A fuller, more defined lip line is coveted by many. While lip injections provide an instant boost, they require maintenance and have risks like migration and lumpiness. An alternative is the Botox lip flip—a non-surgical, subtle enhancement that uses small amounts of Botox to create a light “flip” or roll of the upper lip. When done right, it creates a beautiful pout with no downtime.
How Does a Lip Flip Work?
A lip flip utilizes carefully placed Botox injections to relax the muscles that pull the upper lip up and flip it slightly outward. This causes the vermillion (the pink part of the lip) to roll under, exposing more of it for a fuller look.
Botox stops the targeted muscles from contracting, allowing the lips to flip out naturally. But only a very small amount is used so you still have full mobility. The effect is subtle but makes a visible difference in the lip line.
Benefits of a Botox Lip Flip
There are several advantages to choosing a lip flip over fillers:
- It’s non-invasive. No needles go into the lips themselves. Botox is injected into the surrounding muscles.
- More natural look. You avoid a puffy, overdone look. The flip reveals more of your natural lip, so it appears very soft and smooth.
- Lower cost. Botox units typically cost $10-15 each and you only need 4-6 units total for a lip flip. Filler would require at least 1ml, costing several hundred dollars.
- Less maintenance. Results from a lip flip can last 3-4 months. Fillers need a touch-up every 6 months to a year.
- Less downtime. You may have light swelling for 1-2 days. With fillers, swelling can last a week.
- Reversible. If you don’t like the look, the Botox wears off in a few months. Filler requires dissolving with an antidote injection.
- Fewer risks. Migration or lumpiness are not concerns with Botox. Allergic reaction is very rare.
Who is a Good Candidate for a Lip Flip?
While a lip flip can give beautiful results, there are a few factors that impact how effective it will be:
- Lip shape: Those with a natural Cupid’s bow and defined vermillion border see the most enhancement. A lip flip shows little change on smooth, straight upper lips.
- Lip size: Small or thin lips show more flip, while fuller lips still see a subtle improvement in definition.
- Facial tone: Taut facial skin allows the lip to roll out fully. Those with looser skin may have a less noticeable effect.
- Smile line depth: Deeper etched lines around the mouth can limit how much the lip flips upwards.
The best candidates have an existing Cupid’s bow, firmer skin, and are looking for just a touch of enhancement. A lip flip gives limited improvement for those wanting major plumping or reshaping.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Getting a lip flip is a quick, minimally painful office procedure with few aftercare requirements. Here is how it goes:
- Your injector will mark with pen where the Botox will be injected along the upper lip line.
- Using a very thin needle, the Botox will be injected into the orbicularis oris muscle just above the lip. You may feel a small pinch with each injection.
- Just 4-6 units of Botox divided between several injection points are needed to relax the lip muscles.
- Your injector may have you smile to see the muscle movement and make adjustments.
- Application of ice before and after can minimize any swelling or tenderness.
- The whole procedure takes about 10-15 minutes. Some mild redness or bruising may occur but fades quickly.
- You’ll start to see your new lip line take shape in 2-3 days as the Botox fully kicks in.
What to Expect After the Treatment
Recovery from a lip flip is quick with minimal side effects:
- Light swelling that resolves within a day or two.
- Small bruises at injection sites can be covered with makeup.
- There may be slight numbness around the mouth for a few days.
- Avoid manipulating the lips for the first 24 hours.
- Use a gentle lip balm if dryness occurs.
- Avoid vigorous exercise for the rest of the day.
- Results become most visible after one week.
- You’ll need to wait at least 3 months for the Botox to wear off before getting retouched.
With proper aftercare, you can expect quick healing and enjoy your new lip look.
Lip Flip Before and After Photos
Seeing lip flip results on real patients can help give you an idea of the subtle, yet visible, enhancement it provides. Here are some before and afters:
As you can see, the after photos reveal slightly more visible vermillion along the upper lip line with a gentle roll that catches the light beautifully. The results look incredibly natural – not overdone.
How Long Do Lip Flip Results Last?
One of the benefits of a lip flip over fillers is longevity. Fillers can wear off within 6 months, while Botox provides months of results:
- 3-4 months: Average duration of lip flip enhancement for most patients.
- 2-3 weeks: Time it takes for the Botox to fully settle in and show final results.
- 6-8 weeks: When some fading may start to occur as muscles regain movement.
- 3 months: The minimum wait time before getting a refresh. Allows the Botox to fully dissipate.
With the lip flip lasting around 3 months, you get beautiful results without constant maintenance appointments required with fillers. Just schedule occasional touch-ups.
How Much Does a Botox Lip Flip Cost?
Due to the small amount of product used, a lip flip is very affordable compared to most facial rejuvenation treatments. The average cost is:
- $175 – $300 per treatment: Typical price range for a lip flip. Depends on location and provider.
- $10 – $15 per unit: Price per unit of Botox. A lip flip requires 4-6 units total.
- $54 annual cost: Based on getting a lip flip 4 times per year. Assumes 4 units at $15 per unit.
- 3-4 months: How long each lip flip treatment lasts.
With individual Botox units costing less than dermal filler by volume, you can achieve a beautiful lip enhancement for a fraction of the cost and upkeep.
Are There Any Side Effects or Risks?
The risks associated with Botox lip flips are low, especially when performed by an experienced provider. Possible side effects include:
- Mild pain, swelling, numbness or bruising for a few days after. Avoiding blood-thinning medications beforehand can minimize.
- Temporary asymmetry if one side flips more than the other. Usually resolves in 1-2 weeks.
- A ‘frozen’ look if too much Botox is used. Be conservative with units for a natural flip.
- Drooling or difficulty drinking from a cup if the lip muscles are weakened too much by the Botox.
- Allergic reaction, but very rare.
Pick an injector who specializes in lip flips and start with a lower number of units to ensure you get beautiful results safely.
FAQs About Lip Flips
Have more questions about lip flips? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
How many units of Botox do you need for a lip flip?
- 4-6 units is the typical amount needed to relax the muscles sufficiently to produce a flip. Start on the lower end to avoid over-flipping the lip.
Do lip flips work on thin lips?
- Yes, but the effect may be more subtle. Those with fuller lips still get definition but have less actual vermillion to reveal.
Do lip flips hurt?
- There is some needle prick discomfort during injection but it dissipates quickly. Nothing sharp goes into the lip itself. Apply ice beforehand to minimize pain.
When do lip flips show results?
- It takes 2-3 days for the Botox to fully kick in. Maximal effect is seen at 1 week. Some minor evening out may occur over the first month.
How do I make a lip flip last longer?
- Excellent aftercare, avoiding rubbing or manipulating the lip area, and staying out of the sun help prolong the effects. Time your refresh at the 3 month mark.
Will a lip flip work if I have gummy smiles or short philtrums?
- Yes, but the amount of enhancement may be less dramatic. If your gums show a lot when smiling, the lip flip cannot physically roll up more lip to compensate.
Considering a Lip Flip? Essence Medspa Provides Expert Botox Treatments in Chicago
If you’re interested in subtly enhancing your pout with a lip flip using Botox, Essence Medspa in Chicago is an ideal provider for several reasons:
- Specialist injectors highly trained and experienced specifically in lip flips and facial aesthetics using Botox.
- Custom approach based on your unique lip shape, muscle structure, and enhancement goals.
- State-of-the-art techniques like micro-injections to precisely target muscles and minimize discomfort.
- Top Botox products like FDA-approved Botox Cosmetic, delivered under optimal storage and handling protocols.
- Soothing atmosphere with relaxing treatment rooms in Chicago’s bustling Streeterville neighborhood.
With their specialized expertise and custom plans, Essence Medspa’s injectors can provide Chicago residents with stunning, natural-looking lip flip enhancement using Botox.
Discover how Essence Medspa can help you achieve your dream lips with a Botox lip flip. Contact their Chicago office today to schedule your consultation.
