Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid has become a very popular aesthetic medicine treatment in recent years. Many people, both women and men, choose it to improve the look of their lips and add volume. Hyaluronic acid, which occurs naturally in our bodies, is used to hydrate and fill the lips. However, like any medical procedure, lip augmentation has certain contraindications that are worth knowing about before you decide. In this article we discuss the main contraindications that may rule out the treatment, as well as the risks associated with it.
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What is hyaluronic acid?
Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring polysaccharide found in our bodies, mainly in the skin, joints and eyes. Its main role is to keep tissues hydrated and elastic. In aesthetic medicine, hyaluronic acid is used as a dermal filler.
What does lip augmentation involve?
Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid involves injecting a product containing HA into the vermilion (the red part of the lips) to shape the lips and give them volume. The procedure is relatively quick, taking about 60 minutes including the medical history, and the results are visible almost immediately. One advantage of hyaluronic acid is that it is biodegradable: the body gradually absorbs it, so the results are not permanent. They last up to 12 months, after which the lips return to their original shape.
The product can be injected using different techniques. One of them is flat contouring, which accentuates the lip border and the vermilion without pushing the lips forward. We describe it in our article Flat lips: what the technique involves and when it makes sense.
Main contraindications to the treatment
- Allergy to ingredients of the product
One of the most important contraindications to lip augmentation is an allergy to ingredients of the product. Although hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the human body, some people may be allergic to other ingredients of the filler, such as cross-linking agents or anaesthetics. A thorough medical history should be taken before the treatment.
- Skin infections
Any skin infection around the mouth, such as cold sores (herpes), acne or other inflammatory lesions, is an absolute contraindication to the treatment. Injecting hyaluronic acid into infected skin can spread the infection and lead to serious complications.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid cosmetic treatments with hyaluronic acid. Although there are no conclusive studies showing that HA is harmful to the foetus or the baby, it is advisable to avoid all invasive treatments during this time to minimise the risk.
- Tendency to scar
People who tend to scar, including those prone to hypertrophic scars and keloids, should be especially careful when deciding on lip augmentation. Even minor skin damage can lead to unsightly scarring, which can be particularly problematic in a treatment on the lips.
- Chronic diseases
Some chronic diseases, such as diabetes, may also be a contraindication to the treatment. Diabetes affects wound healing, which can increase the risk of complications after the treatment. For this reason, people with diabetes should consult a doctor before deciding on lip augmentation.
Possible side effects and complications
- Allergic reactions
Although rare, allergic reactions can occur. They are linked not to the hyaluronic acid itself but to the cross-linking agent or the anaesthetic contained in the product. Symptoms may include itching, redness, swelling and, in the most severe cases, difficulty breathing. That is why it is important to take a thorough allergy history before the treatment.
- Infections
As with any invasive treatment, there is a risk of infection. Symptoms may include pain, redness, swelling and discharge of pus. If you notice any signs of infection, contact the person who performed the treatment straight away.
- Filler migration
Hyaluronic acid can migrate from the injection site, leading to lip asymmetry. To avoid this, it is important that the treatment is performed by an experienced specialist who knows facial anatomy and injection techniques.
Psychological contraindications
- Unrealistic expectations
One of the most important things to consider before the treatment is the patient’s expectations. People with unrealistic expectations about the results may be disappointed with the outcome. That is why it is important to discuss your expectations in detail with the person performing the treatment before you decide.
- Addiction to cosmetic treatments
People who are addicted to aesthetic treatments may expose themselves to excessive risk. Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid can be repeated, but having it done too often can lead to health complications and aesthetic problems.
Summary
Lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid is an effective and safe aesthetic treatment, but like any medical procedure, it has its contraindications and potential risks. Before deciding on the treatment, it is important to fully understand all aspects of the procedure and to consult a qualified specialist. Following the recommendations and respecting the contraindications can help you avoid unwanted side effects and achieve satisfying results.