Lip Enhancements & Injections – What Type of Lips Do You Want?

The lips are one of the most defining features of the face, and patients across the world are always looking for ways to achieve the perfect pout. Some patients have naturally thin or asymmetrical lips, while others may experience reduced lip volume due to natural aging and decreased collagen levels. In the past, invasive cosmetic surgery was the only option to increase the volume and definition of the lips. Thanks to advancements in cosmetic dermatology, patients can turn to non-invasive lip fillers and Botox injections for lip rejuvenation. Dr. Michele Green in NYC is an expert injector with over two and a half decades of experience using lip fillers and Botox to help her patients achieve plump, beautiful, kissable lips.

Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm and Restylane provide immediate volume, contour, and definition to the lips. Belotero, another hyaluronic acid filler, can be injected into fine lines around the lips for total lip enhancement. Botox, a neuromodulator, can “freeze” the muscles pulling the upper lip down, allowing the upper lip to turn outward and create the illusion of a more volumized upper lip. Hyaluronic acid fillers and Botox injections create stunning, long-lasting results with little to no downtime. Patients often combine these lip enhancement procedures to achieve a luscious, plump pout. If you are tired of thin, asymmetrical, undefined lips, Dr. Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green is a world-renowned, board-certified dermatologist with over 25 years of experience treating her patients with the most innovative, effective, non-invasive cosmetic procedures for lip enhancement, including dermal fillers and Botox. She is consistently rated as one of NYC’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times due to her dedication and accessibility to her patients. As an expert injector, Dr. Green approaches lip augmentation with a “less-is-more” philosophy to create a natural, youthful appearance. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private Upper East Side office, she will assess your facial anatomy and aesthetic goals to develop a lip enhancement plan that will leave you with a beautiful pout that lasts.

What is lip enhancement?

Lip enhancement procedures have become some of the most popular cosmetic treatments in the world thanks to influencers and celebrities’ normalization of lip fillers. Lip enhancement is the generalized term for any in-office procedure that improves aspects of the lip. Lip enhancement procedures commonly increase volume in the lips, though they can also provide definition and enhance lip shape and structure. Before the advent of lip injections, patients would turn to plastic surgery procedures such as lip implants and fat transfers. These procedures offered permanent results but were also associated with long recovery times, adverse side effects, and surgical scars. Luckily, advancements in cosmetic dermatology were made to develop non-invasive lip enhancement procedures such as dermal fillers and Botox. These procedures create beautiful, natural-looking results with little to no downtime. While results from these procedures are temporary, they are long-lasting and allow patients to tailor each treatment session to their evolving aesthetic goals and needs.

What types of lip injections are there?

Two types of non-invasive lip injections are used for lip enhancement: dermal fillers and Botox. Dermal fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero work to create plumper, more defined, fuller lips. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body that attracts water to the skin. One of the main benefits of hyaluronic acid is that it can hold up to 1000x its weight in water. When injected into the upper and lower lips, hyaluronic acid fillers can pull moisture into the lips to provide immediate plumpness and suppleness. Additionally, fillers can be injected into the vertical lines around the mouth to provide complete lip rejuvenation.

Botox can be injected into the lips for lip augmentation. Botox is a neuromodulator that inhibits nerve signaling to targeted muscles in the injected area. When injected into specific areas of the lip, Botox can help to upturn the upper lip for an appearance of increased volume in the upper lip. Botox can also be used to decrease the appearance of a gummy smile. Dermal fillers and Botox are often combined to provide patients with the perfect pout. When you consult with expert injector Dr. Green in New York City, she will tailor a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your desired results.

What are the types of lip augmentation procedures available in Dr. Green’s NYC dermatology office?

Juvederm collection of hyaluronic acid fillers

Juvederm Ultra XC is one of the best Juvederm products for achieving a luscious, full pout. This filler is excellent for patients with thin lips who are looking to increase volume and definition in the lip. It can also be injected into marionette lines, smile lines, and nasolabial folds to rejuvenate the area around the lips. Juvederm Ultra XC contains a highly cross-linked form of hyaluronic acid, allowing the filler to last for nine to twelve months.

Juvederm Volbella XC is another excellent Juvederm product for the lips. It is best for patients looking for a softer and more subtle enhancement of the lips and perioral lines (lines around the mouth). This filler can last up to twelve months before another treatment session is needed.

Restylane family of hyaluronic acid fillers

Restylane Kysse is a unique hyaluronic acid filler developed with proprietary XpresHAn Technology to create a natural-looking volume and definition for the lips. When injected, it pulls moisture from the environment to the lips to increase hydration and create the “Russian doll” effect. This filler can also improve lip color and texture and lasts up to one year.

Restylane Silk is a hyaluronic acid filler specifically designed to augment the lips. Its unique, small particle size subtly enhances the shape of the lips and softens lines around them. Restylane Silk is popular for patients looking for a natural improvement in lip fullness. Results are visible immediately following injection and can last for six to nine months.

Restylane is the original Restylane filler designed to increase volume and smooth fine lines and wrinkles. Restylane can be injected into the lips to provide facial symmetry, define the appearance of Cupid’s bow, and restore lost volume. This filler can also be used to treat laugh lines, marionette lines, undereye hollows, and facial wrinkles at the corners of the mouth. Restylane can last for six to nine months.

Belotero Balance hyaluronic acid filler

Belotero Balance is a hyaluronic acid filler best suited to achieve natural enhancement of the lips and lip lines. Belotero is formulated with a proprietary Cohesive Polydensified Matrix, producing a smooth and flexible gel to be used for lip augmentation. This filler is also excellent for treating under-eye hollows, as its thin formulation eliminates the risk of developing the Tyndall effect or the appearance of a bluish hue in the injected area. Belotero typically lasts for six months before another treatment session is needed.

Botox injections for lip rejuvenation

Botox is derived from botulinum toxin, a neurotoxin that inhibits nerve signaling to limit muscle contractions. When Botox is injected into targeted muscles, temporary paralysis occurs, causing the muscles to relax and reduce contractions. The full effect of Botox can take two weeks, after which results can last three to four months. While commonly used to treat forehead lines, crow’s feet (lines around the eyes), and glabellar lines (lines between the eyebrows), Botox can also be used to augment the lips.

A Botox lip flip is a procedure that creates the appearance of a fuller upper lip. During the procedure, Botox is injected into the vermillion border, corners of the mouth, and Cupid’s bow to “freeze” the muscles connected to the upper lip. Once the muscles are relaxed, the upper lip is encouraged to curl outwards and flip, creating the appearance of more volume in the upper lip. A Botox lip flip is an excellent non-surgical alternative to an invasive lip lift. A Botox lip flip is best suited for patients looking to achieve a subtle yet natural enhancement to the upper lip without any added volume.

Botox can also be used to address a gummy smile, which is the appearance of a large amount of gum tissue when smiling. To treat a gummy smile, Botox is injected into the Yonsei Point, the triangular area where three muscles meet between the upper lip and the nose. Botox relaxes the muscles in the Yonsei Point, preventing them from lifting the lips too high and reducing the appearance of a gummy smile.

What surgical procedures are used for lip enhancement?

Lip implants

Lip implants were a once popular surgical procedure for rejuvenating the lips. Lip implants are typically made of silicone or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE). During the procedure, a plastic surgeon makes a tiny incision in the corner of the mouth and tunnels the implants through the lips. Lip implants can be performed under generalized or local anesthesia, though most patients prefer to undergo the procedure with a local anesthetic where they are awake but numb. Lip implants provide a permanent solution to lip augmentation but are accompanied by longer recovery times, scarring, and increased risk of side effects due to the anesthesia used.

Fat injections and fat transfer

Fat grafting, also known as autologous fat injections or fat transfer, is a procedure that involves removing fat from another body area and injecting it into the lips. Fat is typically removed via liposuction from areas such as the abdomen or flanks. The fat is first purified before being transferred to the lips. Fat injections are typically not performed for lip augmentation anymore due to the increased risks and complications associated with the procedure.

Which is better for lip augmentation: non-invasive or surgical procedures?

Non-invasive procedures like hyaluronic acid dermal fillers and Botox have become popular treatment options for lip augmentation and enhancement due to the little to no downtime or side effects associated with their treatment. Surgical procedures like lip implants and fat injections can produce permanent volume and definition to the lips; however, these invasive procedures carry an increased risk of scarring and adverse side effects and are associated with longer recovery times. Additionally, results from lip implants or fat injections are not easily reversible, and adjustment or removal requires an additional surgical procedure and further increased risk of more severe side effects. On the other hand, dermal fillers and Botox are semi-permanent, allowing patients to adjust their treatment during each session to adjust to their evolving aesthetic tastes and goals over time. If necessary, dermal fillers can also be dissolved with hyaluronidase injections, a naturally occurring substance that breaks apart hyaluronic acid molecules. Patients across the globe love these non-invasive procedures due to their consistently stunning yet natural lip enhancement results. During your consultation with Dr. Green, she will devise a lip augmentation treatment plan consisting of dermal fillers and Botox injections to safely and effectively achieve a beautiful, luscious pout that lasts.

Who is a good candidate for non-invasive lip augmentation?

Good candidates for non-invasive lip augmentation are patients 21 years or older with good physical and mental health looking to improve the volume, shape, or definition of their lips. Patients should not be pregnant or breastfeeding, as safety has not yet been researched. Patients should not get lip injections if they have a history of severe allergic reactions, anaphylaxis, or bleeding disorders. Botox injections should not be performed on patients with a history of allergic reactions to other neuromodulators, including Dysport, Xeomin, or Myobloc. Dermal fillers should not be injected in patients with a history of allergic reactions to lidocaine or gram-positive bacteria found in hyaluronic acid fillers.

Are there any side effects to dermal fillers or Botox injections?

Little to no side effects are associated with non-invasive dermal filler or Botox injections. Common side effects include mild swelling, redness, or bruising at or around the injection sites that resolve on their own within two weeks of treatment. Patients can reduce the risk of swelling by applying ice after the procedure and avoiding strenuous exercise, saunas, and hot tubs for 48 hours after treatment. Patients should refrain from blood thinning medications and supplements, including Warfarin, Coumadin, Aleve, Aspirin, vitamin E, and fish oil, for one week after the procedure to reduce the risk of bruising.

Severe side effects, including difficulty smiling, trouble speaking, or muscle weakness, are rare but can occur when an inexperienced injector performs Botox or filler injections. To ensure that your lip augmentation procedures are performed safely and effectively, always consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green in New York City.

Which lip injections last the longest?

Patients in Dr. Green’s office often ask, “What lip injections last the longest?” Different types of lip fillers have various durations. Juvederm Ultra XC, Juvederm Volbella, and Restylane Kysse are some of the longest-lasting fillers, with results lasting up to twelve months. Dr. Green recommends that patients engage in regular touch-up sessions once or twice a year to maintain their perfect plump pout.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about lip enhancement

Which injectable is best for lips?

Dermal fillers and Botox are two non-invasive injectables used to enhance the lips. Dermal fillers are excellent for addressing volume loss, asymmetry, texture, color, and lip lines. Botox is best for creating the appearance of more volume in the upper lip or masking the appearance of a gummy smile. The best injectable for the lips will depend on the patient’s unique anatomy and specific lip concerns. Often, patients engage in a combination of dermal filler and Botox injections, first using Botox to “flip” the upper lip, followed by dermal fillers to increase volume and definition in the lips.

What is the best filler for lips in 2025?

With so many lip fillers available, patients in Dr. Green’s office wonder, “Which type of lip filler is best?” There is no one best lip filler for lip enhancement. Each filler is comprised of different formulations and concentrations of hyaluronic acid to provide definition, symmetry, and volume to the lips. An expert injector like Dr. Green can choose the best lip filler based on your specific facial anatomy and aesthetic desires. Patients looking to achieve a more voluminous, luscious pout are best suited for Juvederm Ultra XC. Patients with naturally thin lips can rely on Juvederm Volbella or Restylane Silk to create a subtle yet natural look. Restylane Kysse is excellent for patients who want to improve lip texture and color. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience using dermal fillers for lip augmentation and will help you decide on the filler best suited to help you achieve your desired cosmetic results.

Which lip filler looks most natural?

Juvederm Volbella and Restylane Silk are two hyaluronic acid dermal fillers that provide natural-looking results when injected. Juvederm Volbella has a soft gel formulation that can subtly enhance lip shape, correct asymmetry, and treat lines around the mouth. Restylane Silk’s small particle size allows for precise lip enhancement and natural, youthful-looking results. Belotero is another excellent dermal filler that provides natural-looking rejuvenation of lip lines due to its flexible yet soft gel matrix.

Which lip filler gives the most volume?

The two best lip fillers for providing more volume are Juvederm Ultra XC and Restylane. These fillers are about to create a full, voluminous pout in just a single treatment session. In addition to providing volume to the lips, these two fillers are an excellent option for treating lines around the mouth for total lip rejuvenation.

Which lip filler is most expensive?

It is hard to say which lip filler is the most expensive. Lip fillers are typically priced per syringe, and patients often need only one syringe for full lip enhancement. Lip fillers should not be chosen based on their cost but on whether the specific lip filler will help achieve the desired results. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will discuss your aesthetic goals and assess your facial anatomy. She will then be able to choose the lip filler best suited to help you achieve your desired pout.

What is kiss lip filler?

Restylane Kysse, sometimes referred to as kiss lip filler, is a new and innovative addition to the Restylane family of hyaluronic acid dermal fillers that was FDA-approved in 2020. This filler was created with XpresHAn Technology to enhance the lips for precise, natural-looking volume enhancement. Restylane Kysse is best suited for patients who want to increase overall hydration, volume, and definition in the lips. This filler can last up to one year.

What is the safest lip filler technique?

Board-certified dermatologists like Dr. Green, who has the knowledge and expertise in facial anatomy to inject lip fillers, perform the safest techniques safely. Common injection sites for lip fillers include the vermillion border (the line where the lips meet the skin), Cupid’s bow, philtrum columns (vertical peaks of the upper lip), oral commissures (corners of the mouth), and perioral lines (lines around the mouth).

What lip fillers do Kardashians use?

Most likely, Kardashians like Kylie Jenner and Khloe Kardashian use a combination of Juvederm, Restylane, and Botox injections to achieve their luscious pouts. Kylie Jenner confirmed in an interview that she’s had Juvederm in the past for natural yet glamorous lip enhancement. Kendall Jenner has also admitted to having lip fillers in the past, likely Juvederm or Restylane, to enhance and define the features of her lips.

What is a more permanent lip filler?

Lip fillers are not permanent but can provide long-lasting results for six to twelve months. The beauty of lip filler semi-permanence is that patients can adjust their desired results with each treatment session to align with their evolving wants and needs. Instead of asking for a permanent lip filler, patients often ask, “What is the longest-lasting lip filler?” Juvederm Ultra XC, Juvederm Volbella, and Restylane Kysse are some of the longest-lasting fillers, often maintaining results for up to 12 months.

What is the healthiest lip filler?

No lip filler is healthier than another. Lip fillers are comprised of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body. Hyaluronic acid fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero are FDA-approved for treating lips and lip lines due to their well-researched and proven safety. As hyaluronic acid fillers work to increase hydration in the lips, they can also improve the appearance of the lips to look more even-colored, textured, and healthy.

How much do lip fillers usually cost?

The cost of lip fillers depends on a variety of factors, including geographic location, type of filler used, and experience of the injector. Lip fillers performed in metropolitan areas are often more costly than those performed in suburban areas. MedSpas often offer cheap lip filler treatments — however, having your lip fillers injected by a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green is essential to ensuring the procedure is both safe and effective. When incorrect technique is used, lip filler treatment can result in severe side effects and complications. Dr. Green is an expert injector, artfully using dermal fillers to help her patients achieve the perfect pout. When you consult with her, she will choose the best dermal filler to help you look and feel like your best self. At this time, her office will be able to provide you with the cost of your lip filler treatment.

Where not to inject lip fillers

Lip fillers are designed for use in the lips and lines around the mouth. Lip fillers should not be used in other areas of the face, including the cheeks, tear troughs (undereye hollows), chin, jawline, or temples, unless FDA-approved for treatment. Lip fillers should only be injected by a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green in order to avoid the risk of side effects or complications. Inexperienced injectors can accidentally inject lip fillers into a blood vessel, resulting in vascular occlusion or tissue death. Dr. Green is a master injector with over 25 years of experience in cosmetic dermatology and will use lip fillers to safely and effectively help you achieve the perfect pout.

How to get started with lip enhancement today

Thanks to celebrities like Kylie Jenner embracing their lip fillers publicly, many patients are turning to non-invasive procedures like lip fillers and Botox injections to augment their lips. Hyaluronic acid lip fillers like Juvederm, Restylane, and Belotero can immediately provide increased volume and definition and smoother color and texture to the lips. Botox injections can be injected into the lips to make the upper lip appear fuller without additional volume and to mask the appearance of a large amount of gum tissue while smiling. Lip fillers and Botox injections are incredibly safe, offering lip rejuvenation with little to no downtime or side effects. Dr. Green is an expert in utilizing lip fillers and Botox for lip enhancement and will work with you to create natural, voluminous, luscious lips that last.

Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Michele Green is an authority in the field of cosmetic dermatology, utilizing the most innovative and effective treatment options for lip rejuvenation, including dermal fillers and Botox. Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times consistently rate her as a top dermatologist in New York City due to her consistent, stunning results. Dr. Green employs a holistic approach to lip rejuvenation, tailoring each patient’s treatment plan to their unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals. To learn more about non-invasive lip enhancement with Dr. Michele Green, contact us online at our NYC-based office or call 212-535-3088.