Here at Contour Collection enhancing natural beauty meets the artistry of aesthetics. In the realm of non-surgical lip enhancements, the Botox lip flip stands out as a subtle yet impactful technique to create a fuller top lip without increasing the actual volume of the lip. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of this procedure, shed light on what makes someone a good lip flip candidate, and reveal some important truths that often go unspoken.
WHAT IS A LIP FLIP?
A lip flip involves the use of neuromodulators, like Botox or Dysport, to gently relax the upper lip muscle (orbicularis oris), causing a subtle relaxation or "flip,” creating the illusion of a fuller upper lip when smiling. This procedure distinguishes itself from traditional lip fillers, where hyaluronic acid is injected into the lip itself rather than treating the muscle surrounding the lips.
Administering the Botox lip flip involves injecting 4 units of Botox above the upper lip in 4 separate injections across the upper lip. The key outcome of the lip flip is the relaxation of the muscles (orbicularis oris) linked to the upper lip. This relaxation allows the lip to gently curl outward, resulting in a slightly more voluminous smile. What most people don’t know is that not everyone is a candidate for a lip flip, in fact, most are not.
There is another treatment offering that is similar to the lip flip and we refer to it as the "gummy smile." It entails a total of 4 units of Botox in two injection locations closer to each nostril and the result is the lowering of the upper lip to create a smile with an upper lip that lines the top teeth perfectly and hides some of the extra gum.
WHAT MAKES YOU A GOOD CANDIDATE?
Similar to any aesthetic procedure, not everyone's smile is conducive to a lip flip, even if they might be suitable candidates for lip fillers. Some people may want more volume in the upper lip but their upper portion of the orbicularis oris does not roll in and therefore they naturally possess the result of a lip flip. In this case the lip flip will have very little result or change.
The ideal candidate is an individual with a hyperactive muscle around their mouth, leading to the upper lip turning inward during a smile. The effectiveness of a lip flip relies on the application of a neurotoxin such as Botox to lightly weaken this overactive muscle.
While some smiles might reveal entire teeth or parts of the gums, the lip flip aims to induce a subtle relaxation in the muscle. This results in the upper mouth forming a more even line when a person smiles.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A LIP FLIP & LIP FILLER?
Although their names might create some confusion, lip flips and lip fillers are very different procedures. Lip flips utilize a neuromodulator like Botox, focusing on enhancing the appearance of the lip when the muscle is engaged (smiling) without altering its size. On the other hand, lip fillers involve injections of hyaluronic acid directly into the lips, providing volume, hydration, and shape for a fuller look and have nothing to do with facial muscles.
WHAT IS THE PROCEDURE LIKE?
Your appointment will begin with a brief consultation, allowing us to assess your smile, establish realistic expectations, aftercare, and potential side effects. Then, 4 neurotoxin injections will be delicately administered into the upper lip. The entire appointment typically takes 15-20 minutes, with the actual injections only lasting 5 minutes.
ARE THERE ANY SIDE EFFECTS?
As with any aesthetic procedure, potential side effects exist, highlighting the importance of consulting with an experienced provider to determine the suitability of a lip flip for you.
Failure to tailor the treatment to your unique anatomy and needs may result in alterations to the shape of your smile or a sensation of heaviness in the upper lip. Improper treatment can lead to issues such as drooling or difficulty maintaining a seal while using a straw or drinking.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT FOLLOWING TREATMENT?
After the treatment, you may experience injection site redness or that will subside within an hour. It is also important to state there is always the risk of pinpoint bruising which may last up to 1-2 weeks.
You will begin to notice results within 3-7 days (for Dysport) or 1-2 weeks (for Botox), and these results can last for up to 8 weeks.
In terms of downtime, most individuals can resume their daily routines immediately but must remain upright for the first 4 hours following treatment. It is important to note that you want to minimize exercise for the first 24 hours to reduce the risk of further swelling or bruising. It is also recommended to avoid makeup for the first 12 hours.
HOW MUCH DOES A LIP FLIP COST?
Although a lip flip only consists of 4 Botox units (12 Dysport units), there’s a minimum cost of $100 for any treatment with less than 8 units of Botox (25 of Dysport). A lip flip can simply be added on during your regular Botox appointment for a lower cost.
WHY WE LOVE IT:
Cost-effective & less downtime alternative to lip fillers
Creates the illusion of a fuller upper lip when smiling
Won't cause a drastic change to the look of your lips
Slows vertical lip lines from forming
FINAL THOUGHTS:
At Contour Collection, we believe in enhancing your natural beauty with precision and care. We are very particular when assessing the right candidate for each procedure. If you're intrigued by the idea of a Botox lip flip, we're here to guide you through the process, ensuring a seamless process to a more confident and radiant you!
If you have any questions about Lip Flips, we are here to help! You can reach us at (720) 629-8921, or you can book a New Client Consultation to learn more. We're happy to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process.