How many times have you seen a commercial with someone applying some lipstick, only to sigh and wish you had nicely shaped lips just like that? The problem is that for your lips to look this full, you probably need a lip filler – something you are not yet ready to commit to. You want the perfect lips, but you do not want to inject any fillers.
Luckily, now you can opt for a lip flip. But what is a lip flip, and what makes it different from a lip filler? What are the advantages and drawbacks, and what can you expect from such a procedure?
Table of Contents
What is a Lip Flip?
A lip flip is a quick, nonsurgical treatment that uses tiny amounts of Botox to relax specific points in the upper lip muscle. When those muscles relax, the upper lip gently rolls—or “flips”—slightly outward. The effect: a subtly fuller-looking upper lip and less of a “gummy smile,” without adding volume.
Who should get a lip flip
If your top lip disappears or tucks under when you smile, or if your teeth or gums show more than you’d like, a lip flip might be right for you.
Lip Flips vs. Lip Fillers
| Goal | Lip Flip (Botox®) | Lip Filler (HA filler) |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Relaxes muscle so the lip shows more | Adds actual volume/shape |
| Look & feel | Very subtle, natural “lift” | Noticeably plumper, sculptable |
| Onset | 2–7 days to see effect | Immediate (with mild swelling) |
| Longevity | ~2-4 months | ~6–12+ months (varies by filler) |
| Reversible? | Wears off naturally | HA filler can be dissolved |
| Great for | Gummy smile, lip tuck, test-run before filler | Volume, shape definition, asymmetry correction |
What to Expect During Your Lip Flip Appointment
Consult & smile assessment – We check lip movement, tooth show, and goals.
Targeted injections – Micro-droplets placed along the upper lip border and corners.
Back to life – No downtime; appointment is usually ~20 minutes.
How many units? Most lip flips use a low dose (often ~4–10 units total), customized to your smile and speech patterns.
Does a Lip Flip Hurt?
No, most people describe a few quick pinches that are very tolerable. We can apply a numbing option if you’re sensitive, but most patients don’t need it.
When Will I See Results?
The results of a lip flip will become visible within a week of getting the Botox injection. Don’t panic if it doesn’t show in the first two to three days, because it takes time for the upper lip muscles to relax.
How Long Does a Lip Flip Last?
The effect of a lip flip can last between two and four months. It depends on how fast your immune system metabolizes the Botox. Once the effect is gone, you can schedule another appointment for a lip flip. Our professionals can help you whenever your lips need a “refill” or “reflip” in this case!
Lip Flip Side Effects
After a lip flip, you may also have a small bump or potential bruising at the site of the injection. Again, do not worry about it, as this is a normal reaction to any injection. The area will need time to adjust to BOTOX® Cosmetic, so it may feel slightly tender.
Aftercare Instructions
Do: stay upright for 4 hours; be gentle with the area; hydrate.
Don’t (for 24 hours): heavy workouts, face-down sleeping, saunas/hot yoga, massaging the lip border, or drinking through a straw.
Benefits of Getting a Lip Flip
Compared to other lip enhancement treatments, lip flips come with a few advantages. Here are the most notable perks:
- Affordable: The lip flip cost is more affordable compared to lip fillers. This is beneficial if you need more treatments and are on a budget.
- Less Painful: Dermal fillers are slightly more painful than BOTOX® Cosmetic because your lips need to adjust around the foreign filler, which is more invasive. For this reason, a lip flip may be a good option for you if you have a low pain threshold.
- Less Bruising: Likewise, lip flips end up with less swelling and bruising than lip fillers because BOTOX® Cosmetic only relaxes your muscles and does not fill the skin underneath. As a result, your natural healing system will not be triggered as much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a lip flip safer than filler?
Different procedures, different risks.
Lip flip (Botox®/neuromodulator): No product is added to the lip—muscle relaxation only. Typical downsides are temporary: mild bruising, a “tight” feeling, and brief difficulty using a straw. It naturally wears off.
Filler (HA): Adds volume and shape. Typical downsides: swelling 24–72 hrs, bruising, tenderness, and lumps/unevenness (often massageable). If you truly don’t like the look, HA fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase.
Who should pick what?
Want subtle definition or less gummy smile with minimal commitment → lip flip.
Want visible volume/shape or to correct asymmetry → filler (optionally plus a small flip for definition).
Can I get a bottom lip flip?
Usually no. The lower lip is crucial for containing liquids and speech; relaxing it can feel functionally awkward.
When we might consider it: very select cases with strong lower-lip tuck; we use ultra-low doses and set expectations about straw use/sippiness the first week.
Most patients only need the upper lip to balance smile and tooth show.
If I have thin lips, should I get a flip or filler?
Use this quick guide:
If at rest your lips look thin and you want them fuller → Start with HA filler (small, natural amount).
If your lips look okay at rest but the top lip disappears when you smile → Lip flip.
If you want a camera-ready edge/Cupid’s bow but not “big lips” → Micro-filler for border definition or lip flip + micro-filler.
Nervous about commitment? Try a lip flip first; it fades in 2-3 months.
Can I do a flip before a big event?
Yes! Just make sure to get the lip flip at least 7-10 days before your event.
Verdict: Should You Get a Lip Flip?
Lip flips represent a great alternative if you want to obtain fuller, better-shaped lips without bringing lip fillers into the equation. With a lip flip, your lips will look natural and enhanced. Book a lip flip with Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics right now, and we will bring your lips into their best shape!
For more questions about lip flips, contact Dermacare Laser & Skin Care Clinics at 760-448-8100 (Carlsbad) or 858-487-3376 (San Diego). We will be more than happy to answer all of your questions. You may also use our online contact form to ask questions, and we will get back to you shortly!