What Is Lip Flip?
Lips are extremely important when it comes to facial aesthetics enhancement(1).
Lip flip is an in-office cosmetic procedure that uses a small amount of botox to make the lip look fuller.
The lip flip procedure lasts for about 10-20 minutes. It involves injecting botox into the Cupid’s bow i.e. into the middle of the upper lip and the corners of the mouth.
The injection is known to temporarily relax the muscles around the lip, causing the part of the upper lip inside the mouth to flip upward and outward. This gives the lips a fuller appearance.
Who Can Go Ahead With The Lip Flip Procedure?
Those wanting to go ahead with the lip flip procedure should qualify the following conditions:
- Those wanting to achieve fuller lips
- Those who feel that their upper lip disappear while smiling
- Those who have a gummy smile and want lesser gums to be visible while smiling
How Long Does The Effect of Lip Flip Procedure Last?
The effect of lip flip procedure lasts for 8-12 weeks.
How is Lip Flip Procedure Done?
Before the lip flip procedure, the person is advised to discontinue alcohol consumption and also blood thinners like aspirin. They can worsen the swelling.
During the Lip Flip Procedure:
The lip flip procedure takes around 10 minutes to complete. The procedure is not painful therefore anesthesia is not required. People relate the pain to just like the pain of pimple on the lips.
The doctor injects the botox in the center and the corners of the upper lip.
After the Lip Flip Procedure:
After the lip flip procedure, the individual can resume daily activities. The upper lip might feel slightly numb and might look swollen.
Avoid smoking for a few days after the lip flip procedure as it may increase the risk of infection. Do not rub or massage the lips as it might cause the botox to spread. Sleep on the back so that the lips do not press on the pillow.
The result of lip flip is visible within a few days, with improvement gradually. The complete effect is seen 14 days after the procedure.
Lip flip is not permanent and the results last for 2-3 months. As the result wears off, you can get additional botox injection to maintain the result.
How is Lip Flip Different From Dermal Fillers?
Lip flip and dermal fillers, both give fuller lips, but the procedures differ.
Lip fillers only appear to make the lip plumper, but the dermal fillers actually make the lip fuller.
In dermal filler, the medical professional injects the lips with a substance made of hyaluronic acid. Hyaluronic acid gives skin structure and hydrated appearance.
Lip flips use a small amount of botox to relax the muscles around the upper lip so that it turns upward. It makes the lip look fuller but does not increase the volume.
For someone who wants to change the shape and volume of lips, dermal fillers are a better choice.
Side Effects Of Lip Flips
Lip flip is considered a safe procedure and has very low risks as only a small amount of botox is used.
There might be minor bruising or swelling at the puncture.
If a large amount of botox is injected, it would cause the lips to relax too much resulting in difficulty in closing them. It could also cause:
- Drooling
- Difficulty in spitting or whistling
- Difficulty in speaking certain words
- Difficulty in keeping fluids in mouth after drinking
- Dropping of one side of the mouth
The symptoms would subside as the botox wears off.
In rare cases, a botox might lead to a headache, fever, or chills.
Botulism is another rare side effect of botox. It is important to consult a doctor immediately if the signs of botulism are seen, which include:
- Trouble swallowing
- Difficulty breathing
- Blurred vision
- Slurred speech
Lip flip is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that can help give fuller lips without dermal fillers. It is a less expensive option than dermal filler.
It is important to consult a qualified cosmetic surgeon to go ahead with the procedure.
