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Permanent Lip Contouring in Izmir

Izmir Permanent Lip Contouring

Lips, which are at the center of facial aesthetics, are considered a symbol of youth and vitality in aesthetic perception, in addition to their functional roles such as speech, eating, and expression of facial expressions. However, due to the effects of time, environmental factors, genetic structure, or past viral infections (herpes, etc.), the lip line may become blurred, pigment loss may occur, and asymmetries may develop. The fact that traditional makeup methods require constant refreshing in the fast pace of daily life has brought “Permanent Makeup” or, more accurately, “Micropigmentation” applications to the forefront in modern medical aesthetics. As Izmir Private Demiderm Polyclinic, we approach lip aesthetics not only as coloring but also as an anatomical restoration process. In this comprehensive guide, we will examine all stages of the Permanent Lip Contouring application, from technical details to healing processes, from color theory to safety protocols, in a scientific language.

What is Permanent Lip Contouring?

Permanent lip contouring, also known as lip micropigmentation, is a procedure where natural and biocompatible pigments are implanted just below the epidermis layer of the skin (at the dermal-epidermal junction level) using sterile and disposable micro-needles. This procedure is completely different from classic tattooing in terms of technique, depth, and the dye material used. While tattooing reaches deeper layers of the skin and uses permanent inks containing heavy metals, permanent lip contouring works more superficially and uses organic or inorganic pigments that can be eliminated from the body over time.

The main purpose of the procedure is to redefine the lost lip line (vermilion line), revitalize lip color, eliminate dullness, and balance any asymmetries using visual illusion techniques. Nowadays, instead of older techniques that only draw the outer frame, “Lip Blush” or “Lip Rejuvenation” techniques, which also color the inside of the lip, are preferred.

How is Lip Contouring Performed?

At Izmir Private Demiderm Polyclinic, the application process is carried out in strict compliance with hygiene and sterilization rules. The procedure is a combination of artistic vision and medical precision. The application is performed with specially designed permanent makeup devices. These devices have precise motors that can adjust the speed and depth of needle entry and exit into the skin with millimeter precision. The expert uses the device like a pen, applying the pigment to the skin in a controlled manner. During the procedure, different techniques such as “scanning,” “dotting,” or “shading” are used to achieve the desired fullness and color transition.

Pigments Used in Permanent Lip Contouring

One of the most important factors determining the success and safety of permanent makeup is the quality of the pigment used. Since the lip tissue is close to the mucosal structure and has high blood flow, pigment selection is critical. The pigments used in our polyclinic have the following characteristics:

Biocompatibility: Formulations that are not rejected by the body and minimize the risk of allergic reactions.
Color Stability: Stable pigments that do not turn red, blue, or gray over time, but only lighten to their own shade.
Particle Size: Micronized particles ensure that the skin accepts the dye homogeneously.
Free from Heavy Metals: Safe ingredients with balanced iron oxide content or completely organic ingredients that do not cause problems in situations such as MRI (MRI scan).

Lip Shaping and Symmetry Correction

Most individuals have naturally asymmetrical lip structure or it becomes asymmetrical with age. Lip contouring is an excellent tool to correct these imbalances. Prior to the procedure, the “Golden Ratio” measurements are taken to precisely define the curves of the upper and lower lips (Cupid’s bow). Low lip edges can be visually lifted, and a very thin upper lip line can be framed 1-2 millimeters further out to appear fuller. However, this “overhang” should remain within anatomical boundaries (white lines) to avoid compromising naturalness.

Who is Suitable for Permanent Lip Contouring?

Permanent lip contouring is suitable for many people who have aesthetic concerns or have lost their lip line due to medical reasons:

Those whose lip color is very pale and who do not want to constantly reapply lipstick.
Those whose lip boundaries have become indistinct and blurred.
Individuals who have visually lost lip volume with age.
Those who have scars or deformities after cleft lip surgery.
Those who have pigment loss in their lips (vitiligo, etc.).
Those who actively participate in sports and are bothered by makeup smudging.

Pre-Procedure Preparation and Important Considerations

The preparation process is critical for a successful application. Especially in the lip area, those who frequently get cold sores (Herpes Simplex)It is recommended that individuals begin antiviral prophylaxis (preventive treatment) under a doctor’s supervision 3 days prior to the procedure. This is because needle trauma can trigger dormant herpes viruses. Additionally, alcohol and blood-thinning medications (with doctor’s approval) should be stopped 24 hours before the procedure. Caffeine consumption should also be limited on the day of the procedure, as it can increase bleeding and sensitivity.

Procedure Time and Stages

The total procedure time varies between 2 and 3 hours, depending on the technique used and the condition of the lip. The process consists of the following steps:

Consultation and Color Selection: The pigment suitable for the person’s skin undertone and preference is determined.
Preliminary Drawing: A symmetrical outline is drawn with a lip liner and approval is obtained.
Anesthesia: Strong topical anesthetic creams are applied and waited for to ensure the comfort of the procedure.
Pigmentation: The process of defining the frame line and coloring the inner part is done.
Finishing and Care: The area is cleaned and a protective cream is applied.

How to Achieve a Natural-Looking Lip Contour?

Previously, “frame-only” applications resulted in an unnatural and harsh expression. Today, with the “Aquarelle Lips” or “Powdering” technique, the lip outline is defined but not sharply, and the color is applied inwards with a gradient (soft transition). This technique provides a natural and fresh look as if it were the lip’s own color. The intensity of the pigment is chosen to be close to the lipstick shades the person uses daily or one shade darker.

Lip Color Tone Determination and Personalized Design

Color selection requires expertise in coloristics (color science). The person’s skin undertone (cool, warm, neutral) is a determining factor. If a cool pigment is applied to a cool undertone, the lips may turn purple. Therefore, it may be necessary to neutralize or warm the colors. At Izmir Private Demiderm Polyclinic, our experts prepare personalized mixtures by calculating the color the pigments will take after curing under the skin.

Permanent Lip Contour Aftercare Recommendations

For the first 24 hours, avoid touching your lips with water and be careful when brushing your teeth.
The thin crusts that form should absolutely not be removed by hand; this will cause discoloration and scarring.
The restorative and moisturizing creams recommended by the specialist (usually containing vitamins A and E) should be applied regularly with a clean cotton swab.
For the first week, avoid very hot and spicy foods, smoking, and movements that stretch the lips.
Sun and tanning beds should be avoided during the healing process as they can change the color of the pigment.

Healing Process and Crusting Phase

The healing process requires patience and is gradual:

1. Day 1: Lips may swell and the color may appear very dark and vibrant.

Days 2-4: A thin layer of crusting begins on the lips. Lips may feel dry.

Days 4-7: The crusts begin to fall off on their own. The color underneath may appear very faded (“ghost healing” period).

Weeks 3-4: The pigment emerges and the true color settles. 40-50% of the initially visible color may fade; this is normal. Permanent Lip Contour Duration

The lifespan of permanent makeup is not “lifelong.” It varies depending on the type of pigment used, the person’s metabolic rate, age, skin type (oily/dry), and sun exposure. Because blood circulation in the lip area is very fast, the duration of permanence is generally between 1.5 and 3 years. The color fades over time.

Situations Requiring Retouching

After the initial procedure, a “touch-up” (control) session is usually necessary within approximately 4-6 weeks. During the healing process, some areas may not retain the color or may have uneven tones due to shedding scabs. The touch-up session addresses these deficiencies, reinforces the color, and extends the life of the procedure.

Pain and Sensitivity: What to Expect?

The lip area is rich in nerve endings, so sensitivity is to be expected. However, thanks to new generation, powerful topical anesthetic creams and gels, discomfort during the procedure is minimized. Most of our clients describe the sensation as a “slight tingling” or “vibration.” It is not recommended to have the procedure during periods of increased body sensitivity, such as menstruation.

Lip Filler and Permanent Contour Combination

For fuller and more defined lips, filler and contouring procedures are a great combination. However, the order and timing are important. If lip volume is insufficient, it is recommended to first perform lip filler treatment to establish the lip shape. Permanent makeup should be applied at least 4 weeks after the filler treatment, once the swelling has completely subsided and the shape has settled. If contouring is done first, the filler applied later may cause asymmetry or distort the pigment line by stretching it.r.

Is Permanent Lip Contouring Safe? Possible Side Effects

It is a safe procedure when performed under sterile conditions and by expert hands. However, as with any intradermal procedure, there are some risks: infection (if hygiene rules are not followed), triggering of herpes, allergic reaction (to the pigment), or granuloma formation. To minimize these risks, İzmir Private Demiderm Polyclinic uses disposable needles, barrier-protected devices, and certified pigments.

The Role of Permanent Contouring in Lip Asymmetry

Asymmetry is the most common problem in lip aesthetics. With permanent contouring, millimeter-precise corrections can be made without the need for surgery. For example, if one side of the upper lip is lower than the other, that area can be filled with pigmentation to achieve visual balance. This creates an optical illusion, creating a symmetrical perception.

Contouring for Age-Related Lip Difficulty

With aging, lip color fades, the “white line” at the lip boundary disappears, and the lips curl inward, appearing thinner. Permanent lip rejuvenation restores the lost color and recreates the lip contour. This procedure is one of the most effective anti-aging touches that makes the face look more vibrant and youthful.

Pigment Fixing Techniques for Dark Lip Tones

In individuals with purple/brown lips due to genetics or smoking (“melanin-intensive lips”), the desired color is not applied directly. First, a “Neutralization” or “Brightening” procedure is performed. The dark background color is broken up with orange or coral-based pigments. After healing, the desired pink/peach tones are applied. This process may require several sessions.

Permanent Lip Contouring to Define the Lip Area

Lip contouring provides an aesthetic contribution not only to the lip itself but also to the surrounding skin (perioral area). A sharp and smooth lip line can indirectly mask the appearance of upper lip wrinkles, known as “barcode lines,” and draw attention to the shape of the lip.

Techniques to Make the Lip Line Look Fuller

It’s possible to add dimension to the lips with 3D shading techniques. By applying darker tones to the edges of the lips and lighter tones to the center (Ombre effect), a play of light is created, giving the lips a fuller, “pouty” appearance.

Devices and Equipment Used in Lip Contouring

Professional micropigmentation devices differ from standard tattoo machines. They are lighter, have less vibration, and have a more superficial stroke depth. Thanks to “cartridge needle systems,” pigment backflow is prevented, and the risk of cross-contamination is eliminated. The device’s digital control panel allows for the use of different speed settings for different areas of the lip (contour, etc., inner filling).

Lip Contouring Prices and Their Effects on Procedure Time

Pricing varies depending on the technique used (contouring only or full lip coloring), the amount of pigment used, the specialist’s experience, and the difficulty of the procedure (e.g., dark lip neutralization requires extra sessions). Due to Ministry of Health regulations, sharing price information on the website is not appropriate. For personalized planning and pricing, you need to contact our clinic.

Things to Know Before Getting Permanent Lip Contouring

This procedure is more than just makeup; it’s an application done under the skin. Therefore, the following points should be known before making a decision:

– It’s difficult to remove the color immediately if you don’t like it (laser or solution is required).

– Patience is required during the healing process.

– The chosen color may appear different on the skin than it did in the bottle once it heals.

– Procedures performed with cheap and low-quality dyes can threaten your health.

Advantages of Permanent Makeup: Longevity and Aesthetics in Lip Contouring

Features	Traditional Makeup (Lipstick/Lipliner)	Permanent Lip Contouring
Longevity	A few hours (Deteriorates with eating and drinking)	1.5 – 3 years (Water and food resistant)
Time Saving	Requires constant refreshing throughout the day	You’re ready from the moment you wake up
Smudging Risk	It stains teeth, glasses, and masks	It doesn’t stain, it’s permanent
Symmetry	Difficult to draw by hand every day	Professionally measured permanent symmetry
Cost	Continuous cosmetic product cost	Long-term use with a one-time investment

The content on this page is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute diagnosis or treatment. Permanent makeup and micropigmentation applications are procedures that affect skin integrity and should be performed by experts under sterile conditions.