If lip filler is a complete costume change, a lip flip is the quick backstage adjustment: small, strategic, and meant to look like you. Like adding a nice accessory to your already stunning outfit.
A lip flip is a common aesthetic treatment that uses a tiny amount of neuromodulator (AKA: a wrinkle relaxer- often Botox® or a similar product) placed around the upper lip to relax specific muscle fibers around the top lip. When that muscle relaxes, the upper lip lips ever so slightly by rolling upwards making it appear a bit fuller and more visible without adding volume the way filler does.
Lip Flip vs. Lip Filler: What’s the Difference?
Think of it like this:
- Lip flip = shape
It helps the upper lip “show up” in a bigger way (often most noticeable when smiling) by relaxing the muscle that tucks it under. It can also help with treating a gummy smile.) - Lip filler = volume + structure
Filler adds actual volume with HA filler (this can build out structure, correct asymmetry, and shape the border of the lips).
A lip flip doesn’t truly add volume. Like an aesthetics magic trick, it creates the illusion of a fuller upper lip by changing muscle pull and lip position.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Lip Flip?
A lip flip tends to do wonders for people who want a subtle augmentation- not a large change in volume or shape.
You might love it if:
- Your upper lip “disappears” when you smile, what some people may call a “gummy smile”
- You want a more defined Cupid’s bow / upper lip border
- You want a subtle tweak without committing to filler, kind of like a trial run.
- You see an excess amount of upper gum when you smile that you’d like to reduce (in some cases)
In the event that you’d like extra definition and shape, you can combine a lip flip and filler! Adding a little filler in addition to the lip flip can actually provide more authentic looking results.
What Does a Lip Flip Actually Do?
During a lip flip, a provider injects a small amount of neurotoxin to the upper lip area (often near the Cupid’s bow and edges). The goal is to relax part of the orbicularis oris (the muscle around the mouth). When it relaxes, the upper lip turns outward just a bit, making it look more pronounced.
What it can improve:
- Upper lip visibility at rest and/or when smiling
- Lip line definition (subtly)
- The “lip curling under” effect
What it won’t do:
- Create big volume
- Replace filler if you want a noticeably plumper lip
How Long Does a Lip Flip Last?
Because we talk, smile, sip iced coffees, and generally keep the mouth area in constant motion, lip flips tend to wear off a bit faster than other neuromodulator areas.
- Many people see results for about 6–8 weeks, sometimes up to ~3 months
- For comparison, botulinum toxin effects in many cosmetic areas can last ~3–4 months
When Will I See Results?
Most people notice changes gradually:
- Early changes can show up within a few days
- Full effect is often seen by about 1–2 weeks
Your provider may recommend a quick follow-up to assess symmetry and the exact look once it’s settled.
How Much Does a Lip Flip Cost?
Pricing varies by location, injector expertise, and the number of units used. Many practices commonly quote a range around $100–$300, since it typically uses fewer units than larger wrinkle areas.
What Does a Lip Flip Look Like Before and After?
Most before-and-after changes are subtle—the kind of change your best friend notices but can’t quite name. Common “after” notes:
- Upper lip looks a bit more defined
- Lip appears slightly fuller when smiling
- Cupid’s bow may look a touch more pronounced
A key detail: lip flips can look different depending on your anatomy, muscle strength, and how expressive your smile is. A good consult includes talking through realistic outcomes (and whether you’re actually a better fit for filler or a combo approach).
Risks, Side Effects, and “What If I Hate It?”
A lip flip is generally quick and low downtime, but it is a medical procedure—tiny placement matters.
Common temporary effects can include:
- Mild swelling or bruising at injection sites
Less common (but important) possibilities—especially if the product relaxes the muscle too much:
- Difficulty sipping through a straw
- Slight speech changes
- Drooling or trouble fully puckering/closing the lips
These typically fade as the neuromodulator wears off.
And the “can you undo it?” truth: you can’t reverse it instantly—you wait it out.
(So: choose an experienced injector like you choose a tattoo artist. Face stuff deserves résumé energy.)
Lip Flip Aftercare: Simple, Not Dramatic
General botulinum toxin aftercare is usually straightforward:
- Avoid rubbing/massaging the area right after treatment
- Follow your provider’s specific guidance on workouts, heat, and facial treatments for the first day or so
FAQ
Can I get a lip flip with filler?
Yes—lip flips can be done alone or paired with filler for more shape and volume.
Is a lip flip “better” than filler?
Neither is better—just different tools. Lip flip is for subtle definition/eversion; filler is for volume/structure.
Will it fix a gummy smile?
It can help in certain cases by relaxing the muscle that elevates the upper lip—but candidacy matters.
The Takeaway
A lip flip is the quiet luxury of lip treatments: small, strategic, and designed to let your natural shape do the talking. If you want a hint of upper-lip definition—without adding volume—it may be your perfect first step.
Medical note: This article is educational and not personal medical advice. The safest next step is an in-person assessment with a qualified injector to discuss your anatomy, goals, and risks.
