Upper Lip Aging: Causes And Treatment

12.01.2020

What causes aging-related changes in the face? This is one question that has been long debated by plastic surgeons. A recent study showing significant loss of volume in the upper lip in adults has helped to settle this debate. The results of the study showed that aging in the perioral area is affected by a combination of volume loss, thinning and soft tissue lengthening. This finding has helped plastic surgeons to use evidence-based approaches to perform facial rejuvenation.

If you or a loved has noticed vertical lines above the upper lip, this could be a sign of premature skin ageing. This condition is referred to as “smoker’s” lines or upper lip wrinkles, and it is a common concern for both men and women. In order to fully understand this condition, let’s take a look at what causes upper lip aging and treatment options that are available.

Causes of Upper Lip Aging

When it comes to anti-aging, lips are often left out in the conversation and this has led many people to believe that nothing much can be done to resolve the issue. As mentioned earlier, loss of volume and lines around the mouth are early signs of aging. Due to natural aging, a number of key changes occur to the lips. Most lips loose their definition and volume over time. Wrinkles and lines are more commonly found in people with increased exposure to the sun and in smokers due to frequent muscular movement.

Upper Lip Wrinkle Treatment

Dermal Fillers

You can reduce and smoothen upper lip wrinkles through dermal fillers. Fine dermal fillers are used in upper lip wrinkles to plump out individual lines, resulting in moderate improvement of the upper lip wrinkles. Another option is to use a sheet of dermal filler beneath the skin to revolumise the entire upper lip area.

For those looking to enhance and define their lips, they can consider using dermal fillers in the vermillion border of their lips. The effect of this makes one look like they are wearing a lip liner as well as softening and smoothening the upper lip lines. It is important to note that dermal fillers are not permanent and they are not as effective as laser treatments. Despite the minimal downtime, swelling and bruising as a result of this treatment, this procedure is very popular.

Anti-wrinkle Injections

Anti-wrinkle injections are applied on the upper lip to help the muscles surrounding the lips to relax. After the muscles relax, the upper lip wrinkles smoothen and soften. This procedure needs to be done by a professional, experienced plastic surgeon only since the anti-wrinkle injection dose used in the upper lip area has to be precise. An excessive amount in dosage can make it hard to spit out water, purse lips, kiss, eat and even talk.

Lip Augmentation

Lip augmentation is an outpatient procedure where patients receive lidocaine injections to alleviate pain sensation. A plastic surgeon makes incisions on each corner of the mouth for implant insertion. After insertion, implants are cut and trimmed to obtain the desired aesthetic results. Before the procedure, Epinephrine is administered to minimize bleeding and bruising. Once the surgery is finalized, the mouth area is cleaned with anti-microbial solutions.