What Is a Lip Flip? How This Quick Botox Treatment Works
What is a lip flip?
A lip flip is a quick treatment where a few units of Botox are placed along the upper lip line. The muscle relaxes so the top lip rolls slightly outward, showing a little more of the pink lip. It adds no volume and typically lasts about two to three months.
The lip flip has become a popular, low-commitment way to enhance the upper lip without adding filler. Here is exactly what it is and how it works.
How does a lip flip work?
A lip flip works by relaxing the small muscle that circles your mouth, called the orbicularis oris. When a few units of Botox soften that muscle along the upper lip, the top lip gently rolls outward and shows a bit more of its pink surface. The result is a subtly fuller-looking upper lip, even though no volume is added.
Is a lip flip the same as lip filler?
No, a lip flip is not the same as lip filler. A lip flip uses Botox to relax muscle and reshape how the lip sits, while lip filler uses hyaluronic acid to add real volume and structure. A flip creates a soft, natural change to the upper lip only, and filler can build shape, volume, and definition across both lips.
How long does a lip flip last?
A lip flip typically lasts about two to three months, which is shorter than lip filler. Because the effect comes from Botox relaxing muscle, it fades as the Botox naturally wears off. Many clients schedule a maintenance appointment a few times a year to keep the look consistent.
Who is a lip flip good for?
A lip flip can be a nice fit if you want a very subtle enhancement, if your top lip disappears when you smile, or if you are curious about lip enhancement but not ready for filler. It is a smaller, lower-cost step than filler. During your consultation in Scottsdale or Peoria, we can help you decide whether a flip, filler, or a combination suits your goals.
Is there any downtime after a lip flip?
A lip flip has very little downtime. Because it uses only a few tiny Botox injections, most people go right back to their day afterward. You may notice small red dots or minor tenderness at the injection points for a short while. As the Botox takes effect over the next several days, you might find it takes a little practice to purse your lips fully, which settles as you get used to the change. We will share simple aftercare tips so your results settle smoothly.
Curious whether a lip flip is right for you? Book a consultation in Scottsdale or Peoria, AZ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a lip flip add volume?
No. A lip flip does not add volume. It relaxes the upper lip muscle so the lip rolls slightly outward, which only reshapes what you already have.
How long does a lip flip take?
The treatment itself is quick and usually takes just a few minutes, though results take several days to fully appear as the Botox settles in.
When will I see lip flip results?
Most people notice the effect within a few days to about two weeks after treatment, once the Botox has taken full effect.
Can a lip flip be undone?
Botox is not dissolvable the way filler is, but its effect is temporary and simply wears off over about two to three months, so any result is not permanent.