BOTOX® lip flip has recently become a sought-after treatment in non-surgical lip enhancement, creating a buzz among those looking for a low-cost, effective way to redefine the upper lip and transform a gummy smile.
However, like all aesthetic procedures, it has potential downsides. Incorrect application can cause unexpected side effects, and the results may fade sooner. At Be Well Primary Care, we want to ensure you understand all aspects of the procedure.
Today, we will explain how the lip flip works, and provide you with the necessary information to make an informed decision. Let’s dive into the question, does a lip flip work?
Lip Flip: What Is It & Does It Work?
BOTOX® has been a trusted name in the world of non-surgical aesthetic enhancements for many years. Its applications have grown from reducing fine lines and wrinkles to shaping brows and now, redefining lips.
But, what makes BOTOX® suitable for such a diverse range of treatments? It’s primarily its action mechanism. BOTOX® blocks the signals from nerves to muscles, leading to muscle relaxation. This property has been successfully utilized in numerous medical and cosmetic treatments, and the lip flip is one of its newest applications.
While it’s approved for treating forehead wrinkles, crow’s feet, and frown lines, Botox is also employed for “off-label” treatments, including the lip flip.
In a Botox lip flip procedure, 4-6 units of Botox are injected above the upper lip’s center and corners. The main effect of this treatment is to relax the orbicularis oris muscle linked to the upper lip. As a result, the lip eases and curls outward, giving a more defined and larger appearance.
Unlike lip fillers, a lip flip doesn’t add volume but can amplify the outcomes of your lip filler. To treat a gummy smile, injectors may inject Botox to relax the lip elevator muscles extending from the nose sides to the upper lips. The number of Botox units used depends on the gum visibility when smiling, usually between 2 and 8 units.
How Long Does a Lip Flip Last?
After undergoing a lip flip procedure, individuals are advised to avoid exercise for the remainder of the day and refrain from sleeping face down that night. A small bump at the injection site for a few hours post-treatment is normal, and bruising might occur.
Over the following few days, as the orbicularis oris muscle relaxes, the upper lip begins to lift and “flip”, with full results visible about a week after treatment.
However, a lip flip’s effects only last about 2–3 months. The frequent movement of the upper lip muscle may cause the effects to fade quickly. Moreover, the small dose involved may contribute to this short duration. Therefore, while the procedure can provide effective results, frequent treatments might be necessary to maintain them.
Also, the longevity of the lip flip results can be influenced by lifestyle habits such as smoking, sun exposure, and how well one takes care of their skin. Regular touch-ups, combined with a healthy lifestyle and good skincare regimen, can help maintain the lip flip results for longer.
How Long Does a Lip Flip Take to Work?
A lip flip isn’t an instant transformation like traditional facial Botox treatments. While some patients may start seeing changes within three to four days, the complete lip flip effect typically sets in 10 to 12 days after the injections.
To aid recovery and see optimal results, it’s advisable to apply ice to your lips and avoid exercising for at least 24 hours post-treatment to prevent sweating out the active ingredients. Some individuals may need to wait around two weeks to observe the final product.
Typically, most patients receive four to five units of injectables, with the procedure taking less than two minutes. Compared to traditional lip fillers, lip flips generally result in minimal bruising and swelling in the days following the treatment.
This doesn’t mean the procedure is entirely risk-free. Potential side effects of a lip flip procedure include difficulty speaking or moving the lips, uneven results, and the risk of infection at the injection site. Choosing a trained, experienced practitioner for the procedure is crucial to minimize these risks.
Lip Flip vs. Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers are gel-like substances that cosmetic doctors inject under the skin to restore volume, smooth wrinkles, enhance facial contours, or, in this case, boost lip volume. Hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance in the body, is a common type of dermal filler that can replenish volume and moisture in the skin. It accentuates definition and imparts a fuller appearance when injected directly into the lips.
However, while dermal fillers genuinely augment lip size, a lip flip merely creates an illusion of a more prominent lip without adding volume. Lip flips are less invasive and less expensive than dermal fillers but offer a shorter duration of effect, lasting only about 2-3 months compared to dermal fillers’ 6-18 months.
Also, dermal fillers yield immediate results, whereas a lip flip takes up to a week to manifest noticeable results.
The Bottomline
A lip flip is a cosmetic procedure that involves injecting Botox into the muscle just above the top lip. The Botox works to relax this muscle, causing the lip to flip up and imparting the appearance of a fuller lip.
Unlike dermal fillers that truly enlarge the lips, a lip flip provides an illusion of fuller lips. Results are typically visible within a week of treatment, and while there are possible side effects, they are generally rare.
If you’re considering a lip flip or still contemplating whether it’s the right choice, we at Be Well Primary Care are here to help. Contact us today, and we’ll gladly assist you in your journey toward achieving your desired look.