
Lip augmentation treatments, and how they work
Lip augmentation is a route to smooth and larger looking lips. It’s great for people who want to plump up thin or uneven lips or those who want to reverse the natural signs of ageing around their mouth.
But is lip augmentation right for you?
In this article:
Fast facts
Best results
One treatment
Duration of results
Six to 18 months for lip fillers
Back to work
Immediately with lip fillers
Full recovery time
One week
Price range
From 1,200 SAR
Treatment duration
30 to 40 minutes with fillers
Comfort
Minimal discomfort
Treatment type
Minimally invasive
What is lip augmentation?
Lip augmentation is any procedure that enhances the shape and appearance of the lips by adding volume – also known as lip enhancement or lip fillers. It most commonly involves injections of dermal fillers but may also include lip implants and fat injections.

How does lip augmentation work?
In lip augmentation, dermal filler, an implant, or fat is added to the lips to make them smoother and plumper.
The science behind it
Dermal fillers are most commonly used for lip augmentation. A gel form of hyaluronic acid, which is naturally present in the body, is injected to plump up the lips. With implants, soft silicone is inserted, and fat injections require fat harvesting from another part of the body.
Before the treatment
- Consider carefully if lip augmentation is for you.
- Find photos of people with lips you like.
- Seek a qualified clinician with good credentials here.
During the treatment
With each type of treatment, either an anaesthetic cream or local anaesthetic will be administered.
Lip augmentation with injectable lip fillers is usually complete within 30 to 40 minutes.
Lip implants require incisions, usually at the corners of the mouth. The implant is then fed into a cavity in the lip.
For fat transfer, fat is removed via liposuction, usually from the tummy or bottom, then injected into the lips.
Aftercare
Slight swelling, bruising and tenderness are normal for a few days after lip fillers.
Avoid extreme temperatures, strenuous activity and applying pressure to your lips (for example, putting on lipstick) for 24 to 48 hours.
Lip implant recovery may take a couple of weeks.
Recovery time from a fat transfer depends on how extensive the liposuction was.
Is lip augmentation permanent? Plus, other things you need to know
Is lip augmentation permanent?
Lip fillers usually need to be repeated every six to 18 months to maintain results but how long they last can vary for different people.
Fat transfer to lips may last several years, while lip implants are even more permanent.
How much does lip augmentation cost?
Prices for lip augmentation start at around SR1,200 for one syringe of lip filler. Prices vary from clinic to clinic and some people may choose to have half a syringe, whereas other people may want more. Your clinician will usually advise you to start small with how much lip filler you have and to build up gradually if you want more.
Fat transfers to the lips, however, can cost anywhere from SR11,233 to SR22,463 depending on the clinic you choose and the desired results. Lip implants also vary in price, typically costing between SR7,500 to SR15,000.
How can I find lip augmentation near me?
See selfologi’s clinic locator for local listings.
Alternative treatments
There are other treatments to consider if you don’t feel lip augmentation is right for you:
- Botox lip flip – relaxes the upper lip to create a fuller pout and ensures the top lip stays visible when you smile.
- Lip threading – a cosmetic thread is inserted into the lip. It generally enhances definition rather than plumping.
Lip augmentation facts
- Lips become thinner with age because the amount of collagen we produce, which gives our skin better structure, decreases. Exposure to sunlight also has an impact. This can change the way lipstick looks and can often make us want more defined lips.
- The skin on the lips is thinner than on the rest of our bodies. This gives lips a darker colour because blood is visible through them.
- Hyaluronic acid – commonly used for lip fillers – is the most common non-surgical cosmetic procedure in the world after Botox.
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