Lip Flip vs Lip Fillers

Even before Kylie Jenner first used non-invasive lip enhancement to create a luscious pout, voluminous lips have been an exciting option for patients seeking to create fuller lips and a more youthful appearance. In the world of dermatology, a variety of different cosmetic treatments have been developed to boost the volume and contouring of the lips without the need for any downtime. Lip flips and lip fillers are two of the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures used for plumping the lips without the need for plastic surgery. Dr. Michele Green has over 25 years of experience performing lip flips and lip filler injections to help her patients achieve plump, soft, kissable lips.

Lip flips and lip fillers enhance the lips using two separate methods. A lip flip utilizes a neuromodulator such as Botox or Dysport to curl the upper lip up and create the appearance of a fuller lip. Lip fillers like Restylane or Juvederm utilize hyaluronic acid to provide volume and definition to the lips. Both are excellent non-invasive treatment options for those seeking to carefully improve or restore fullness and definition in the lips without the need for any downtime or adverse side effects that are associated with more invasive procedures. Patients may prefer one procedure over another based on the natural shape of their lips and the aesthetic results they are looking to achieve. Dr. Green can also combine a lip flip and lip fillers to create the perfect, natural-looking pout.

Dr. Michele Green is known as the “lip queen,” injecting some of the most beautiful lips in New York City. She holds over two and a half decades of experience treating the world’s most discerning men and women with non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including a lip flip and lip fillers. Dr. Green is consistently rated as one of NYC’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times due to her expertise and dedication to her patients. Dr. Green employs a “less-is-more” approach to cosmetic dermatology, devising a customized treatment plan and skin care regimen for each patient based on their lip anatomy and desired look. From a subtle lip enhancement with a lip flip to fuller lips with lip fillers, Dr. Green will help you decide the treatment that best fits your cosmetic goals.

What is a lip flip?

A lip flip is a noninvasive cosmetic procedure for patients looking to create a subtle enhancement or lift of the upper lip or amplify the natural curvature of the lips. A lip flip relies on neuromodulators like Botox to relax the muscles surrounding the lips. Botox is an FDA-approved cosmetic injectable that uses botulinum toxin to inhibit nerve signaling in targeted muscles. When Botox is injected into a muscle, temporary paralysis occurs to limit contractions and relax the muscle. For a lip flip, Botox is typically injected into the orbicularis oris muscle surrounding the upper and lower lips. The injections are carefully placed in the Cupid’s bow, the corners of the mouth, and the vermillion border or edges of the upper lip. In turn, the relaxed muscles encourage the upper lip to “flip” or curl outwards, creating subtle lip enhancement that relies on your natural lip shape. After the Botox is injected, it can take up to two weeks to see the full results. Botox lasts for three to four months before, and patients engage in regular sessions to maintain and enhance the results from treatment. A lip flip is ideal for patients who want to create fuller lips without increasing volume, using a dermal filler, or engaging in plastic surgery, as well as those who feel they have a thin-lipped or gummy smile.

What are lip fillers?

Lip fillers are dermal fillers specifically designed to improve volume and definition in the lips. Lip fillers are made with hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring substance involved in providing the skin with essential moisture and suppleness. When injected into the treatment area, hyaluronic acid binds with water molecules, increasing lip volume, plumpness, and hydration. Hyaluronic acid fillers have also been shown to stimulate the production of new collagen in the injection site, a key protein that provides structure and elasticity to the skin. Unlike a lip flip, lip fillers can be placed in both the upper and lower lip to enhance the shape of your lips and create plush fullness to the lips. Additionally, lip fillers can be injected into the lip lines of the top lips to smooth the skin for a more youthful appearance. Lip fillers are ideal treatments for patients who want to increase the overall volume of thin lips or reduce the appearance of aging around the mouth.

There are many different hyaluronic acid lip fillers on the market, including Juvederm Ultra XC, Juvederm Volbella, Restylane Kysse, and Restylane Silk. Each filler is created with a different concentration and linkage of hyaluronic acid to achieve the desired aesthetic look. Lip fillers typically last anywhere between six to twelve months, depending on the exact filler used. Patients often engage in annual or biannual treatment sessions to keep and maintain their perfect pout.

What is the difference between lip flip and filler?

A lip flip and lip filler are both non-invasive lip enhancement procedures used to define and shape the lips. The main differences between a lip flip and lip filler lie in the injectable used and the result they have on the lips. A lip flip relies on neuromodulators like Botox or Dysport to relax the muscles around the upper lip, resulting in a “flipped” or curled-up lip. A lip flip does not introduce any volume to the lips but rather gives the appearance of a fuller upper lip. On the other hand, lip fillers rely on hyaluronic acid to plump, hydrate, and volumize the lips. Lip fillers can be used to create a subtle or dramatic volume increase to both the upper and lower lips.

Can you get a lip flip and filler at the same time?

Yes, you can get both a lip flip and lip filler! Dr. Green often combines these two procedures in her patient’s treatment plans to fully enhance, define, volumize, and shape the lips. Patients can combine both a lip flip and filler at the same appointment, or they can schedule the procedures for two separate days. Often, patients will have a lip flip performed first to turn the upper lip and create the appearance of a fuller upper lip. As Botox takes two weeks to settle and take full effect, patients will come back two weeks later for their lip filler appointment. They will then have a better idea of what type and how much filler is needed to achieve their desired result.

What is the process of getting a lip flip or lip filler?

The first step in getting a lip flip or lip filler is to have an in-person consultation with Dr. Green in her private Upper East Side dermatology office. She will assess your medical history, facial anatomy, and aesthetic goals to confirm you are a good candidate for the procedures. Medical photography may also be taken at this time to track the future progress of treatment. Treatment can typically be performed on the same day as your consultation or at a later preferred date.

Before any injectable procedure, Dr. Green recommends patients avoid blood thinners, NSAIDs (Aspirin, Aleve, Ibuprofen, Motrin), vitamin E, fish oil, and multivitamins for one week to minimize the risk of bruising. Patients prone to bruising can take Arnika Forte, an herbal supplement, three to four days before the procedure to prevent bruising and accelerate the healing of any bruising that occurs. Patients with a history of cold sores can pre-treat with Valtrex to avoid any outbreak. Additionally, Dr. Green will prescribe a topical numbing cream to be applied to the lips one hour before your appointment to maximize patient comfort.

When you arrive at Dr. Green’s office for your appointment, the numbing cream will be removed, and the lips will be cleaned for treatment. Dr. Green will expertly inject either Botox in the upper lip for a lip flip or a hyaluronic acid filler in the upper and bottom lips. Overall, the injection process lasts about 10-20 minutes, and patients experience very few side effects, though slight bruising or swelling of the lip can occur immediately post-treatment. After the injection process, Dr. Green will immediately apply an ice pack to the lips to minimize any swelling.

What are the side effects of a Botox lip flip or lip filler?

Lip injections like a Botox lip flip or lip filler are incredibly safe and effective treatments for lip augmentation. Common side effects from any injectable treatment include mild redness, swelling, and bruising at the injection site, which resolve on their own within two weeks of treatment. To reduce the risk of swelling or bruising, Dr. Green recommends patients refrain from strenuous exercise and excessive heat (saunas, hot tubs) for 48 hours post-treatment. Blood thinners, NSAIDs, vitamin E, fish oil, and multivitamins should be continued to be avoided for an additional week to minimize bruising. Arnika Forte supplements can continue to be taken for three to four days after treatment to accelerate the healing of any bruising.

The risk of more severe side effects, including dermal filler injection into a blood vessel, increases when visiting an inexperienced or unqualified injector. Serious side effects from Botox can include drooling, muscle weakness, and difficulty speaking or smiling. When considering a lip flip or lip filler, it is essential to consult with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist such as Dr. Michele Green, who has been performing Botox and dermal filler injections for over 25 years.

How long does a lip flip last?

It takes about two weeks for the result of a lip flip to become visible after Botox injections. For most patients, the appearance of additional volume provided by a lip flip lasts between three to four months. As the procedure requires no downtime and is quite cost-effective, most patients schedule quarterly touch-up appointments to maintain the best cosmetic results.

How long does lip filler last?

Lip filler treatment tends to have longer-lasting results than a lip flip procedure, with added volume lasting from six months to a full year to maintain your new pout. Most patients will choose to engage in touch-up appointments on an annual or semi-annual basis to maintain their luscious, natural-looking pout. The type of filler used will also determine how long the lip filler results will last. For instance, Restylane Silk provides a subtle enhancement to the lips for six to nine months, while Juvederm Ultra XC generally gives fuller lips and lasts nine to twelve months.

Other FAQs about lip flips vs lip fillers

Should I get a lip flip or filler?

When it comes to choosing the right lip injection for you, it’s easy to be torn between a lip flip or lip filler. Patients often ask which procedure is the ultimate lip injection, but, in fact, there is no one “best” lip injection procedure. The best lip injection to meet your needs will be entirely based on your specific lip shape and aesthetic goals. In general, those who are looking for subtle lip enhancement and a fuller upper lip without added volume tend to opt for a lip flip. In contrast, those looking for all-over lip augmentation are likely to choose a dermal filler to create fuller lips. Many patients choose to combine a lip flip with lip fillers to maximize their lip augmentation results. A combination approach is especially helpful for individuals with thin lips looking for more definition, contouring, and volume. When you work with Dr. Green, she’ll closely examine your lips, carefully listen to your treatment goals, and discuss your medical history in order to determine which lip injection will provide you with the best possible results.

What is a lip flip vs filler?

A lip flip is a procedure that creates the illusion of increased volume by “flipping” the upper lip up. During a lip flip, Botox is injected into the muscles surrounding the upper lip, causing the muscles to “freeze.” The relaxed muscles then encourage the upper lip to curl outward, enhancing the contour of the lip and creating the appearance of a fuller upper lip. A lip filler involves injecting hyaluronic acid into both the upper and lower lips to increase volume and fullness. Lip fillers can also be injected around the mouth to smooth the appearance of fine lines associated with aging.

What is the difference between lip filler and lip injections?

Lip injections are a broad term for any non-invasive injectable procedure used to rejuvenate the lips. Lip fillers, as well as a lip flip, can be encompassed into the “lip injection” umbrella. A lip filler is a specific dermal filler product used to add volume to the lips and smooth lip lines around the lips.

Can I get a lip flip and dermal filler?

Absolutely! Many patients prefer to combine a lip flip and dermal fillers to maximize the results of their lip augmentation treatment. A lip flip is commonly performed first to curl and subtly enhance the appearance of the upper lip. Then, a dermal filler like Juvederm or Restylane can be injected to add more volume to both the upper and lower lips. Additionally, dermal fillers can be injected around the mouth and above the upper lip to erase and smooth fine lines and creases. The best way to confirm if a lip flip and dermal filler combination is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Green. She will assess your facial anatomy and devise the perfect lip augmentation plan to help you achieve your perfect pout.

Do lip flips look more natural than lip fillers?

Both lip flips and lip fillers can look very natural! A lip flip works to turn the upper lip outward, creating the appearance of a fuller upper lip without any additional volume. Many patients find that a lip flip creates very natural-looking results. However, lip fillers can look natural too! The main factors that make a lip filler look natural include the expertise of the injector and the type of lip filler used. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will assess your facial anatomy and discuss your aesthetic goals to determine whether a lip flip or lip filler is right for you. Dr. Green has over 25 years of experience injecting Botox and dermal fillers to rejuvenate the lips and has the expertise to help you achieve a more enhanced, natural-looking pout.

How long after lip flip can you get lip fillers?

Dr. Green recommends waiting two weeks after a lip flip to have lip fillers injected. Lip flips use Botox, a neuromodulator, to relax the muscles around the upper lip and turn the upper lip outward. Botox can take up to two weeks to settle and create visible results. It is best to have a follow-up visit once the Botox is settled to see the result from the lip flip and determine which lip filler would be best to complement the results. If needed, a touch-up of the lip flip can also be done at this time.

Can you get a lip flip after dermal fillers?

Yes, you can get a lip flip after receiving lip filler injections. Common side effects from lip filler injections include mild swelling, redness, and bruising near the injection sites, which resolve on their own within one to two weeks after treatment. Dr. Green will recommend that patients come in for another procedure two weeks after the lip fillers have been performed to allow time for the lip filler to settle. During your second appointment, Dr. Green will assess the lip filler results and confirm if a lip flip is needed. While patients can get a lip flip after filler, Dr. Green often recommends that patients get a lip flip done before any lip filler. A lip flip creates the illusion of a subtle, fuller lip without adding any additional volume to the lips. After having a lip flip performed, patients can come back into the office for lip filler injections to add more shape and volume to create the perfect pout. As every patient’s lip rejuvenation treatment plan is different, it is important to consult with a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green to determine the best lip flip and lip filler timeline for your specific aesthetic concerns.

Is a lip flip better than dermal filler injections?

A lip flip is not inherently better than a lip filler. Both procedures are excellent non-invasive cosmetic treatments used to contour and enhance the lips. A lip flip is best suited for patients looking to achieve a subtle improvement in the shape and fullness of the upper lip. A lip filler is best suited for patients looking to achieve fuller upper and lower lips, more volumized lips, or a reduced appearance in fine lines around the lips. When you consult with Dr. Green, she will discuss your lip concerns and create a customized lip rejuvenation plan for you.

Is a lip flip as painful as lip fillers?

No, both a lip flip and lip filler are painless procedures. Like any injectable, you may feel a slight pressure upon injection, but any discomfort can be mitigated through the use of topical numbing cream. For both a lip flip and a lip filler cosmetic procedure, the process takes no more than 10 minutes, and patients are able to resume normal daily activity as soon as they leave the office. Non-invasive lip enhancement has become so popular in part due to its convenience and its painless nature, providing full, long-lasting results that improve the appearance of the lips without any need for recovery time or general anesthesia.

Is a lip flip cheaper than filler?

Yes, a lip flip can be cheaper than lip filler. A lip flip utilizes a neuromodulator like Botox to relax the muscles around the upper lip. Some providers may price a lip flip in terms of units of Botox used or by the procedure as a whole. On average, a lip flip procedure can cost less per treatment. A lip flip typically lasts three to four months before another treatment is needed. A lip filler is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler specifically formulated to add volume and definition to the upper and lower lips. Dermal fillers like Juvederm and Restylane are often priced per syringe, and prices vary depending on your geographic area and the experience of the cosmetic injector. Dermal fillers can last anywhere between six to twelve months, depending on the exact filler used. While lip injection procedures at a Med Spa may be more cost-effective, it is critical to seek a board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Green for your lip augmentation treatment. Dr. Green carries the expertise to inject your lips safely and effectively to help you achieve the perfect pout without any risk of adverse or unwanted side effects.

Are non-invasive procedures better than a surgical lip lift?

Yes! With the rise of non-invasive procedures like lip flips or lip fillers, many patients are saying goodbye to lip lifts and other surgical procedures. A lip lift is a form of cosmetic surgery performed under local anesthesia or sedation. During this procedure, a plastic surgeon removes tissue from the area below the nose, reducing the space between the nose and the lips and, in turn, causing the upper lip to “lift” upwards. It is an option for patients who have a considerable distance between the edge of the upper lip and the nose, though it does require recovery time, as it is a surgical procedure. A lip lift is also associated with more risks and severe side effects, including scarring, nerve damage, and an allergic reaction to anesthesia.

When it comes to lip enhancement, most patients seek natural-looking results with non-invasive procedures that don’t require recovery time. Further, the permanent nature of a lip lift can be off-putting to some who are engaging with lip augmentation for the first time. For our patients, the ease and convenience of treatments like lip flips and lip fillers far outweigh the temporary nature of the treatment. The near-immediate results of lip flip and lip filler treatments, without the need for any downtime or invasive surgery, have made the result of lip injections an incredibly popular pout. Additionally, non-invasive lip procedures allow patients to adjust each treatment session to reflect their current aesthetic desires, allowing patients control over their pout.

How do I get started with a lip flip or lip fillers today?

A lip flip and lip fillers are two popular, non-invasive cosmetic procedures used to define, contour, and shape the lips. Thanks to celebrities and influencers touting their perfectly defined, luscious lips, the popularity of lip flips and lip fillers has skyrocketed. A lip flip uses Botox injections to relax the muscles surrounding the upper lip, causing the upper lip to turn outwards and create a subtle enhancement of the lip. A lip filler involves injecting hyaluronic acid into the upper and lower lips to increase volume and definition. Many patients combine lip flip and lip filler procedures to enhance the results from treatment and create the perfect pout. These procedures are safe and effective, allowing patients to rejuvenate their lips without any downtime or side effects. If you’re interested in creating added volume, improving the appearance of thin lips, or reducing the appearance of a gummy smile, Dr. Green is here to help.

Dr. Michele Green is an expert board-certified cosmetic dermatologist in New York City with over two and a half decades of experience in non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including lip augmentation. She is consistently rated as one of NYC’s top dermatologists by Castle Connolly, Super Doctors, New York Magazine, and The New York Times due to her dedication to her patients. Dr. Green utilizes a “less-is-more” approach to lip augmentation to ensure that your lip flip or lip filler procedure creates beautiful, natural, long-lasting results. When you consult with Dr. Green in her private Upper East Side dermatology office, she will tailor your special lip rejuvenation plan, including either a lip flip, lip fillers, or a combination of both, to your aesthetic concerns and lip anatomy to achieve the best cosmetic results. To find out more about whether a lip flip or lip filler may be the best choice for you, please contact our NYC-based office today or call 212-535-3088.