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What Is a Lip Flip?

Alex KataevbyAlex Kataev·Sep 24, 2024
In Short

A lip flip is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that uses small Botox injections above the upper lip to relax muscles, causing the lip to curl outward slightly. This botox lip flip creates a subtle fuller lip appearance without adding volume, lasting 3-4 months. The lip flip procedure is a quick and minimally invasive way to enhance the appearance of the lips without fillers.

Lip flip procedure details

  • Injection technique: The lip flip procedure involves 4 injections of 1 unit each of botulinum toxin type A (Botox) administered above the vermillion border of the upper lip, in the white lip area, at 4 evenly spaced points

  • Target muscles: The botox lip flip aims to relax the orbicularis oris muscle, which acts as a sphincter around the mouth

  • Treatment area: In a lip flip procedure, injections are typically made in the area lateral to the ala (side of the nose) where lip elevator muscles converge

Benefits and effects of a lip flip

  • Subtle enhancement: The lip flip creates the illusion of a more pronounced pout without adding volume, ideal for those seeking a natural-looking enhancement

  • Gummy smile reduction: A botox lip flip can help reduce excessive gingival display caused by hyperactive lip elevator muscles

  • Lip shape improvement: The lip flip procedure enhances the cupid's bow shape and can address downturned mouth corners

  • Minimizes vertical lip lines: A lip flip can help reduce the appearance of fine lines around the mouth

Comparison of lip flip to lip fillers

  • Non-invasive: The lip flip procedure is less invasive than lip fillers, involving only small Botox injections rather than gel injections

  • Duration: Effects of a botox lip flip typically last 3-4 months, compared to 6-12 months for lip fillers

  • Cost: A lip flip is generally less expensive than lip fillers, ranging from $400-$600 per treatment

  • Volume vs. shape: The lip flip focuses on enhancing lip shape rather than adding volume like fillers do

Ideal candidates for a lip flip

  • Thin or aging lips: A lip flip is suitable for those with thin lips who want to enhance shape without adding volume

  • Gummy smile: The botox lip flip is effective for individuals with excessive gum show when smiling

  • First-time enhancement: A lip flip procedure is an excellent option for those new to lip treatments and not ready for longer-lasting procedures

Considerations for a lip flip

  • Temporary results: Effects of a lip flip last 2-3 months, requiring regular treatments to maintain the desired look

  • Potential side effects: A botox lip flip may include temporary numbness, minor bruising, or difficulty using straws

  • Practitioner expertise: Choosing a qualified injector for your lip flip procedure is crucial to minimize complications and ensure optimal results

FAQ

What is a lip flip?

A lip flip is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that uses small Botox injections above the upper lip to create the appearance of fuller lips without adding volume. It works by relaxing the muscles around the mouth, causing the upper lip to curl outward slightly.

How is the lip flip procedure performed?

The lip flip procedure involves four injections of 1 unit each of Botox administered above the vermillion border of the upper lip. These injections are made at four evenly spaced points in the white lip area, targeting the orbicularis oris muscle.

How long does a botox lip flip last?

The effects of a botox lip flip typically last 3-4 months. After this period, the treatment will need to be repeated to maintain the desired look.

What are the benefits of a lip flip compared to lip fillers?

A lip flip is less invasive, generally less expensive, and focuses on enhancing lip shape rather than adding volume. It's ideal for those seeking a subtle, natural-looking enhancement or wanting to reduce a gummy smile.

Who is an ideal candidate for a botox lip flip?

Ideal candidates for a lip flip include individuals with thin or aging lips who want to enhance shape without adding volume, those with a gummy smile, and people new to lip treatments who aren't ready for longer-lasting procedures like fillers.