In today’s world of beauty, having fuller lips is one of the standards. Thanks to celebrities like Kylie Jenner, more people want to enhance their natural beauty by enhancing their lips. To address the demand for better lips, many cosmetic and beauty centers offer products and services like lip scrubs, fillers and other lip-plumping techniques.
Botox is also a solution, specifically the Botox lip flip.
This lip-plumping solution is a hot topic in the field of non-surgical lip enhancement. Botox is already a standard when it comes to “lunchtime cosmetic fixes,” which is why many consider getting their “lips flipped” with it. However, some are hesitant due to the side effects. After all, no one wants to become the victim of a Botox lip flip cone wrong. Many wonder: “Should I go for Botox or something else?”
So, if you’re considering this procedure, make the decision by knowing the basics first.
What is a Lip Flip?
A lip flip is a non-surgical procedure that makes the lips look fuller with a healthy dose of botulinum toxin (aka Botox). A doctor will inject Botox into your upper lip to create the illusion of larger lips. The entire process takes less than two minutes. Because of this, it is suitable for people who aren’t fans of invasive cosmetic fixes.
The procedure relaxes the muscles above your lip, which “flips” your upper lip slightly upward. A lip flip can make your lips more prominent, but it doesn’t increase the size of your lips. This procedure is ideal for people who are uncomfortable with their gummy smiles. After the “flipping,” less gum will be visible since your upper lip elevates less.
What’s The Difference Between Lip Fillers and a Lip Flip?
Dermal lip fillers are gels injected into the skin to enhance facial contours, restore skin volume and smooth out wrinkles and lines. Lip fillers place second on the list of most common non-surgical cosmetic procedures.
Hyaluronic acid is one of the most popular types of dermal fillers. The acid, which naturally exists in the body, restores moisture and volume in the skin. Once a doctor directly injects this substance into the lips, it boosts your lip volume and creates more definition, which results in fuller-looking lips.
On the other hand, lips flips are more affordable and less invasive than dermal fillers. However, they do not last longer (when compared to dermal fillers, which can last between six to 18 months). Also, dermal fillers show immediate results while lip flips can take up to a week. The latter, however, gives you a more natural look.
Who Needs a Lip Flip?
Many people who want to get a lip flip want to achieve fuller lips. As you age, the lips start to thin out. Your philtrum — the groove between your septum and upper lip — could get flatter and longer. The distance between the corners of your mouth could also increase. A lip flip reduces the gap by making your upper lips fuller.
Other reasons for wanting the procedure include:
- You want to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Botox relaxes the muscles, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
- You want to cover your gums. Some people are conscious of the appearance of their gummy smiles. A fuller lip can reduce the visibility of your gums.
- You don’t want lip augmentation or lip fillers. Lip fillers and lip augmentations change the shape and volume of your lips. They also lead to more swelling and bruising. These procedures can also be more expensive.
- You want to boost your self-confidence. A lip flip can improve your self-esteem.
What Happens Before a Lip Flip Procedure?
Before your procedure, you’ll meet with your doctor to assess a variety of factors, such as the state of your lips, your budget, etc. Your healthcare provider might also ask you the following questions:
- What are your expectations of the procedure?
- Why do you want to get a lip flip?
- Do you have health concerns that might impact the procedure?
Following the last question, your healthcare provider will evaluate your general health, which includes risk factors and preexisting health conditions. Let your doctor know about your allergies and the prescriptions you take. The latter might interfere with the healing process.
What Happens During the Lip Flip Procedure?
Since the procedure is a non-invasive one, your doctor will unlikely recommend the numbing of the lips. However, if you have a fear of needles or are concerned about the pain, let your doctor know so they’ll apply a topical anesthetic or numbing cream for your peace of mind.
During the procedure, your doctor will inject the Botox with a thin needle. They will inject the toxin in parts of your upper lip, which includes the edges of your lips and the corners of your mouth. You might experience some stinging, but it’s not too painful.
On average, your doctor might insert two units of Botox into your lower lip and two to four units into your upper lip.
What Happens After a Lip Flip Procedure?
After the procedure, your doctor will monitor you for up to 15 minutes. The monitoring part ensures that you won’t experience side effects, which include:
- Substantial bleeding
- Swelling
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Allergic reactions
Once you’ve passed the monitoring stage with flying colors, your doctor will discharge you. Expect some numbing, sensitivity and swelling after the procedure, though.
How Long Does a Botox Lip Flip Last?
The time it takes the lip flip to work, as well as how long the results will last, depends on the patient. Some lip flip fillers last for six months, while other patients enjoy plumper lips for two years or longer. To adjust your expectations, it’s best to talk to your doctor first.
Is Lip Flipping Botox Worth It?
The Botox lip flip is an excellent alternative for patients who want a more subtle form of lip enhancement. If dermal fillers aren’t an option, lip-flipping is your best bet.
To decide if this lip filler option is for you, contact a specialist first. During the consultation, they’ll assess your facial aesthetics and let you know if a lip flip is for you.
