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January 5, 2026

Lip Flip 101: Everything You Need to Know

A lack of shape and volume in the lips is a very concerning issue for some people. In addition, people also have what is also called a “gummy smile: where the upper lip folds inward, exposing the gum. This is often something that makes some people self-conscious. However, going for filler scares people due to the perception that overfilling could result in overly plumped duck lips. The lip flip is a non-surgical method of lip augmentation that helps define the shape of the lips and makes them more voluminous and plump. Stay till the end to learn all there is to know about this gummy smile treatment

Lip Flip before and after results by the Estherian Clinic
Lip Flip before and after results by the Estherian Clinic

👄 What Exactly is a Lip Flip?

A lip flip is a type of non-invasive cosmetic procedure that focuses on improving the appearance of one’s lips. The goal is to make the upper lip much fuller and also help with eliminating a “gummy smile”. This procedure involves injecting Botox into the edges of the lips to relax the upper lip’s muscles. This gives the lips a more pouty appearance as the upper lip experiences a flip, making it look more naturally full and, therefore, covering some of the gum as well. 

🔴 It is essential that the person getting this procedure has good oral health, perfect overall health, and has a realistic expectation of the results. 

This Botox for lips procedure involves the following steps. 

  • Your healthcare provider will have a consultation with you. They will examine your mental health, run a physical health examination, check for allergies, and discuss your goals and reasons for this procedure. 
  • The healthcare provider might offer some topical anesthesia before the procedure to numb the lips.
  • Next, they will use a needle to inject the Botox into different areas of the lips. These include the edges of the lips as well as the mouth’s corners. 
  • Moreover, the lip flip procedure involves only a small amount of discomfort and requires just a few minutes to be done. 
  • The Botox will numb the muscles of the lip, causing the upper lip to roll outwards. 
  • Furthermore, the procedure only requires about 4 units of Botox. 

🔴 This procedure is ideal for those whose upper lip essentially disappears and exposes more of their gum when they smile. Those who do not want to commit to the permanent results of a surgical procedure can definitely opt for a lip flip. 

👩‍⚕️ What to Expect from the Results of the Botox Lip Flip

The lip flip procedure gives highly natural-looking results. To add to this, the recovery time is very quick, with swelling and discomfort typically subsiding within 12 to 24 hours. It can take about a week to see the full results. The final outcome involves an enhanced lip shape with the upper lip looking fuller and a cupid’s bow that looks better than before.

Furthermore, if you are wondering about how long a lip flip lasts, you should know that the results are temporary. The effects of a lip flip only last about 3 to 6 months. 

👄 A Detailed Comparison: Lip Flip vs. Lip Filler

A lip flip uses Botox to enhance the shape of the upper lip. On the other hand, lip filler uses dermal filler that consists of hyaluronic acid to plump up thin lips and make them look smooth and volumized. 

A lip flip gives a subtle improvement where the upper lip flips outward to give an enhanced pout. Conversely, lip filler helps enhance the definition of the lips. 

The lip flip procedure offers results that only last about 3 to 6 months. In contrast, lip filler can last anywhere from 6 months to a year. 

To add to this, the cost of a lip flip is typically lower per treatment. On the other hand, lip filler usually costs more per session. 

Lip Flip Results
Lip Flip Results

🚫 Are There Any Risks?

There are some risks associated with lip flips that you should know about. For starters, this procedure is not permanent, so that it won’t last as long as the surgical alternatives. Furthermore, if the healthcare provider injects the Botox in the wrong area, it can cause issues such as difficulty in speaking. The patient will have to wait for the Botox to wear off for this to reverse. Additionally, injecting too much can make the lips look unnatural. Also, if the patient is not satisfied with the results of their lip flip, they will have to wait for the Botox to wear off for the results to disappear gradually. 

👩‍⚕️ Connect with Estherian Clinic’s Surgeons

Always go for a Board-certified professional to ensure the best results. Our surgeons at the Estherian clinic are equipped with the perfect skills due to their extensive experience in plastic surgery and aesthetics to make sure you get the perfect outcome. Get your consultation booked today!