Facial fillers in lip reconstruction

Abstract

The lips are a critical aesthetic landmark of the lower face, and defects in this area have significant implications for functional and cosmetic symmetry. Facial fillers are commonly viewed as an adjunctive technique to surgical lip reconstruction but can also be used as a standalone, temporary management option for oral incompetence and contour defects. Facial fillers make use of a patient's existing perioral soft tissue framework while achieving immediate results that avoid the recovery time associated with surgery. We describe the different types of FDA-approved facial fillers, indications for use, injection techniques, local anesthetic approaches, and complication management.