Table of Content :
- Introduction & Key Takeaways
- What Is a Lip Flip?
- Lip Flip vs Lip Filler: Side‑by‑Side
- Who’s the Ideal Candidate?
- Step‑by‑Step Procedure & Brand/Dose Guide
- Day‑by‑Day Results Timeline
- Risks, Side Effects & Real‑Life Cautions (Meghan Trainor, Dr. Idriss)
- Aftercare & Tips to Maximize Results
- Decision‑Tree: Lip Flip or Filler?
- Summary & Final Thoughts
Lip Flip Before and After Guide
Key Takeaways
- A lip flip uses small Botox injections to relax upper lip muscles, causing the lip to “flip” outward for a fuller look—without added volume.
- Results appear in 3–5 days, peak at ~10–14 days, and typically last 2–4 months, shorter than fillers.
- It’s more affordable (~$300–$500) and has no downtime, but carries risks like temporary lip weakness, drooling, or difficulty with drinking/smiling.
- Best for those wanting subtle upper lip lift, reducing gummy smile, or trying enhancement before committing to filler.
- Our article includes clinic‑style before/after visuals, day‑by‑day recovery, brand/dose comparisons, and real caution stories for informed choice.
1. What Is a Lip Flip?
A lip flip is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure using botulinum toxin type A (e.g., Botox®, Dysport®, Xeomin®). Tiny doses around the vermillion border and corners gently disable the orbicularis oris muscle, allowing the upper lip to relax outward and upward, creating a subtle pout—without adding volume. If you’re curious about the transformation, Lip Flip Before and After photos clearly show how this subtle enhancement can improve lip shape and smile aesthetics without the use of fillers.
2. Lip Flip vs Lip Filler: Side-by-Side
| Feature | Lip Flip (Botox) | Lip Filler (HA Dermal Fillers) |
|---|---|---|
| Method | Neuromodulator relaxes lip muscle | Hyaluronic acid gel injected into lips |
| Volume | No actual volume, just shape | Adds fullness and contour |
| Onset of Results | 3–5 days, peaks at 10–14 days | Immediate |
| Duration | 2–4 months | 6–12 months |
| Cost | ~$300–$500 (≈4–6 units) | ~$500–$1000 per syringe |
| Downtime | None | Minimal (swelling/bruising possible) |
| Ideal for | Subtle lift, gummy smile correction | Dramatic fullness, volume, reshaping |
| Potential Side Effects | Weakness, speech/drinking difficulty, drooling; sometimes over‑relaxation | Bruising, swelling, filler migration |
3. Who’s the Ideal Candidate?
Best suited for individuals who:
- Want more of their upper lip to show when smiling or speaking.
- Prefer subtle appearance without volume.
- Have a “gummy smile” or thin upper lip that recedes.
- Seek a more affordable, temporary enhancement.
- Are in good physical and mental health with realistic expectations.
Not recommended for those desiring dramatic fullness, significant lower‑lip shaping, or long‑term volume.
4. Procedure & Brand‑Dose Guide
Consultation: A board‑certified dermatologist or injector assesses lip anatomy, gummy smile, philtrum length, muscle activity, and discusses goals and risks.
Injection Points & Dosage:
Typically 4–6 units total:
- ~2 units at the cupid’s bow center (vermillion border)
- 1–2 units at each oral commissure (corners of the mouth)
- Consider brand variations:
- Botox® (Best‑known): reliable dosing with predictable results.
- Dysport® or Xeomin®: unit potency varies slightly—experienced injectors will adjust accordingly for optimal symmetry and lift.
Reviewing Lip Flip Before and After results using different brands can provide insight into subtle differences in lift, shape, and duration—helping patients and providers make more informed decisions.
Timing:
- Procedure time: ~10–15 minutes.
- Numbing cream optional.
- Minimal discomfort: mild pinches or mosquito‑bite sensation.
5. Day‑by‑Day Results Timeline
- Day 0: Immediately post‑injection — tiny swelling or redness maybe.
- Day 1–2: Slight awareness at injection sites; minimal visible change.
- Day 3–5: Lip gradually flips upward; shape more pronounced.
- Day 7–10: Peak result—upper lip has visible curl, improved symmetry.
- Week 2–4: Full effect continues; minimal bruising if present subsides.
- Month 2–3+: The effect gradually fades; muscle returns to baseline.
6. Risks, Side Effects & Real-Life Cautions
While generally safe when performed by a qualified injector, side effects may include:
- Bruising or redness at the injection site (typically resolves in a few days).
- Temporary lip weakness, which may cause difficulty sipping through straws, speaking clearly, or smiling fully.
- Drooling or over-relaxation of the upper lip if too much product is used or placed improperly.
- Celebrity caution: Meghan Trainor publicly shared her regret after experiencing loss of smile function following a lip flip. NYC dermatologist Dr. Shereene Idriss has also warned that incorrect placement may dramatically impair lip movement.
- Reviewing Lip Flip Before and After cases—especially from reputable clinics—can help set realistic expectations and highlight the importance of choosing an experienced injector.
Injector skill matters—choose board‑certified professionals with proven experience.
7. Aftercare & Tips to Maximize Results
Do:
- Apply ice packs (wrapped) for 10–15 minutes post‑treatment.
- Stay upright for 4 hours, avoid massaging the area for 48 hours.
- Use gentle cleanser and hydrating lip balm.
- Avoid exercise, alcohol, saunas for 24 hours.
Don’t:
- Rub or massage lips.
- Sleep face down for 2 nights.
- Resume strenuous activity immediately. KORA Aesthetics
Maintenance:
- Retouch every 2–4 months as effect wears off.
- Lip fillers may be added after assessing initial result if volume desired.
8. Lip Flip or Filler? A Simple Decision‑Tree
Consider:
- Want volume and shape customization → Filler
- Want natural lift or gummy smile fix w/o volume → Lip Flip
- Unsure → Consult an expert, or consider both (flip + tiny filler) for best results.
Summary & Final Thoughts
The lip flip is an elegant, minimally invasive cosmetic option for those seeking enhanced lip visibility and definition—without added bulk. With minimal cost, zero downtime, and subtle results, it’s ideal for first-timers or naturalists. Lip Flip Before and After comparisons reveal just how effective this treatment can be in delivering a naturally fuller look without fillers. However, side effects—especially around speech and smile function—highlight why injector expertise matters.
