Lip Augmentation with Hyaluronic Acid
at Metropolitan Clinic Zurich
For naturally full and defined lips
Full, symmetrical, and well-defined lips have always been considered an ideal of beauty. If your lips are naturally thin, have lost volume, or if you desire more contour and freshness, lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid offers a safe and effective option for aesthetic correction. In our practice, we focus on natural results that harmoniously emphasize your individual lip shape – without appearing artificial.
What is lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid?
During lip injection, high-quality, cross-linked hyaluronic acid is specifically injected into certain areas of the lip to build volume, optimize shape, or emphasize the lip contour. Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that binds water, thereby providing more fullness, moisture, and elasticity. The treatment is outpatient, well-tolerated, and the result is immediately visible.
approx. 30–45 minutes
Generally not necessary. If required, local anesthetic cream (e.g., for lip treatment)
Depending on the product, treated area, and individual metabolism, the result usually lasts between 6 and 9 months
None to minimal downtime, possibly slight swelling or bruising for 1–3 days
Immediately visible, optimal result after approx. 5–14 days (after swelling subsides)
**From 600 CHF** The exact price depends on the treated area, the required amount of hyaluronic acid, and the product used
How does the treatment proceed?
Before the treatment, a detailed consultation takes place, during which your wishes, anatomical conditions, and any previous treatments are discussed. If desired, an anesthetic cream can be applied to make the treatment as pain-free as possible. The injection itself usually takes only a few minutes. Immediately afterwards, you will see the preliminary result – minor swelling or redness is normal and usually subsides within 24 to 48 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lip Augmentation with Hyaluronic Acid
The durability of lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid averages about 6 to 9 months. Factors such as product quality, individual metabolism, lifestyle, and sun exposure influence the duration. Regular touch-ups help maintain the result long-term and gently evolve it.
When performed correctly by medically trained personnel, lip augmentation is very safe. Possible side effects include temporary swelling, small bruises, or a slight feeling of tension in the treated area. These usually subside within a few days. We exclusively use tested, CE-certified fillers from renowned manufacturers.
The lip area is particularly sensitive, which is why we apply an anesthetic cream if desired. Most patients find the treatment well-tolerated thanks to fine needles and gentle technique. Many of the hyaluronic acid preparations used also contain a local anesthetic (lidocaine), which makes the treatment more comfortable.
The result is usually immediately visible. However, immediately after the treatment, there may be slight swelling or redness that temporarily obscures the final effect. After about 5-14 days, the final result can be well assessed. During this time, we recommend avoiding intense heat (sauna, solarium), pressure, or vigorous massaging of the lips.
The Lip Flip is a minimally invasive treatment with botulinum toxin, where small amounts are precisely injected into the orbicularis oris muscle around the mouth. This slightly relaxes the upper lip, causing it to subtly roll outwards. It appears visually fuller without adding volume. This method is particularly suitable for thin upper lips, when the lip significantly disappears when smiling, or if you desire a more subtle result than with classic lip augmentation. The effect lasts approximately 2 to 3 months.
From a medical perspective, aesthetic treatments such as lip augmentation with hyaluronic acid are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. While there are no concrete indications of harm to the child from hyaluronic acid, there are insufficient scientific studies on its safety during this particular life phase. Potential risks such as infections or allergic reactions should also be strictly avoided during pregnancy. Therefore, we only perform such treatments after the completion of breastfeeding. Your health and that of your child are our top priority.
Injection with Hyaluronic Acid
Injections with hyaluronic acid fillers are a major part of the experts' daily work.
In this video, Mr. Roessing explains how a treatment proceeds and what you should consider.
Naturally beautiful lips – without overcorrection
Our goal is a natural result that harmoniously enhances your lips and suits your face shape. We deliberately avoid overcorrections or conspicuous volume effects, focusing instead on your individual aesthetics and the harmonious overall appearance.
Hyaluronidase
Correction of unwanted results with Hylase
If you are dissatisfied with the result of a previous hyaluronic acid treatment or if asymmetrical, overcorrected, or unnatural-looking effects have occurred, it is possible to specifically correct the result. In our practice, we offer the so-called Hylase treatment .
Hylase (Hyaluronidase) is a medical enzyme capable of dissolving injected hyaluronic acid in a controlled manner. This allows the treated area to be largely restored to its original state. The effect usually begins within a few hours. Important to know: Hylase acts exclusively on the injected, cross-linked hyaluronic acid – the body's own hyaluronic acid remains unaffected.
This treatment is particularly used when:
- the result of a hyaluronic acid treatment is too pronounced
- asymmetrical or uneven results are present
- nodules, hardenings, or swellings have occurred
- there is a misplacement of the filler
- a reversal is necessary before a new, corrective injection
The application is performed under sterile conditions and is individually adapted to your initial situation. Depending on the type and amount of filler used, a single session may be sufficient. If necessary, the treatment can be repeated until the desired result is achieved.
Our goal is to restore a natural, harmonious appearance to you – safely, precisely, and medically sound.
If you are unsure whether a Hylase treatment is appropriate in your case, we will be happy to provide you with detailed and honest advice in a personal consultation.
Alternatives to Lip Augmentation with Fillers
Lip Flip with Botulinum Toxin
As a gentle alternative or complement to classic hyaluronic acid treatment, we also offer the so-called Lip Flip with botulinum toxin. Here, a small amount of Botox is precisely injected into the edge of the orbicularis oris muscle (the circular muscle around the mouth). This slightly relaxes the muscle, causing the upper lip to subtly roll outwards and appear visually fuller – without adding additional volume.
The Lip Flip is particularly suitable for:
- very thin upper lip
- lips that significantly disappear when smiling
- the desire for a subtle but visible effect
The effect appears after a few days and lasts approximately 2 to 3 months. The Lip Flip can also be combined with hyaluronic acid treatment to achieve an optimal and individualized result.
The Bullhorn Lip Lift
For patients who desire a permanent and structural change to the upper lip, a surgical lip lift, also known as a Bullhorn Lip Lift, can be a suitable option. This method does not aim for more volume through fillers, but rather for a shortened distance between the nose and the upper lip – the so-called philtrum area.
During a Bullhorn Lip Lift, a small strip of skin is removed directly beneath the nose. This slightly lifts the upper lip, resulting in a visibly fuller, better-shaped vermilion border. At the same time, the entire mouth area appears more youthful and open. The name „Bullhorn" is derived from the shape of the skin incision, which resembles a stylized bull's horn.
This method is particularly suitable for individuals with:
- a very long distance between the nose and the vermilion border
- a less visible upper lip despite volume treatment
- a desire for a permanent result without regular touch-ups
The result is permanent; the fine scar is discreetly located in the natural skin fold under the nose and usually heals very inconspicuously with good care.
We would be happy to advise you individually on whether a surgical lip lift is suitable for you, or if hyaluronic acid injection or a Lip Flip would be a better solution.