Lip Augmentation (cont.)
How to Prepare:
It's important that you have someone with you who can drive you home from the operation.
If you are a smoker, you may be required to stop smoking for a period before the procedure. You should follow your doctor's instructions carefully on this.
Make sure you wear loose, comfortable clothing. Be especially mindful of the shirt or blouse you choose to wear that day. It should be button down, if possible, so you do not have to pull it over your face.
You should not take aspirin or painkillers like ibuprofen or Motrin before having the procedure.
Before Your Procedure, Establish a Home Recovery Area With the Following:
- Ice
- Comfortable pillows on which you can prop yourself
- Ointment or cream as recommended by your doctor
- Plenty of soft foods, such as jello, pudding, oatmeal and yogurt that do not require chewing
- Telephone within reaching distance of your recovery
area
What Are the Risks and Complications of Lip Augmentation?
As with any surgery, there are risks and complications. You can have allergic reactions to implants as we've described above or allergic reaction to anesthesia.
You can experience bleeding or an implant that hardens, which may require removal. You also risk infection or perhaps even nerve damage in some cases. It's very important that you discuss any concerns with your doctor prior to surgery and that you make your doctor aware of any existing medical conditions which may cause further complications.
After the Procedure, Call Your Doctor Immediately If:
- You experience extreme swelling
- You develop a fever
Does Insurance Cover Lip Augmentation?
Insurance may cover lip augmentation if the procedure is being completed for reconstructive purposes, such as a congenital defect or as reconstruction after an injury or accident. However, if you are undergoing this procedure purely for cosmetic purposes, you're most likely on your own to pay the bill. Make sure you understand all of your doctor's charges, including anesthesia, follow up care, etc. Obtain an estimate of the charges beforehand and work out a payment plan if necessary.
It's also very important that you realize elective cosmetic surgery may impact your current insurance. Your carrier can increase your premiums and it can affect future coverage. Ask your insurance carrier about its policy on elective, cosmetic surgery so you're not surprised in the future.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Dermatology
Edited by Charlotte E. Grayson , MD, Sept. 2003.
Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2003
Last Editorial Review: 1/31/2005 6:50:10 AM
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