Wrinkle Relaxer
Lip Flip
A lip flip is a non-surgical procedure designed to make the upper lip appear fuller, without actually increasing the volume of the lips.
Anti-ageing injectables are introduced to the muscles around the upper lip. This relaxes the muscles, making the upper lip turn upwards and outwards — giving the illusion of a fuller upper lip. The volume of the lip doesn't change; what's there is just rearranged to create this illusion.
Summary Of Your Treatment
About This Treatment
What Is A Lip Flip?
A small amount of injectable is introduced at the four lip flip injection points — the middle of the upper lip (the Cupid's bow) and the corners of the mouth. The injectable relaxes the muscles around the border of the lip, causing the part of the upper lip inside the mouth to "flip" outwards, hence the name — creating the illusion of a fuller upper lip without increasing the size of the lip itself.
The procedure itself is very quick, taking as little as 10 to 20 minutes to complete, and it's painless, so no anaesthetic is required.
Is This Right For You?
Who's A Good Candidate?
People who opt for a lip flip are often hoping to achieve fuller lips without dermal filler, feel their upper lip "disappears" when they smile, or want their smile to appear less gummy.
It's probably a treatment to think twice about if you have small teeth, as a flipped lip can occasionally cover them completely when smiling or speaking. If you're looking for a more permanent change to lip shape and volume, dermal filler might be a more suitable option — we'll help you decide at your consultation.
Additional Information
Lip Flip Vs Dermal Filler
Lip flips and dermal fillers both result in fuller-looking lips, but the procedures differ. Lip filler actually adds volume — a substance made mostly of hyaluronic acid is injected to give your lips more structure and a hydrated appearance. A lip flip uses a small amount of Botox to relax the muscles around your upper lip so it turns upward; this makes your lip look fuller, but its actual volume doesn't increase, it just gets rearranged.
If you want to truly change the shape and volume of your lips, dermal filler may be the better choice — if you want a subtler, shorter-lasting change without added volume, a lip flip may suit you better. We'll talk you through which is right for you.
Results, Downtime & Aftercare
What Should I Expect Afterwards?
There's no downtime associated with a lip flip, and once treatment is complete, you're free to leave the clinic and carry on with your day. You may notice slight numbness, redness, bruising or a small amount of swelling at the injection sites, but this is usually minimal.
You can help the healing process by sleeping on your back in the days afterwards to avoid pressure on the lip, and by not massaging or rubbing your lips, particularly around the injection points, so the product doesn't spread to a wider area.
You should notice early results within a few days, with the final result visible between 10 and 14 days after treatment — a natural-looking pout, without lips looking "over-stuffed" or false.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a lip flip last?
Generally, the effects last for 8 to 12 weeks. If you're looking for a more permanent option, lip filler might suit you better.
Is a lip flip suitable if I have small teeth?
It's worth thinking twice about — a flipped lip can occasionally cover small teeth completely when smiling or speaking. We can talk through whether it's the right fit for you at your consultation.
Is there any downtime?
No real downtime — you're free to carry on with your day straight after treatment, though you may notice slight numbness, redness, bruising or swelling that settles quickly.