Are you looking to enhance the look of your lips but feeling overwhelmed by the options? Two popular procedures—lip flips and lip fillers—can give you the fuller lips you desire, but there are a few differences you should consider before determining which treatment is right for you. Whether you’re looking for subtle definition or a more dramatic volume boost, understanding these treatments will guide you towards the right choice for your beauty goals.
A lip flip involves injecting a small amount of Botox into the muscles around the upper lip. This relaxes the muscles, causing the lip to curl slightly outward and appear fuller without actually adding volume. On the other hand, lip fillers use hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers, such as Juvederm or Restylane, to plump up the lips by adding volume directly. Each method offers unique benefits and caters to different aesthetic preferences and needs. By understanding the distinct approaches of lip flips and lip fillers, you can choose the treatment that best aligns with your desired look and lifestyle.
Lip Flip vs Lip Filler
A lip flip uses Botox to alter the shape of your upper lip to reduce the look of a gummy smile. Lip filler uses hyaluronic acid dermal filler to increase the volume of your lips.
What is a Lip Flip?
So what exactly is a lip flip? Let’s break it down. A lip flip uses Botox rather than filler to relax the muscle that controls the movement of the upper lip and reduces the look of a gummy smile. Botox is injected into the cupid’s bow and corner of your mouth to allow the upper lip to “flip” outward creating the appearance of a perfect, plump pout. Some patients pair this treatment with lip filler to achieve a fuller look.
What is Lip Filler?
Lip filler adds volume, enhances lip definition, and increases hydration and smoothness of the lips. We use dermal fillers made of hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance already found in our bodies. Lip filler can treat a deflated upper lip, thin or aging lips, uneven lips, lip lines, and dehydrated lips. Filler is flexible, so your lips will look natural when you smile and talk. Lip filler is not one size fits all, so we use different types of filler based on each patients’ concerns and beauty goals.
Key Differences Between Lip Flips and Lip Filler
Lip Flip
- Botox is injected
- Lasts 2-3 months
- Reduces the look of a gummy smile
Lip Filler
- Dermal filler is injected
- Lasts 6 months to a year
- Adds fullness and volume
Enhancing the Upper Lip vs. Adding Volume
Still deciding which lip treatment is right for you? First, consider your goals. Are you looking to add fullness to your lips? Do you feel like your gums show too much when you smile? Are your lips asymmetrical?
A lip flip will enhance your upper lip and relax the muscles to create a fuller, less gummy smile. Lip fillers will add volume to create a fuller and plumper pout. Once you decide what you’d like to achieve, your experienced provider can recommend a customized treatment plan!
The Procedures and Experiences
Ready for your treatment? Here are the details.
For a lip flip, 4-6 units of Botox are injected into your upper lip and corners of your mouth. There is minimal discomfort during this treatment, just a few small pinches! If you are nervous about the pain, your provider can administer a numbing agent prior to your treatment. The best part about a lip flip? There’s no downtime! Results are typically seen within a week.
For lip filler, hyaluronic acid fillers are injected into your top and/or bottom lip based on your goals and treatment plan. We’ll be honest, there is a bit of pain and discomfort with this treatment so prior to the injections, our providers will numb your lips to make you more comfortable. After your treatment, you might notice some redness and swelling, but this shouldn’t disrupt your regular routine. One of the most-loved things about lip filler is that it delivers instant results!
Average Duration: 3-4 Months vs. 6-12 Months
Wondering how long these lip treatments will last? Lip flips typically last 2-3 months before returning to normal. Lip fillers can last from 6 months to over a year before a touch-up is necessary.
Pros and Cons of Lip Flips
Considering a lip flip but unsure if it’s the right choice for you? This minimally invasive procedure has gained popularity for its ability to subtly enhance the appearance of the upper lip without adding volume. Like any cosmetic treatment, a lip flip comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Before you schedule your treatment, make sure you weigh the pros and cons to determine if this treatment aligns with your beauty goals.
Lip Flip Advantages
- Natural Look: A lip flip provides a subtle enhancement, creating a natural-looking fuller upper lip without adding extra volume.
- Quick Procedure: The treatment is quick, typically taking only 10-20 minutes, making it convenient for those with busy schedules.
- Minimal Downtime: There is minimal to no downtime required, allowing you to return to your daily activities almost immediately.
- Less Expensive: Generally, lip flips are less expensive than lip fillers, making them an accessible option for many people.
- Temporary Effect: The results last about 2-3 months, offering a temporary change that allows you to try out the look without a long-term commitment.
Lip Flip Drawbacks
- Subtle Results: The enhancement is more subtle compared to lip fillers, which may not be suitable for those seeking a more dramatic change.
- Short Duration: Since the effects last only a few months, regular maintenance treatments are required to maintain the look.
- Limited to the Upper Lip: Lip flips primarily affect the upper lip, so they may not be ideal for those looking to enhance both lips.
- Potential Discomfort: Some individuals may experience mild discomfort or difficulty with certain facial movements, such as sipping from a straw, shortly after the procedure.
Pros and Cons of Lip Filler
Lip filler is the go-to solution for to enhance your lips’ shape and fullness. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic transformation, take time to understand the benefits and drawbacks of filler before scheduling your appointment.
Lip Filler Advantages
- Immediate Results: Lip fillers provide instant enhancement, with visible results immediately after the procedure.
- Customizable Volume: The amount of filler can be adjusted to achieve the desired level of fullness.
- Natural-Looking Enhancement: When done by an expert injector, lip filler can enhance the lips while maintaining a natural appearance.
- Long-Lasting Effects: Results can last from 6 to a year, providing a more enduring enhancement compared to temporary options like a lip flip.
- Reversible: If you’re not satisfied with the results, hyaluronic acid-based fillers can be dissolved with hyaluronidase, offering peace of mind and flexibility.
- Minimal Downtime: The procedure typically involves minimal recovery time, allowing most individuals to resume their daily activities shortly after treatment.
- Improves Lip Texture: Fillers can also improve the texture and smoothness of the lips, addressing issues such as fine lines and dryness.
Lip Filler Drawbacks
- Potential for Swelling and Bruising: Common side effects include temporary swelling, bruising, and redness at the injection site.
- Risk of Lumpiness: Incorrect injection technique can result in lumps or uneven texture in the lips.
- Temporary Discomfort: Some people may experience pain or tenderness in the treated area for a few days after the procedure.
- Cost: Lip fillers can be expensive, and maintaining the desired look may require periodic treatments, adding to the overall cost.
- Need for Maintenance: To maintain the enhanced look, touch-up treatments are needed every 6 to a year.
Side Effects and Risks Compared
Like any other treatment we provide, there are risks involved with lip flips and lip filler. While these side effects are uncommon, we still want to give you a heads up before your treatment! Our expert providers always use safe injection methods to give you the natural-looking results you’ve always wanted. Whether you’re leaning towards the subtle lift of a lip flip or the voluminous boost of lip fillers, being aware of the risks will help you prepare for a safe and satisfying outcome.
Lip Flip Side Effects
- Temporary Discomfort: Mild pain or tenderness at the injection sites can occur, usually subsiding within a few days.
- Swelling and Bruising: Minor swelling or bruising around the upper lip is common, typically resolving within a week.
- Difficulty with Certain Movements: Some individuals may experience temporary difficulty in performing activities like sipping through a straw, whistling, or pronouncing certain words due to the relaxation of the muscles around the lip.
- Headache: Some people might experience headaches following the injection of Botox, though this is usually temporary.
- Drooling: Temporary muscle relaxation can cause drooling or difficulty keeping liquids in the mouth shortly after the procedure.
Lip Filler Side Effects
- Swelling and Bruising: After the procedure, it’s common to experience temporary swelling and bruising around the injection sites. This typically resolves within a few days but can persist for up to a week in some cases.
- Tenderness and Discomfort: The lips may feel tender or sore immediately after the injection, which usually subsides within a few days. Over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses can help alleviate discomfort.
- Redness and Irritation: Some individuals may experience temporary redness, itching, or irritation at the injection sites. This is usually mild and resolves on its own within a few days.
- Migration or Shifting: Over time, the filler may migrate or shift from its original placement, leading to changes in the lip shape or appearance. Regular touch-up treatments may be necessary to maintain the desired look.
How to Choose Between a Lip Flip or Filler
Choosing between a lip flip and lip filler depends on several factors, including your desired outcome, preferences, and individual anatomy. If you’re looking to add immediate volume, lip filler may be the right treatment for you. If you’re looking to add a subtle enhancement and reduce the look of a gummy smile, a lip flip may be the right treatment for you.
Ultimately, the best choice between a lip flip and lip fillers depends on your aesthetic goals, budget, and willingness to undergo injections.
The Skin Center’s Approach to Lip Enhancements
Our highly skilled, state-licensed aesthetic clinicians have performed over 500,000 medical spa treatments since The Skin Center was founded over 40 years ago. Our expert injectors have above industry standard training and ongoing education to ensure high-level experience and expertise in filler. Remember, each syringe of filler is the same—it’s the administering clinician who makes all the difference in the end result. Experience matters.
