Lip Shaping Solutions

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Whether you're dealing with uneven, drooping, or poorly defined lips, there are an array of surgical and non-surgical procedures available to enhance and rejuvenate the shape of the lips.

Lip Shaping Solutions Overview - 1098

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The Skinny


While lip augmentation and lip reduction procedures exist to solve problems related to lip size, there are a host of cosmetic concerns related to lip shape that require a different set of solutions. Drooping lips, uneven lips, and a lack of lip definition are all tied to lip shape, and each occurs as a result of genetics, aging, or some combination of the two (learn more in our complete guide to Lip Shape Concerns). Fortunately, there are both temporary non-surgical and permanent surgical procedures that can enhance the shape of the lips by addressing the angles, protrusion, symmetry, and teeth exposure of the mouth and lip area.

The Specifics


Who may consider a lip shaping procedure?

Lip reshaping can benefit both those who wish to refine their appearance and those looking to correct the effects of natural aging. Abnormalities of lip shape — like drooping lips, an uneven pout, or undefined vermillion border — can be the result of genetics, environmental factors (think: smoking, UV exposure, and even an affinity for drinking through a straw), and/or aging and can lead to cosmetic concerns and certain medical conditions.

The Anatomy of the Lip lip-anatomy-close-up-photo-of-male

Modifying the angles of the corners of the mouth, the fullness of the upper lip, the proportion of the lower lip, or even the distance between the cupid's bow and base of the nose can have a significant effect. Cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures can be used to alter shape secondary to functional medical concerns.

What can you expect from lip shaping procedures?

With varying levels of permanence and invasiveness, there are numerous ways to achieve your desired lip look. While temporary solutions range from lip liner to lip injections, permanent reshaping is possible with lip surgeries like lip lift procedures and implants.

When should you consider a lip shaping procedure?

The timing of a cosmetic lip procedure is, of course, a personal decision. While the ideal candidate is technically only limited by active infection, current medical pathologies, inability to abstain from smoking around the procedure, or a lack of time to commit to appropriate recovery and downtime, there are other things to consider when planning for treatment.

Some people, for example, may choose to undergo a lip enhancement procedure alone, while others may tie it into a larger facial rejuvenation treatment plan. Consulting with a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist will ensure the appropriate course of action for your concerns and needs.

Why should you consider a lip shaping or defining procedure?

If you are looking to address visible signs of aging relating to the lip area or simply wish to enhance your natural shape, there are a host of surgical and non-surgical options available at varying levels of cost and permanence.

Professional Lip Shaping Procedures

Depending on the invasiveness of the procedure, a board certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist can perform a number of procedures that can reshape the lips temporarily or long term.

Lip Filler & Injectables

Injectable fillers and botulinum toxin type A (BoNT-A) injections are less invasive (and, often, less permanent) ways to improve lip volume and evenness and raise the corners of the mouth without surgery.

Lip Implants

There are various materials that can be used to permanently alter the shape of existing lip tissue by inserting a mold that will enhance the volume of the lips.

Lip Lift

A lip lift is a surgical procedure that provides permanent results. While it is the most invasive solution of the bunch with a slightly longer recovery time, various upper lip lift techniques, lower lip lift procedures, and corner lip lift treatments that can create more fuller lips that are more even and defined without additional maintenance.

Micropigmentation

Also known as semi-permanent makeup or cosmetic lip tattoos, the treatment involves using pigment to enhance the shape and/or color of the lip.

At-Home Lip Shaping Solutions

In addition to invasive and non-invasive professional lip shaping procedures, immediate results can be enjoyed at home with good old fashioned lip liner. A combination of lip liner with lipstick or lip gloss can create the illusion of fuller, more defined lips — without a trip to the dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon's office.

The Takeaway


Whether you are looking for a temporary solution or a permanent fix, there are an array of invasive and non-invasive procedures available to enhance lip shape by evening out the pout, defining the lips, or correcting drooping.

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  1. A Bayat Skin Scarring pubmed.gov; 2003-01-11
  2. Ambler, JL. “Introduction to Ancient Roman Art.” Khan Academy.
  3. American Academy of Dermatology Many Ways to Firm Sagging Skin
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AEDIT

‘Try on’ aesthetic procedures and instantly visualize possible results with AEDIT and our patented 3D aesthetic simulator.

App QR Code