Demand for lip filler treatments is up year on year, according to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS). In 2023, there was a 29 percent increase in lip procedures compared to the previous year. With increasing uptake, ever-evolving trends and new methods emerging, it is crucial for practitioners to stay ahead of the curve.

In June and running again this month, Kiss & Smile HIT Workshops led by renowned expert Dr Ellen Selkon of Clinic42 took place, promising to equip practitioners with the latest advancements and techniques for treating the lip area. The workshops aimed to remind practitioners of the finer nuances when treating lips, as they have the highest complication rate out of all filler treatments. It is important to always consider the entire face and not treat lips in isolation.

“We spend a lot of time in the workshops doing lip assessments on our patients and talking to them about the surrounding areas to make the entire face look natural and congruent,” explains Dr Selkon.

She also emphasised the change in trends, with subtler, natural-looking lips taking over from the large overdone ‘Kylie Jenner’ look. With this shift, techniques have evolved to focus on creating eversion of the lips, using fine threads and smaller amounts when injecting to keep the shape natural. Dr Selkon uses a GALDERMA LIP ASSESSMENT SCALE tool when working with a new client to help determine the appropriate treatment plan for each client based on their anatomy and desired outcomes.

The Kiss & Smile HIT Workshops placed emphasis on treating the upper lip, as it is the first place to lose volume due to aging. By addressing deficiencies in this area, practitioners can help clients achieve natural, fuller-looking lips. Dr Selkon highlighted the importance of staying up to date with techniques in the field, as new products and techniques are constantly being launched.

“This is such a fast-moving field, with new products and techniques being launched all the time. A few years back there was a technique of treating lips that was in fact very dangerous and created lots of complications that more experienced injectors were constantly trying to correct.”

By attending workshops, like Kiss & Smile, reading journals, and staying current with research, practitioners can ensure they achieve the best outcomes for their clients.