Lip Treatment Sydney

Types of Lip Augmentation Techniques

Lip augmentation is a versatile treatment designed to enhance lip volume, refine lip shape, define the Cupid’s Bow and create balance and harmony with surrounding facial features. Individuals may seek treatment for a variety of reasons, including naturally smaller lips, changes in volume over time, asymmetry or a preference for increased definition.

Because lip anatomy and tissue characteristics vary from person to person, treatment is tailored to suit individual goals and facial structure. Some individuals prefer a subtle enhancement, while others may wish to focus on lip shape, definition or symmetry between the upper and lower lip.

There are several lip augmentation techniques available, including standard lip augmentation, Russian lip augmentation and our Kiss Me Lip Augmentation Technique. These techniques differ in product placement, injection depth, and the specific areas of the lips treated.

Standard Lip Enhancement Technique

This technique involves placing product throughout the lips, using a needle to add volume and adjust lip shape. When performed conservatively, this approach can result in a subtle change to the appearance of the lips. It is commonly chosen by individuals seeking a modest change rather than a more noticeable lip alteration.

Russian-Style Lip Technique

This technique has gained attention on social media and often involves placing larger volumes of product to expand the lips vertically. While immediate post-treatment appearances may appeal to some individuals, changes to the lips can become more apparent (and less appealing) as swelling resolves and tissues settle.

In many cases, product migration can be noticed within a few days after treatment. Over time, this migration is particularly noticeable above the upper lip and around the outer edges of the lower lip. This can result in distorted lip borders, loss of definition and an overfilled or unnatural appearance.

Kiss Me Lip Enhancement Technique

The Kiss Me Lip Enhancement Technique is a method we have developed and use in our Bella Vista clinic. It focuses on the strategic placement of the product predominantly within the inner portion of the upper lip, specifically within the Cupid’s Bow border, rather than the outer upper lip.

The majority of the product is placed via needle, inside the upper lip, with a smaller amount placed centrally in the lower lip. This aims to support definition, projection and shape, while reducing the likelihood of product migration and maintaining natural lip structure.

Why Immediate Post-Treatment Images Can Be Misleading

When viewing images or videos of lip augmentation, it’s vital to understand that the appearance of the lips immediately after treatment does not often reflect the final outcome.

In the early post-treatment phase, the lips commonly appear swollen and firm as part of the body’s normal inflammatory response. This temporary swelling can exaggerate shape and definition, particularly through the Cupid’s Bow. This may give the impression of a more refined or structured result than what remains once the tissues settle.

As swelling reduces and the lips begin to stabilise, changes in shape, proportion and definition often become more apparent. In some cases, a product that initially appeared well-contained may become visible above the upper lip as the tissue softens and natural movement resumes.

This process, often referred to as migration, may not be evident in images captured immediately following treatment. For this reason, the shape and definition seen straight after treatment frequently differ from the appearance once the lips have fully settled.

It’s also crucial to recognise that makeup, lip liner, lipstick, lighting, camera angles and digital filters are commonly used in promotional content. These factors can significantly alter the appearance of the lips and may not accurately reflect how the results look in everyday settings.

Importantly, Australia’s medical regulator, the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), has established formal advertising guidelines for regulated health services on their website.

These require that images not be digitally altered or misleading, and that they accurately represent treatment outcomes once tissues have settled. Unfortunately, though, these standards are not always consistently applied across the industry.

At Bella Plastic Surgery, transparency is an integral part of our clinical approach. Images and videos shared during consultations and across our platforms show lips that have settled, typically at least two weeks after treatment. This provides a more accurate representation of how the lips may appear once post-treatment swelling has resolved and supports informed decision-making based on realistic expectations.

Some images may be shared during consultation to help patients who want to view examples of lip augmentation. These images are shown only where the individual has provided informed, written consent for their use for educational purposes and for viewing by other patients.

Lip Product Categories

There are different categories of products used in lip augmentation. Product selection is based on anatomy, treatment goals, longevity considerations and clinical suitability.

Thin Products:

Thin products are often considered entry-level options and typically result in subtle changes. These products are designed to last approximately three to four months and may be suitable for individuals seeking minimal volume adjustment or a short-term change.

Medium Products:

Medium products have a slightly larger molecular structure and a thicker consistency. They are commonly selected when the patient desires greater longevity from the product, with an expected duration of six to nine months, while still allowing flexibility within the lips.

Semi-Permanent Products:

Semi-permanent products are firmer and more complex to work with. Therefore, they are used by fewer practitioners due to the precision required for placement.

When administered, these products are designed to remain stable within the lips and are less likely to migrate. The expected duration is approximately 18 to 24 months. However, the longevity of the product varies between individuals and may be influenced by metabolism, anatomy, lip vascularity, lifestyle factors and previous treatments.

Patients New to Lip Augmentation

Patients seeking lip augmentation for the first time must attend an in-person assessment. This consultation allows for a review of your medical history and relevant clinical factors, discussion of potential risks and complications, explanation of risk-reduction strategies and an outline of how any adverse events would be managed should they occur.

As part of this process, you will also have a consultation with a prescribing doctor, either in person when on-site or via telehealth with a remote prescribing doctor. During this consultation, the proposed treatment plan will be reviewed, your suitability for treatment assessed and any questions you may have about the procedure addressed.

This process is designed to ensure you are appropriately informed and that treatment is planned in accordance with clinical and prescribing requirements.

Pre-Treatment Requirements for Returning Patients

If a patient has previously attended our clinic, their name, address and contact details are retained in the prescribing and scripting service. However, all patients are required to complete an updated medical history at each visit and to complete the Body Dysmorphia screening assessment before any lip augmentation treatment.

Before administering any treatment, the proposed lip augmentation is discussed with the patient, including potential risks, possible complications and risk-management protocols. Patients are required to acknowledge, on each questionnaire, that they understand the proposed treatment and its associated risks. This ensures informed consent is obtained on every occasion and that patient suitability is reassessed before treatment.

Pre-Treatment Dissolving Agent – Forearm Prick Test For First-Time Lip Patients

Individuals seeking lip augmentation who have not been exposed to the dissolving agent will be required to have it administered to the forearm before treatment.

A short waiting period of around 15 minutes is required to allow any localised reaction to occur. (Your cosmetic nurse assesses the forearm to check for any abnormal response to the product.) This measure helps reduce the risk of a severe allergic reaction if a dissolving treatment is required. Typical reasons for dissolving include aesthetic correction or management of a vascular complication.

If you have previously had a dissolving agent administered without any adverse reaction, this will be taken into consideration. However, as a precaution and in line with best practice, this process is commonly recommended even where prior exposure has occurred.

Pain Management During Lip Treatment

• First, we will apply topical numbing cream to the lips. This will remain in place for approximately 60 minutes before lip augmentation treatment.
• 60 minutes allows adequate time for the area to become sufficiently numbed, reducing discomfort throughout the procedure.
• An ice pack may also be applied before treatment to help reduce swelling and bruising and support comfort.
• The product used during lip treatment also contains a numbing component, which can provide additional comfort during the procedure. Rest assured, your comfort levels are monitored throughout treatment by your cosmetic nurse.

Your Treatment

Once adequately numbed, you will be taken through to the treatment room. Your cosmetic nurse will review the treatment plan again, explaining each step as the treatment progresses so you remain fully informed.

Post-Treatment Follow-Up

• After your treatment, you’ll receive your product card, which outlines the product details used during your appointment.
• You will also receive post-treatment care instructions that reflect the verbal information provided to you before your treatment.
• As part of our post-treatment monitoring protocol, we will ask you to send a clear image of your lips within two hours of treatment. This allows your cosmetic nurse to review the treated area, confirm that swelling and bruising are within the expected range, and contact you if any follow-up guidance is required.
• Images can be sent via email, and a member of our clinical team will respond to check in on you. You will also be given an after-hours contact number so you can contact the clinic outside regular hours should you have any concerns or require support.

What to Expect After My Lip Augmentation Treatment

Following lip augmentation, it is normal for your lips to go through a period of swelling, bruising and increased redness as the tissues respond, then begin to settle. Every individual heals differently; however, the details below reflect a typical timeline following treatment.

Day of treatment
Your lips may appear very red, swollen and bruised, with some tenderness or discomfort. As the day progresses, swelling often increases, and bruising may become more noticeable. This stage can feel concerning for first-time patients; however, these symptoms are usual and to be expected.

Day two
You may wake with increased swelling and more visible bruising. This is common after lying down overnight. Your lips may feel firm or tight. By the evening of day two, some individuals notice that their swelling begins to reduce slowly.

Days three to four
Swelling continues to ease, and bruising starts to settle. Many patients begin to feel more comfortable with the appearance of their lips and can better appreciate the changes from treatment.

Day seven
Around one week post-treatment, the lips are usually much more settled. At this stage, some individuals may notice their lips appear smaller than in the early post-treatment phase and may consider further lip augmentation. It is important to remember that one ml of product is a small amount and is intended to maintain a natural appearance with a subtle volume change.

Ongoing settling and staging
After the initial swelling has reduced, the lips may continue to change as they settle. Temporary asymmetry can occur and may be influenced by swelling, bruising, individual healing response and the lips’ ability to stabilise during the early post-treatment period.

In many cases, more than one ml of product is required to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome – this is why lip augmentation is often approached as a staged process. Further assessment of symmetry, volume and overall balance is typically performed once the lips have fully settled. The timing of these events is discussed during your initial consultation.

A Final Note on Healing
Healing timelines vary, and lips can continue to settle over several weeks. If you have any concerns at any stage, we encourage you to contact our clinic for guidance or review.

Lumps Following Lip Augmentation

During the settling phase, when a semi-permanent product has been used, some individuals may notice small firm areas within the lips. These areas are most commonly felt on the inside of the lips, rather than on the surface and are related to product placement within the lip tissue.

In most cases, these firm areas soften gradually as the lips continue to settle and integrate the product. If needed, they can be reviewed and managed during a follow-up appointment with your cosmetic nurse. If you notice any changes that feel unusual or cause concern at any stage, please get in touch with our clinic for further guidance.

Patients With Previous Lip Augmentation

Patients who have had lip augmentation elsewhere and are satisfied with their results must still undergo a comprehensive consultation before further treatment.

For individuals with existing product present in their lips who want to adjust their current lip appearance, dissolving treatment may be recommended before retreatment. This is particularly the case where the Kiss Me Lip Enhancement Technique is being considered, as previously placed product can remain visible above the upper lip for extended periods and interfere with aesthetic outcomes.

Lip Dissolving for Aesthetic Correction

Many patients visiting the clinic for lip correction require dissolving treatment. Observing a reduction in product is often observed within 24 to 72 hours. However, multiple dissolving sessions may be necessary, depending on the amount and location of product present. Where clinically appropriate, some existing product may be preserved while addressing areas contributing to lip distortion.

Product Volume and Treatment Planning

The amount of product required varies from person to person. The desired aesthetic outcome, lip anatomy, existing lip size and shape, previous treatments, scar tissue, muscle activity and natural volume loss can all influence it. Treatment planning is individualised, ongoing and discussed during your initial consultation.

Retreatment Frequency and Spacing

The interval between lip treatments varies, with a minimum spacing of two weeks. However, four weeks is often recommended to allow lip swelling to resolve, product integration to occur and tissues to stabilise before retreatment.

Lip Augmentation and Product Migration

Product migration can occur immediately or over time. In many cases, migration occurs at the time of treatment and becomes visible within days to weeks. Factors contributing to migration include anatomy, tissue planes and scar tissue from previous lip treatments.

Lip Dissolving and Post-Treatment Appearance

Following product dissolving, redness, swelling and bruising are common. This is due to localised tissue response. While swelling typically resolves within the first few days, bruising and delayed reactions may persist for longer. The number of dissolving sessions required influences your post-treatment appearance, and although overall lip volume is reduced, natural tissue components typically regenerate over time.

Non-Surgical Lip Lift and Gummy Smile Considerations

In some individuals, lip anatomy and muscle movement contribute to a greater distance between the nose and upper lip, or to an inward roll of the upper lip during smiling. In selected cases, targeted placement of product within the inner upper lip and near the corners of the mouth may influence the resting position of the upper lip. This approach may be considered during assessment where upper lip inversion or increased tooth and gum exposure is present, and suitability is determined on an individual basis.

Lines Above the Upper Lip

Lines above the upper lip, commonly referred to as smoker’s lines, may develop due to a combination of factors including ageing, repetitive muscle movement, sun exposure, lifestyle factors and changes in skin quality over time.

When considering non-surgical treatment options, some clinics may recommend volumising treatments to reduce the appearance of these lines. In selected cases, a thin product may be used cautiously to soften their appearance. However, it is essential to understand that this approach involves adding volume to the area above the upper lip and may increase fullness in this region.

If excessive product is placed, this can result in distortion of the upper lip area and an unnatural appearance. For this reason, alternative treatment approaches such as skin needling, light-based therapies and medical-grade skincare may often be considered more appropriate. This is because these treatments focus on improving skin quality and texture rather than adding volume. Such treatments reduce the appearance of lines without altering the natural shape of the upper lip.

Cosmetic Lip Tattooing and Lip Augmentation

Lip augmentation may be used to increase overall lip size and improve the definition of the Cupid’s Bow. However, it does not address loss of natural lip pigment. Where pigmentation is reduced, colour is uneven, or lip borders are poorly defined, cosmetic lip tattooing options such as lip blush, lip liner or a combination of both may be considered.

During your initial consultation and assessment, the lips are reviewed for pigment distribution, border definition and overall suitability, and cosmetic lip tattooing may be discussed where appropriate.

In most cases, where lip enhancement is desired in combination with cosmetic tattooing, lip enhancement treatment is initially recommended. This supports lip expansion and establishes clearer borders, including the Cupid’s Bow, providing a more stable base for tattooing.

Without adequate lip volume, cosmetic tattoo pigment may extend beyond the natural lip borders. The number of lip enhancement treatments required before cosmetic lip tattooing varies and is influenced by individual anatomy, existing lip structure, and aesthetic considerations discussed during your consultation.

Potential Side Effects

All cosmetic treatments, including lip augmentation, involve some risk. To ensure you are fully informed in your decision-making, you must understand the possible side effects before proceeding with treatment.

While many patients do not experience adverse outcomes, there is a possibility of side effects; therefore, you must be fully aware of all potential risks and complications.

Potential risks associated with lip augmentation are discussed in detail during your consultation with both your cosmetic nurse and the prescribing doctor. These consultations are conducted before every lip augmentation treatment to ensure your medical history, treatment suitability, and clinical considerations are reviewed each time.

This process allows for ongoing assessment, discussion of potential risks and confirmation that treatment remains appropriate for you.

A thorough consultation process ensures you receive the information needed to decide how you wish to proceed with treatment.

For more information, please see our Risks and Possible Complications page.

Who may be suitable for lip augmentation at Bella Plastic Surgery?

Lip augmentation may be considered for individuals seeking changes to lip shape, definition of the Cupid’s Bow, lip volume, symmetry or overall lip proportion. Suitability is determined through an in-person consultation, during which factors such as lip anatomy, previous treatment history, skin quality, medical history, healing response, and individual aesthetic preferences are considered. A formal assessment is required before treatment to provide you with different lip treatment options so that you can make an informed decision about how you would like to proceed.

How long does lip augmentation last?

Longevity following lip augmentation varies between individuals. Duration may depend on product type, anatomy, metabolism, lifestyle factors and treatment history. Semi-permanent products are designed to last approximately eighteen to twenty-four months. Review timing is discussed during consultation and is based on individual circumstances.

Will my lips look natural after lip augmentation?

Lip augmentation at Bella Plastic Surgery is planned with consideration of the existing lip anatomy, tissue behaviour and treatment history. Final appearance varies between individuals, particularly during the settling phase. In many cases, staged treatment is required to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome, especially for individuals with minimal natural lip volume or a history of prior dissolving.

Can the product move after lip augmentation?

Product movement may occur at the time of treatment or over time. While placement techniques are carefully selected to reduce the likelihood of migration, long-term outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Factors influencing product behaviour include anatomy, tissue planes, previous treatments and existing scar tissue within the lips.

What is the expected recovery period following lip augmentation?

Lip redness, tenderness, swelling and bruising are expected following lip augmentation. Swelling commonly increases within the first 24 to 72 hours, then gradually decreases. Bruising may persist for up to one week or longer, depending on the individual’s healing response. Recovery expectations and post-treatment care instructions are discussed during consultation.

What should be avoided before lip augmentation?

Certain substances that have been consumed before your lip augmentation treatment may increase the likelihood of swelling and bruising post-treatment. These substances include alcohol, blood-thinning medications and supplements such as fish oil, among others. We will provide you with individualised guidance on medications and supplements during your consultation based on your medical history and current health status.

Can I have lip augmentation if my previous lip treatment was performed elsewhere?

Individuals who have had lip augmentation performed at another clinic must undergo a comprehensive consultation before further treatment. In cases where an individual seeks changes to the current appearance of their lips, a dissolving treatment may be recommended before proceeding with lip augmentation. Where a previously placed product is present, adding more product may further accentuate the existing imbalance or distortion rather than address the underlying concern.

For individuals seeking treatment with the Kiss Me Lip Augmentation Technique, any previously placed product must be dissolved before retreatment. This allows for a more precise assessment of the natural lip structure and supports the safe and appropriate achievement of the desired aesthetic outcome.

What is meant by a non-surgical lip lift in relation to lip augmentation?

A non-surgical lip lift refers to an approach where product placement within the inner upper lip may influence lip position at rest. Suitability is assessed on an individual basis and depends on anatomy, muscle movement and tissue response.

Can lip augmentation be considered for a gummy smile presentation?

In some individuals, lip anatomy, which includes muscle movement, can contribute to increased gum visibility when smiling. Lip augmentation may be discussed as part of a broader treatment assessment, where appropriate. Additional treatment options may be considered following evaluation.

Are there risks or side effects associated with lip augmentation?

All cosmetic treatments, including lip augmentation, involve potential risks and side effects. These are discussed during consultation with your cosmetic nurse and your prescribing doctor. Bella Plastic Surgery maintains protocols for monitoring risk reduction and management of adverse events.