Looking for a subtle way to enhance your lips without dramatic fillers? The lip flip has emerged as a popular minimally-invasive cosmetic procedure that creates the appearance of fuller lips through strategic Botox injections along the upper lip area.
We’ll guide you through everything you need to know about this innovative treatment that typically uses just 4-6 units of neuromodulator to create a gentle outward curl of your upper lip. Unlike traditional lip fillers that add volume, the lip flip works by relaxing exact muscles to prevent your lip from rolling inward – particularly beneficial for those whose top lip seems to disappear when smiling. While the results are subtle, they can make a noticeable difference in your overall lip appearance.
Whether you’re considering your first lip enhancement or exploring alternatives to fillers, we’ll cover the procedure details, expected results, potential side effects, and what to consider before booking your appointment. Let’s jump into the industry of lip flips and discover if this treatment might be right for you.
What Is a Lip Flip Treatment?
A lip flip treatment uses small amounts of neuromodulator injections strategically placed above the upper lip to create a fuller-looking lip appearance without adding volume. This quick, minimally-invasive procedure targets exact muscles to relax them, causing the lip to roll slightly outward.
How the Procedure Works
The lip flip procedure involves injecting 4-6 units of neuromodulator into the orbicularis oris muscle above the upper lip. A medical provider places these injections at exact points near the corners and center of the upper lip border. The neuromodulator relaxes the targeted muscle, preventing it from curling inward when smiling. This relaxation creates a subtle outward “flip” of the lip’s edge, making it appear more prominent.
The treatment takes less than 2 minutes to complete. Results appear gradually over 3-7 days, with full effects visible within 2 weeks. The muscle-relaxing effects last 2-3 months before naturally wearing off.
Lip Flips vs. Dermal Fillers
Lip flips and dermal fillers create fuller lips through different mechanisms. While lip flips relax muscles to create the illusion of fullness, dermal fillers physically add volume using hyaluronic acid gel injections directly into the lip tissue.
Key differences between the treatments:
- Duration: Lip flips last 2-3 months, fillers last 6-18 months
- Results: Lip flips take up to a week to show results, fillers provide immediate volume
- Cost: Lip flips are typically less expensive than fillers
- Invasiveness: Lip flips require fewer injection points than fillers
- Volume: Fillers add actual volume, lip flips create fullness through muscle relaxation
The choice between treatments depends on individual goals, budget and desired outcome duration.
The Treatment Process
A lip flip procedure involves exact steps from preparation through recovery to achieve optimal results. Understanding each phase helps create realistic expectations for the treatment journey.
Before Your Appointment
The preparation phase for a lip flip starts with a consultation at a qualified medical provider’s office. A thorough medical history review identifies potential contraindications like muscle weakness disorders pregnancy or certain medications. The provider examines the natural lip structure muscle movement patterns to create a customized treatment plan.
Key preparation steps include:
- Avoiding blood thinners aspirin ibuprofen for 7 days before treatment
- Stopping alcohol consumption 24 hours prior
- Arriving with clean lips free of makeup
- Taking photos for before/after documentation
- Discussing expectations realistic outcomes with the provider
During the Procedure
The lip flip injection process takes 5-10 minutes. The provider marks precise injection points above the upper lip targeting the orbicularis oris muscle. A fine needle delivers 4-6 units of botulinum toxin in strategic locations.
The procedure includes:
- Cleansing the treatment area with antiseptic
- Applying topical numbing cream if requested
- Administering 2-3 injections per side
- Using ice to minimize discomfort
- Providing immediate post-care instructions
Recovery and Aftercare
Recovery from a lip flip requires minimal downtime with results appearing within 3-7 days. The treatment area may experience mild swelling redness or bruising for 24-48 hours.
- Avoiding touching massaging the treatment area for 24 hours
- Staying upright for 4 hours post-treatment
- Not using lip products for 24 hours
- Postponing strenuous exercise for 24 hours
- Scheduling follow-up appointments at 2 weeks
- Using ice packs to reduce swelling
Benefits and Expected Results
A lip flip treatment offers several advantages for those seeking subtle lip enhancement through minimally invasive means. The procedure creates natural-looking results by relaxing exact muscles around the upper lip.
Natural-Looking Enhancement
The lip flip creates a subtle enhancement by defining the vermillion border of the upper lip. This treatment produces a gentle slope along the lip line, similar to a ski jump aesthetic, without adding volume. The result appears more natural than traditional fillers because it works with existing lip tissue. The procedure accentuates the current lip shape while smoothing vertical lip lines around the mouth.
Treatment for Gummy Smiles
Gummy smile correction requires 2 to 8 units of Botox injected into the lip elevator muscles. The treatment targets the levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscles, which extend from the nose sides to the upper lips. The exact number of units depends on how much gum shows during smiling. Combined with a lip flip, this treatment prevents excessive upper lip elevation when smiling.

Timeline for Results
Results from a lip flip treatment gradually develop over 1 to 2 weeks as the neuromodulator takes effect. Unlike dermal fillers that show immediate results, the lip flip’s enhancement appears progressively. The treatment involves 2 to 5 quick injections around the upper lip border. Most patients experience minimal discomfort, describing the sensation as small pinches or bug bites. Patients resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
Important Considerations
A lip flip requires careful evaluation of individual factors to ensure optimal results. Here’s what to consider before pursuing this treatment.
Ideal Candidates
Lip flips work best for individuals with exact lip characteristics. The ideal candidates include:
- People with thin upper lips that disappear when smiling
- Adults aged 21-65 with good overall health
- Those seeking subtle enhancement without added volume
- Individuals with gummy smiles showing excessive gum tissue
- Patients who want to try a less expensive alternative to fillers
Non-ideal candidates include:
- Pregnant or nursing women
- People with neuromuscular conditions
- Those with active oral infections or cold sores
- Individuals with bleeding disorders
- Anyone allergic to botulinum toxin products
Potential Side Effects
Lip flips come with temporary side effects that typically resolve within 1-2 weeks:
Common side effects include:
- Mild bruising at injection sites
- Temporary numbness
- Slight swelling
- Difficulty with certain mouth movements
Rare but possible complications:
- Asymmetry in lip appearance
- Drooling or difficulty drinking from straws
- Speech changes
- Muscle weakness around the mouth
- Infection at injection sites

Treatment Duration and Maintenance
The timeline for lip flip treatments follows a exact pattern:
Initial Results:
- Visible changes appear within 3-7 days
- Full effects develop by day 10-14
- Results last 2-3 months
- Touch-ups needed every 8-12 weeks
- Consistent treatments maintain desired results
- Effects may last longer with repeated sessions
- Schedule follow-up appointments 2 weeks before results fade
- Results become more predictable with regular maintenance
Cost and Value Analysis
The lip flip procedure offers a cost-effective solution for improving lip appearance compared to traditional dermal fillers. Understanding the financial aspects helps determine if this treatment aligns with individual aesthetic goals and budget constraints.
Average Price Range
Lip flip treatments range from $80 to $500 per session, with an average cost of $250 in most metropolitan areas. The price variation depends on:
Factor | Impact on Cost |
---|---|
Geographic Location | Urban areas: $300-500 Rural areas: $80-200 |
Provider Expertise | Board-certified: $350-500 General practice: $150-300 |
Units Required | 4-6 units: $200-300 8+ units: $400-500 |
Most medical spas offer package deals for multiple sessions, reducing the per-treatment cost by 15-25%. Insurance providers don’t cover lip flips since they’re considered cosmetic procedures.
Long-Term Investment Comparison
A cost analysis between lip flips and traditional fillers reveals important differences:
Treatment Type | Initial Cost | Annual Cost (4 treatments) | Duration |
---|---|---|---|
Lip Flip | $250 | $1,000 | 2-3 months |
Dermal Fillers | $700 | $1,400 | 6-12 months |
Lip flips provide a more budget-friendly entry point into lip enhancement, costing 60% less per session than fillers. While maintenance requires more frequent visits, the lower per-session cost makes it accessible for those testing lip enhancement procedures or preferring subtle results.
Conclusion
The lip flip procedure offers an innovative solution for those seeking subtle lip enhancement without the commitment of dermal fillers. We’ve seen how this quick non-surgical treatment can create natural-looking results at a fraction of the cost of traditional lip augmentation methods.
Whether you’re looking to correct a gummy smile enhance your upper lip or simply achieve a more balanced facial profile the lip flip might be your ideal solution. With minimal downtime and manageable maintenance requirements it’s become increasingly popular among those wanting subtle yet noticeable improvements.
Remember to choose a qualified provider and maintain realistic expectations about the results. By understanding the procedure costs benefits and potential drawbacks you’ll be well-equipped to make an well-informed choice about whether a lip flip is right for you.