Do the Lips Get Thinner with Age?

As we get older, our faces tend to thin out. The facial bone structure becomes more apparent, and any lines and wrinkles become more pronounced.

In addition, our lips gradually become thinner with time. This is the result of multiple factors associated with aging. Thankfully our cosmetic surgeons and skin care experts in Philadelphia, PA can help.

The team at Jefferson Plastic Surgery explain why the lips become thinner with age. We then offer some treatment suggestions that can enhance your lips and give them a fuller, younger appearance.

Loss of Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid

Collagen and hyaluronic acid naturally occur in the skin and add to the roundness and plumpness of various features, including the lips. By the late 20s through your 30s, production of both collagen and hyaluronic acid begins to slow down. This causes the face to lose its baby fat, and will also result in the lips becoming thinner with time.

The Role of Genetics in Lip Appearance

Your genes will determine the initial appearance of your lips, and also when collagen and hyaluronic acid production will slow down.

If you have thin lips, you might notice your lips getting thinner sooner. People with full lips may notice a more gradual loss of fullness as collagen and hyaluronic acid production diminishes.

How Your Teeth Affect Lip Appearance

You may not realize it, but your teeth can play a significant role in the appearance of fullness of your lips. When you’re young, your teeth are generally in good overall condition.

The loss of enamel over time causes the teeth to wear down, and your lips to sink inward as a result. Consider this another reminder of the importance of regular brushing and flossing.

How Lifestyle Choices Impact the Lips

If you smoke, you’re more likely to develop lip lines around your mouth. These smoker’s lines are partially caused by the aging effects of tobacco and nicotine, which is just another reason why you should kick the habit for good.

Even though they’re called “smoker’s lines,” there are other habits that can make these lines develop. These habits include chewing the insides your lips, using a drinking straw, and frequent puckering of your lips.

None of these are as bad for your health and appearance as smoking, but it’s worth considering the behaviors that affect lip appearance.

Options for Lip Enhancement

If you experience thinning of the lips, there are a number of treatment options worth considering.

Many people turn to dermal fillers to help plump up the lips and eliminate the fine lines and wrinkles around the mouth. These fillers tend to contain collagen and hyaluronic acid, which are both essential for looking youthful and more refreshed. Facial implants are also available for the lips, offer a more permanent solution to age-related lip thinning.

During your consultation at our practice, we can discuss surgical and non-surgical treatments with you in much more detail.

Learn More about Lip Enhancement

For more information about improving your appearance and fighting the signs of aging, be sure to contact our cosmetic surgeons and skin care specialists. The Jefferson Plastic Surgery team looks forward to answering your questions and addressing your concerns.