Lip Augmentation — Hyaluronic Acid

Lip augmentation at Brandeis Clinic uses Juvéderm hyaluronic acid fillers — specifically the Volbella range — to increase lip volume, improve shape, and define the lip border. The treatment is performed by MUDr. Lucie Kalinová, a certified filler trainer, who also treats the surrounding areas if needed: smoker's lines above the lip, philtrum columns, and downturned lip corners. The session takes approximately 20 minutes; results are visible immediately and last 6–12 months as the hyaluronic acid is gradually absorbed. A topical numbing cream is available to minimise discomfort during injection.

Lip augmentation at Brandeis Clinic is performed by MUDr. Lucie Kalinová, who holds certified-trainer status in hyaluronic acid fillers — the qualification that permits her to teach other practitioners. This level of experience and accountability is a meaningful differentiator for a procedure where technical skill directly determines whether the result looks natural or artificial. **Product used:** The clinic uses Juvéderm fillers (Allergan / AbbVie), specifically the Volbella formulation for the lips and perioral area. Juvéderm Volbella uses VYCROSS cross-linking technology, which produces a smooth, cohesive gel with moderate lift capacity — appropriate for the thin, mobile skin of the lip. The gel is also hydrophilic, drawing and retaining water in the treated tissue and contributing to the soft, plump appearance. HA fillers are fully reversible using hyaluronidase enzyme injection if the patient is dissatisfied. **What can be treated:** The lips themselves — increasing volume in the body of the upper and/or lower lip, or creating more definition at the vermilion border (the lip outline). The philtrum columns — the two ridges above the upper lip — can be enhanced to create a more pronounced Cupid's bow. Downturned lip corners can be lifted by placing small volumes at the modiolus. Perioral smoker's lines can be softened. The full perioral treatment is typically called a lip area or perioral rejuvenation session and can be accomplished in 20–30 minutes. **Volume and approach:** One millilitre of filler is the standard starting quantity for most lip treatments. For patients with very thin lips or those wanting significant augmentation, 1.5–2ml may be discussed. The approach at Brandeis Clinic is gradual and conservative at first appointments — particularly for patients who have not had fillers before — with the option to add volume at a follow-up appointment once initial swelling has resolved and the patient can assess the baseline result. **Preparation:** Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before treatment (increases bruising). Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and ginkgo biloba for several days before (reduces bruising risk). If you have a history of oral herpes (cold sores), discuss antiviral prophylaxis with the clinic — lip manipulation can trigger an outbreak. Avoid sun exposure, waxing, and other lip treatments for 48 hours before. **The session:** A topical numbing cream is applied before injection. The Juvéderm range also contains lidocaine within the gel itself, providing progressive anaesthesia as the filler is placed. The injection session takes approximately 20 minutes. Some immediate redness, minor swelling and occasional bruising are expected and typically resolve within 24–72 hours. **Results and longevity:** Results are visible immediately, though initial assessment is best done at 2 weeks after swelling has fully resolved. Juvéderm Volbella lasts approximately 9–12 months in the lips; the philtrum and border areas may maintain correction for slightly longer. The filler is gradually absorbed and repeat treatment is typically needed 1–2 times per year. **Contraindications:** Pregnant or nursing women. Active herpes labialis (cold sores) — treatment must wait until fully resolved. Significant bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy. Autoimmune conditions affecting healing.