron Rokhsar

Dr. Cameron Rokhsar, MD, FAAD, FAACS, is the founder and medical director of the New York Cosmetic, Skin, & Laser Surgery Center. Dr. Rokhsar is a graduate of Harvard College and NYU School of Medicine. Dr. Rokhsar is double board certified in dermatology and micrographic dermatologic surgery, being one of the few select dermatologists in the country who is also fellowship trained in laser surgery. A researcher and innovator, Dr. Rokhsar is the creator of the non-surgical nose job and has been instrumental in the research and development of laser systems such as the Fraxel, CO2, Mirady, Vbeam, Themitight, and Ulthera devices. An Associate Professor of Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC, Dr. Rokhsar actively teaches the cosmetic dermatology clinic to the resident at Mount Sinai. An expert injector of fillers, and a trainer for many companies, patients fly in from around the world to see Dr. Rokhsar in his Garden City and Manhattan offices in New York.

Learn more about Dr. Rokhsar | Dr. Rokhsar's Google Scholar