If you’ve been scrolling through social media lately, you’ve likely seen the stunning transformations tagged “lip flip before and after.” Unlike the dramatic “bee-stung” look often associated with dermal fillers, the lip flip is the “quiet luxury” of the cosmetic world. It’s subtle, it’s effective, and it’s surprisingly affordable.
But what exactly happens during the procedure? How do you know if you’re a good candidate? And most importantly, what do the results actually look like once the swelling subsides?
In this deep dive, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Botox lip flip to help you decide if this viral beauty hack is right for you.
What Exactly is a Lip Flip?
Before we look at the results, let’s talk about the science. A lip flip isn’t a filler. While fillers like Juvederm or Restylane use hyaluronic acid to physically add volume, a lip flip uses a neurotoxin (usually Botox, Dysport, or Xeomin) to relax muscles.
Specifically, an injector places a few units of Botox into the orbicularis oris muscle—the muscle right above your upper lip.
How it Works:
- The Botox relaxes the muscle fibers that keep your lip curled inward.
- Once relaxed, the upper lip “flips” upward and outward.
- This creates the illusion of more volume and a more defined “cupid’s bow” without adding any foreign substance to the lip itself.
Lip Flip vs. Lip Filler: What’s the Difference?
One of the most common questions people ask when looking at lip flip before and after photos is: “Should I just get filler instead?” The answer depends entirely on your goals.
| Feature | Lip Flip | Lip Filler |
| Material Used | Neurotoxin (Botox/Dysport) | Hyaluronic Acid (HA) |
| Primary Goal | Shape and “flip” the lip | Physical volume and hydration |
| Ideal For | Gummy smiles, thin upper lips | Thin lips, asymmetry, volume loss |
| Longevity | 6–8 weeks | 6–12 months |
| Invasiveness | Minimal (2–4 tiny pokes) | Moderate (multiple injections) |
| Cost | $50–$150 | $500–$800+ |
The “Before”: Am I a Good Candidate?
Not everyone will see the same results from a lip flip. When you look at lip flip before and after photos, you’ll notice that the best candidates usually fall into one of three categories:
1. The Gummy Smile
If your upper lip seemingly disappears when you laugh or smile, exposing a large portion of your gums, the lip flip is your best friend. By relaxing the muscle, the lip stays lower and more visible when you smile.
2. The “Disappearing” Upper Lip
Some people have a decent amount of lip tissue, but it’s “tucked under.” A lip flip coaxes that tissue out, making the upper lip look fuller in a natural way.
3. The Subtle Seeker
If you are nervous about the “filler look” or want to “test drive” a fuller lip before committing to the cost and duration of fillers, a lip flip is the perfect entry-level treatment.
The Procedure: What to Expect During the Appointment
The actual procedure is incredibly fast—often called a “lunchtime treatment.”
- Consultation: Your injector will examine your anatomy and your smile to ensure proper placement.
- Cleaning: The area above the upper lip is sanitized.
- The Injections: Using an ultra-fine needle, the injector will place 2 to 6 units of Botox into the corners of the mouth and the cupid’s bow.
- Done! There is usually no need for numbing cream because the needles are so small and the process takes less than 60 seconds.
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The “After”: The Timeline of Results
Unlike fillers, which provide instant gratification, a lip flip requires patience. When you look at a lip flip before and after gallery, the “after” photo is usually taken at the 14-day mark.
Days 1–3: The Waiting Game
You won’t feel or see much yet. You might have tiny red dots at the injection sites, but these fade within hours.
Days 4–7: The “Heavy” Feeling
You may start to feel a slight tingling or a “heavy” sensation in your upper lip. This is the Botox starting to interrupt the nerve signals to the muscle. You might find it slightly harder to whistle or drink through a straw.
Days 10–14: Peak Results
This is when the “flip” fully manifests. Your upper lip will look more prominent, your cupid’s bow will be more defined, and your smile will look more balanced.
Real Life Considerations: Living with a Lip Flip
While the lip flip before and after photos look amazing, it’s important to be honest about the experience. Because you are relaxing the muscle used for speaking, eating, and drinking, there is a short adjustment period.
Pro Tip: For the first week, you might find that you “talk with your teeth” a bit more, or that swishing mouthwash feels a little clumsy. This is normal and usually resolves as you get used to the new muscle movement.
Potential Side Effects
- Asymmetry: If the Botox is placed unevenly, your smile might look slightly lopsided. This is why choosing an experienced injector is vital.
- Difficulty with Straws: You may temporarily lose the ability to “pucker” tightly.
- Short Duration: Because the mouth is a very active muscle, the body metabolizes the Botox quickly. Results typically last about 6 to 8 weeks.
How Much Does a Lip Flip Cost?
One of the biggest draws of this procedure is the price point. While a syringe of filler can cost upwards of $600, a lip flip usually ranges from $50 to $150.
Most clinics charge either a flat fee for the “Lip Flip Package” or charge by the unit. Since it only requires about 4 units of Botox, it is one of the most cost-effective cosmetic tweaks available.
How to Get the Best “Before and After” Results
To ensure your results are photo-ready, follow these simple pre- and post-care steps:
- Avoid Blood Thinners: Stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, or fish oil supplements 3-5 days before your appointment to minimize bruising.
- No Alcohol: Avoid that glass of wine the night before for the same reason.
- Stay Upright: After your injections, don’t lie face down for at least 4 hours to prevent the Botox from migrating.
- Don’t Rub: Avoid massaging the area for 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does a lip flip hurt?
Most patients describe it as a 2/10 on the pain scale. It feels like a tiny pinch or a mosquito bite. Because it’s so fast, most people find it much more comfortable than traditional fillers.
Can I combine a lip flip with filler?
Absolutely! This is often called the “Lip Flip Plus.” The filler provides the volume, and the Botox provides the lift. Together, they create a very polished, “supermodel” lip look.
Will it make my lips look fake?
No. This is the most “natural” enhancement possible because it uses your own lip tissue. It simply changes the way your lip sits on your face.
The Verdict: Is it Worth It?
If you’re looking for a subtle enhancement that eliminates a gummy smile and gives your upper lip a bit more “oomph,” the lip flip is 100% worth it. It’s a low-risk, high-reward procedure that fits into almost any budget.
However, if you are looking for a significant increase in size or want results that last all year, you might want to consider dermal fillers instead.
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