You’ve probably seen it all over social media: fuller-looking lips without the overdone appearance that sometimes comes with filler. That’s the appeal of the lip flip, a quick, in-office injectable treatment that enhances your natural lip shape with little to no downtime. Here’s what to know before you book.
A lip flip uses a small amount of a wrinkle relaxer such as Botox® to gently relax the muscles along the upper lip. When those muscles soften, the lip rolls slightly upward, revealing more of your natural lip and creating a fuller, more defined look.
Unlike lip filler, a lip flip doesn’t add volume. Instead, it enhances the shape you already have. The procedure takes just a few minutes in the office, requires no downtime, and results are visible within a week.
A lip flip works well for patients who want subtle enhancement without adding significant volume. You may be a good candidate if you:
A lip flip is not recommended if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a neuromuscular disorder, are allergic to any ingredient in the injectable, or are prone to keloidal scarring. Your aesthetic provider will review your health history at your consultation.
Before your appointment, avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements (such as aspirin or fish oil) for a few days if possible, as these can increase bruising. Let your provider know about any medications you’re taking.
During the procedure, your provider will administer a small number of injections along the upper lip, typically four to six units of a wrinkle relaxer. The treatment takes just a few minutes. A topical numbing cream is available if you’re sensitive to needles, though most patients find the procedure very comfortable.
After your appointment, avoid putting pressure on your lips for the first few days. That means holding off on straws, kissing, and anything that might move the product before it sets. Bruising or mild swelling may occur but typically fades within a few days. Full results appear within about a week and last two to five months.
Both treatments enhance the lips, but they work differently and serve different goals. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Lip Filler | Lip Flip | |
| Substance | Hyaluronic acid or similar filler | Botox, Dysport, etc. |
| Effect | Volume increase for both lips | Shape Enhancement for Upper Lip |
| Results Duration | 12-18 months | 2–5 months |
| Downtime | Minimal | None |
| Best For | Volume, symmetry, fuller lips | Subtle definition, gummy smile, filler-curious |
| Cost | More Cost Effective | Less Cost Effective |
Many patients choose to combine both treatments for a more comprehensive result: filler to add volume and a lip flip to refine the shape of the upper lip. Your provider can help you determine what makes sense for your goals.
No. Results typically last two to five months, similar to other wrinkle relaxer treatments. To maintain the look, you’ll need to return for repeat treatments.
Most patients describe the sensation as a minor pinch. Because only a small number of injections are needed and the procedure is quick, discomfort is brief. A topical numbing cream is available if you’d prefer it.
For the first few days, yes, with caution. Avoid putting pressure on your lips until the wrinkle relaxer has fully settled, typically 24 to 48 hours. After that, normal activities are fine. If the product is placed correctly by an experienced injector, a lip flip won’t interfere with everyday activities like eating, speaking, or kissing.
At Anne Arundel Dermatology, our aesthetic providers are licensed, credentialed medical professionals with extensive experience in injectable treatments. Whether you’re curious about a lip flip, lip filler, or both, we’ll help you understand your options and build a plan that fits your goals. Schedule a consultation at a location near you to get started.