Technical Explanation of the Procedure
Lip augmentation in Sydney is a cosmetic treatment designed to enhance the shape, definition, and proportion of the lips. Some patients seek subtle volume restoration. Others want clearer lip border definition, improved symmetry, or age-related rejuvenation. Because lip anatomy varies significantly between individuals, lip augmentation requires careful assessment and conservative planning. Where lower-face proportions contribute to the appearance of the lips, Dr Tim may discuss balancing procedures such as facial implants or chin augmentation to support facial harmony.
A/Prof. Tim Papadopoulos offers lip augmentation options based on your anatomy, aesthetic preferences, and overall facial balance. During a consultation, Dr. Tim discusses suitability, technique options, risks, downtime, and realistic expectations as part of informed consent. Importantly, results vary between individuals. Dr Tim may also discuss complementary facial treatments, such as facial fat injections, where volume restoration is needed beyond the lips.
Lip Augmentation Options
Lip augmentation can be performed using non-surgical injectables or surgical techniques. The best option depends on your goals and how long you want the effect to last.
1) Dermal filler lip augmentation
The most common form of lip augmentation uses injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers. HA is a naturally occurring substance found in the body. When injected into specific lip compartments, filler can improve:
-
lip volume (upper and/or lower lip)
-
lip border definition (vermillion border)
-
cupid’s bow shape
-
symmetry
-
fine perioral lines (selected patients)
Because HA fillers are temporary, they can suit patients who prefer a non-surgical option or who want to start conservatively.
Since skin quality strongly influences how the lips and perioral region appear, Dr Tim may recommend supporting treatments such as skin needling or skin laser treatments for selected patients.
2) Fat grafting to the lips (fat transfer)
For selected patients, fat grafting (fat transfer) can provide longer-term volumisation. Dr Tim harvests fat from another area of the body using liposuction, processes it, and then injects it into the lips in small controlled amounts.
Fat transfer lip augmentation may suit patients who:
-
prefer to avoid fillers
-
want subtle volumisation using their own tissue
-
accept that fat survival varies between individuals
3) Surgical lip enhancement
In some cases, patients may benefit more from structural lip enhancement rather than volume injection alone. Options may include:
-
upper lip lift surgery (to shorten the philtrum and increase visible upper lip height)
-
other surgical techniques may be recommended based on the individual’s anatomy and aesthetic goals. In patients with fullness below the cheekbones or jawline, contouring procedures such as buccal fat pad removal or facial liposuction may be discussed separately to refine the lower face.
Dr Tim will advise which option is most appropriate during the consultation.
Tailored Planning and Natural Proportion
The goal of lip augmentation is to improve lip proportion while maintaining harmony with the rest of the face. For this reason, Dr Tim considers:
-
facial profile and midface proportions
-
dental show
-
lip length and philtrum length
-
age-related tissue changes
-
natural asymmetry
Suitability for lip augmentation in Sydney is confirmed during consultation.
Disclaimer:
All surgical procedures carry inherent risks. The information provided here is general in nature and should not be used as a substitute for an in-person consultation with a qualified specialist. Individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, healing, and adherence to post-operative care. A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos will discuss the potential risks, benefits, and realistic expectations during your consultation.
Safety, training and professional standards
A/Prof Tim Papadopoulos is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (FRACS) and is registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). He is also a member and Past President of the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).
Patients can also consult the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) for information on surgical training and standards.