Anybody who desires larger and fuller lips is a good candidate for this operation. Some people are naturally born with thin lips, whereas in others lips may become thinner as they age.

Temporary lip augmentation is done by injecting a variety of substances e.g. collagen, Zyderm, Cymetra, etc. These materials are placed at different locations depending upon the desire of the patient. These substances may last from 3 weeks to 3-6 months. Of course, repeating the procedure is always possible.
Permanent lip augmentation is done by surgically implanting the materials e.g. Alloderm, Goretex, etc. in exact locations. The operation is done as an outpatient procedure under local or intravenous sedation anesthesia. Some swelling and bruising will resolve in 2-3 weeks.

Lipostructure or fat injection is a relatively new procedure with a good track record. Patient's own fat is harvested from tummy or buttock and used for injection. The operation is done on an outpatient basis under intravenous sedation. Since this is the patient's own tissue, allergic reactions are none. Swelling and bruising will last up to 2-3 weeks. This procedure is neither temporary, nor permanent, but intermediary.

Often lip enhancement is undertaken along with forehead/brow lift, facelift, blepharoplasty, etc. to achieve total facial rejuvenation.