In the world of cosmetic procedures, Botox is one of the most well-known and efficient treatments available. Botox has many applications, from anti-aging to treatment for specific medical conditions. Now, Botox can be used to improve the look of your lips by performing a procedure known as “lip flipping.”

What exactly is a Botox lip flip? It’s a procedure in which Botox is injected to lower the upper lip and then roll it slightly upwards. This treatment is ideal if you have a gummy smile, wish to increase the size of the lips or mouth, or desire to give an effect that is less obvious than fillers for lips.

LIP FLIP 101

Lip flips can be done by strategically injecting small amounts of Botox around the corners of the mouth and close to the top lip. The entire procedure will take under 10 minutes when done in skilled hands.

Botox is originated from botulinum, which acts by temporarily disrupting muscles’ nerves to cause them to relax. It is a Botox lip flip that relaxes the orbicularis oris muscle—the circular muscle functions as an elastic band around the mouth.

After the Botox is injected, the area being strained softens and loosens the pink-white border of your mouth. When the red border slowly spreads out, your upper lip will relax. This creates the illusion that your mouth is more prominent and fuller, and it also prevents your upper mouth from “disappearing” when you smile.

Difference Between Lip Flips & Lip Fillers 

Both Botox Lip Flips and Dermal Fillers are safe and non-invasive methods to create larger lips, and they’re not too different in terms and the potential negative side results. Deciding between the two will be primarily based on your needs, budget, and how long you’d like the outcomes to last.

Lip Fillers

• Substance: Dermal fillers of high quality are made of Hyaluronic Acid, a natural substance found in our bodies that draws water.
• Method: Before the treatment, numbing cream is applied to the lips. Hyaluronic lip filler is injected into specific areas. Ice is used to reduce swelling. There isn’t any downtime.
• Side consequences: Side effects may include tenderness, swelling, soreness bleeding, pain that will fade over time.
• Results: Results will be visible within minutes of treatment and can last between 6 and 12 months, depending on the patient’s metabolism.
• Objectives: Patients that decide to opt for dermal fillers are looking for greater volume and a more striking appearance to their mouths. Hyaluronic acid helps keep the lips looking plump and being soft.
• Prices: High-quality dermal filler injections range from $500-$1000, based on the location and service provider. It is also necessary to be able to “top off” the lip filler every few months for long-term maintenance.

Lip Flips

• Substance: Botox, also known as botulinum toxin, relaxes the muscles of the orbicularis oris, also known as the muscles that surround the upper lip.
• Method: The target muscle and the surrounding regions are injected with Botox. The procedure takes no longer than 10 minutes, and there’s no downtime.
• Side effects: Side effects may include temporary swelling and the sensation of numbness.
• The results: Results can take time to be seen and last about 3-4 months.
• Objectives: A Botox lip flip is suitable for patients who prefer a gentle pout on the lip’s top instead of a fuller lip. It’s also a good option for those who wish to make small steps towards longer-lasting fillers for the dermis.
• Price: The average cost of lip flips lip flip is around $100 to $500, as it’s not necessary to purchase a large number of instances of Botox.

Pros & Cons of Lip Flips

A Botox lip flip is an excellent overall procedure, but it is a procedure that requires the expertise of a professional performing it on the correct type of patient. Before you decide to undergo the lip flip, here are some pros and cons to think about.

Pros of Lip Flips

• It is painless. While there is some stinging on the injection site, it will pass quickly. The side effects are also very minimal.
• Fast: The procedure lasts only 10 minutes, and the actual injection is completed in two minutes.
• Natural: A lip flip will let you improve the appearance of your lips without creating a look of too pumped.
• Secure: Botox has been tried and tested with hundreds of patients. Because it’s a non-surgical procedure, flips are considered a low-risk procedure.

Cons of Lip Flips

The Botox lip flip only has one drawback: Overtreating.

Overtreating happens when a non-experienced practitioner injects your mouth with excessive Botox and results in a reduced capacity to move your mouth properly. You may have trouble drinking, eating, or sucking on straws or similar as the effect of Botox fade.

It’s essential to choose an experienced and board-certified professional who has achieved an appropriate level of expertise and knowledge regarding the Botox lip flip.

When would you require a Lip Flip?

Lip flip is not suitable for all. A board-certified plastic surgeon can only suggest this procedure for extremely specific situations, for example:

• If you’re thinking about having your lips fuller, but you’re not ready to commit to fillers for your lips.

Certain people want full lips but do not want the fullness that lip fillers can provide. The lip flip would be a preferred option as it subtlely improves the appearance of the upper lip. Compared to lip fillers, the Botox lip flip is more short-lasting, as they can last for 3 to 4 months, which means you need to determine if you like to have permanent pouty lips.

• If you have ample space between your lips and the bridge of your nose.

The philtrum forms the groove that runs between the nose and upper lip. If it’s long, you may want to search for a Botox lip flip. The ideal philtral distance for ladies is around 11-13 millimeters, and it’s suitable for males having a philtral length between 13-15 millimeters. The act of a lip flip will balance out the distance.

• If you feel that your upper lip isn’t visible when you smile, then think again.

Lip flips are an ideal option if you’re embarrassed about having thin lips or a cheek that’s gummy. By gently extending the upper lip, you’ll have full lips that won’t cause a gummy smile.

Learn More About Lip Enhancement at NuWays MD 

Do you want beautiful lips? Visit our medical spa at NuWays MD.

NuWays MD Anti-Aging & Laser Center is Boca Raton’s most renowned aesthetic services provider. We strive to provide our patients with the highest quality experiences through our board-certified doctors and skilled staff. If you’re interested in cosmetic enhancements to your lips, we can determine which option is the best option for you. Book a consultation for free with us now.