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What are Russian Lips?
If you have looked into lip filler treatment, or are an Instagram fan, you will almost certainly have seen photos of “The Russian Lip”. This all sounds terribly exotic and seems to be offering something completely unique, but what is the Russian lip exactly?
The Russian Lip derives its name from Russian dolls, who tend to have flatter, higher lips, with a pronounced cupids bow.
Interestingly, all lip filler treatments are aimed at adding volume, height, and definition, particularly around the cupids bow, so it could be said that giving this result a different name is merely reinventing the wheel.
What is different about the Russian lip to any other lip?
There is nothing particularly new or innovative about the Russian lip technique actually. All the term means in reality is the way the filler is placed. There are two mostly commonly used techniques to place lip filler. One is injecting using horizontal lines of product (linear threads), the other is by injecting in a downward motion (vertical threads).
Russian lip technique describes using the vertical method. Another name for this type of technique is tenting or fencing.
Are vertical injections better than horizontal injections in the lips?
There isn’t a black and white answer to this, as there are pros and cons for any method of filler delivery, but there are some basic safety and aesthetic consideration.
Safety first
The most important factor in any procedure is safety. As with any injection, there is a small chance of placing filler into blood vessels which could reduce or block essential circulation to the lips. In order to reduce the chances of this happening, the injector must have a good grasp on facial anatomy, and also the skills and qualifications to reverse the filler if needed. Any injection technique, whether its vertical or horizontal can carry this risk.
Aesthetic results
Vertical injections that are used in the Russian technique aim to add height to the lip rather than forward projection. This is really attractive for a younger person, or someone who naturally has more lip tissue. This technique is likely to look unnatural on older or very thin lips.
That said, most lip treatments will employ a combination of techniques in order to get the best results. The key is to assess each client and make a treatment plan that is best suited to them and their particular anatomy.
As with so much in aesthetics, there is never a “one size fits all” approach.
What is important to consider is the type of look you are hoping at achieve. There are modified versions of the Russian lip that may look better on some people.
It is always wise to visit an professional injector who is very experienced with lip fillers. They should be able to tell you if this technique would be appropriate for you.
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