Lip Flip: What You Need to Know

While it might have a funny name, lip flips have become extremely popular. Influencers on TikTok and other social media sites are singing the praises of this in-office cosmetic procedure, promoting its ability to add a full look to the lips without the swollen, artificial look that can result from too much lip filler. Is it the procedure for you? Read on to find out.

So, how does a lip flip make lips fuller without causing the “duck lips” effect that happens all too often with inexperienced injectors? The secret is neuromodulators, like Botox, which contain small quantities of botulinum toxin and “freeze” muscles when injected. During a lip flip, muscles in the upper lip are injected with this toxin, causing the lip to relax and “flip” upwards. This results in a lippier and fuller smile than before. The procedure is done in the office and has no downtime, making it an attractive option for those who want to improve their appearance with minimal fuss.

How Much Tox Do I Need for a Lip Flip?

Botox and other neuromodulators are measured in units. The units will vary according to your needs, but you will receive anywhere from four (4) to six (6) units in a typical treatment.

How Much Does a Lip Flip Cost?

The price tag on any injectable procedure depends on several factors, including the look you want to achieve and your facial/muscle structure.

The cost of a lip flip is significantly lower than filler. Be sure to contact us for an estimated price.

What Results Can I Expect From a Lip Flip?

A lip flip doesn’t add volume to your lips. Instead, the existing shape of your upper lip is enhanced slightly, resulting in a subtle, natural-looking fullness. If you have a gummy smile, where a good amount of your upper gums shows when you grin, the lip flip can help mask some of that. If you want volume in addition to upper-lip fullness, you may consider pairing your lip flip with some lip filler.

As with any neuromodulator-based procedure, the results may take a few days to show up while the neurotoxin relaxes your lip muscles. You can expect to wait up to a week to see full results.

How Long Does a Lip Flip Last?

Like neurotoxin treatment for facial wrinkles, the effects of a lip flip tend to fade anywhere from two to five months after initial treatment. You’ll need to return for a repeat procedure to maintain the look.

Is Getting a Lip Flip Painful?

Since needles are used during a lip flip, you may feel a slight pinch during the procedure, but it shouldn’t be painful. (And it’s far more comfortable than getting filler!) If you are nervous about needles, ask your injector if it’s possible to use a topical numbing cream on the area beforehand. Since only a few tiny injections are needed, the procedure is quick — so even if you dread injections, you won’t have much time to be nervous!

What Are the Risks of a Lip Flip?

The side effects of a lip flip are few. If too much toxin is used, or if it’s not injected in the right places, your upper lip could relax too much, leaving you prone to drooling or making it difficult to pronounce certain words. You can minimize the chance of these side effects by choosing an experienced provider well-versed in injection techniques.

Other possible side effects include bruising, swelling, or discoloration. These will fade in the days following your procedure.

You Should Not Receive a Lip Flip if You:

• Are you allergic to the ingredients in the injection
• Are you pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have any neuromuscular disorders
• Are prone to keloidal scarring

Can I Kiss With a Lip Flip? What About Drinking With a Straw?

When performed correctly, a lip flip shouldn’t interfere with lip-adjacent activities, including kissing or using a straw. However, for the first few days after your treatment, you should avoid putting any pressure on your lips, including smooching and straw use. These activities can cause the migration of the neurotoxin to other spots on your face.

Bottom line: treat your lips gently after your lip flip.

Does a Lip Flip Change How You Speak?

If you use an injector experienced with lip flips, your speech should not be affected. However, improper treatment techniques can cause people to have trouble pronouncing words that start with S or include “B” and “P” sounds. These issues can last about three months. If you’re concerned about this potential side effect, ask your injector.

Is a Lip Flip the Same as a Lip Filler?

Not at all! As mentioned above, a lip flip adds subtle fullness and enhancement to your upper lip, while lip filler increases the volume of both lips. The way each procedure works is different, too. While a lip flip uses Botox or a similar neurotoxin to relax the upper lip and cause it to “flip” up, lip filler uses one of a variety of substances (usually hyaluronic acid). As with a lip flip, the substance is injected, but the filler remains in the lips to provide volume rather than relax the lip muscles. Lip filler also lasts longer than a lip flip — filler retreatments are required only every 12 to 18 months, compared to every three (3) to five (5) months for a lip flip.