A Botox lip flip is a cosmetic procedure that enhances the appearance of the upper lip by “flipping” it using only a few strategically placed units of Botox. The procedure is quick, non-surgical, and offers a subtler alternative to traditional lip fillers.
How does Botox flip someone’s lips?
During a Botox lip flip, a few units of Botox are injected along the upper lip, typically in the cupid’s bow and the corners of the mouth. The injection temporarily relaxes the lip muscles, causing the interior part of the top lip to flip upward, creating the appearance of a fuller upper lip.
The procedure is in-office and takes around 10 to 20 minutes to complete. Lip flips generally aren’t very painful, so it’s unlikely that the doctor will feel the need to numb your lips.
There is little to no recovery time after a Botox lip flip. Your upper lip may feel numb and slightly swollen, but you’ll be able to resume most of your regular activities immediately.
In general, you should avoid doing any of the following in the days after a Botox lip flip:
- Smoking. Smoking shortly after a lip flip procedure can increase the risk of infection.
- Touching your lips too much. Rubbing or massaging your lips can cause the Botox to spread, which can alter the appearance of your lip flip.
- Sleeping on your side or stomach. Try to sleep on your back to avoid pressing your lips against your pillow.
Patients should avoid alcohol and blood thinners like aspirin 3 to 4 days before a lip flip, as they can exacerbate swelling after the procedure.
Is a Botox Lip Flip better than fillers?
Both lip flips and fillers help give the lips a fuller look. However, the two procedures differ.
Lip flips make the upper lip appear fuller by relaxing the muscles and causing the inside of the lip to flip upward and outward. They don’t add any actual volume to the lips. On the other hand, dermal fillers do physically plump out the lips through injections of a substance made from mostly hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid widely used for hydrating and volumizing skin.
A Botox lip flip is an excellent option for people looking to enhance the shape and size of their lips in a subtler way than fillers can offer.
That said, Botox lip flips may not be for everyone.
Optimal candidates for a lip flip procedure are those who:
- Want to achieve the appearance of fuller lips without using dermal fillers
- Have a thin upper lip or feel that their upper lip “disappears” when they smile
- Want their smile to show less of their gums
Lip flips tend to be cheaper than dermal fillers. A typical lip flip can cost anywhere from $80 to $500, while fillers cost around $600 per syringe. However, lip flips wear off more quickly and require more repeat procedures to maintain results.
For those wanting to change the shape or increase the volume of their lips with longer lasting results, dermal fillers or lip implants may be a better option.
Are there side effects?
Lip flips are generally low-risk and carry minimal side effects. Temporary swelling is typical after a lip flip procedure and should subside within a few days. Minor bruising may also occur at the injection site.
If a large dose of Botox is injected, it may cause the lips to relax too much, resulting in:
- Difficulty closing the lips
- Drooling
- Difficult saying certain words
- Trouble drinking
- Drooping on one side of the mouth
These side effects are not permanent and will subside as the Botox wears off.
Botox is botulinum toxin. Getting botulism from Botox is extremely rare but can occur. See your doctor immediately if you encounter any of the following side effects after a Botox lip flip:
- Headache
- Fever
- Chills
- Trouble swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Slurred speech
- Blurred vision
How long does a Botox Lip Flip last?
You should begin to see results within a few days of having a Botox lip flip, with improvements for several days after. The total effect of the lip flip should be visible no more than 14 days after the procedure.
A Botox lip flip typically lasts around 8 to 12 weeks. To maintain your results, you can continue to receive Botox injections after the initial lip flip starts to wear off. To achieve more permanent results, consider opting for a lip lift of dermal lip fillers.
