While Botox may be most commonly associated with smooth foreheads and wrinkle-free under eyes, the famous tweakment can be just as useful for adding volume, too. In fact, the ‘lip flip’ – a procedure which uses small amounts of Botox to give the appearance of fuller lips – has been gaining traction in recent years as a short-term solution for a supple pout.
Unlike the zeitgeist-snatching lip fillers – which necessitates the injection of hyaluronic fillers into ones lip or the skin surrounding them – lip flip treatments use Botox to temporarily relax the muscles around the lips. This causes the lip to “flip” outwards, giving the appearance of a fuller, more defined pout. In essence, it yields a similar aesthetic result to lip fillers, at a fraction of the cost (albeit, with less long-lasting results).
So, is it really worth forgoing filler in favour of the flip? Ahead, we break down everything you need to know before booking an appointment, from cost and longevity to pain and risks.
What Does a Lip Flip Do?
A lip flip is relatively non-invasive and simply involves having a neuromodulator (most commonly, Botox) injected into or around your lip. The substance relaxes the muscles in your lips causing it to loosen and turn out.
Essentially, it gives the appearance of fuller lips without actually making them fuller.
How Long Does a Lip Flip Last?
Initially, it can take up to 12 days for the results to be fully visible. While longevity can vary based on a range of health and lifestyle factors, a lip flip tends to last between six weeks and three months, but some patients have reported seeing results for up to five months after the initial injection.
Is a Lip Flip Painful?
The entire procedure takes around 15 minutes in total. While a lip flip tends to be less painful than lip filler, given there is not a thick substance being pushed into the area, it can still be a little painful for some. Most commonly, each injection feels like a tiny pinch, with each lasting several seconds.
If you are concerned, you can mitigate the risk of any pain by asking your injector to apply a topical numbing cream beforehand.
Lip Flip Cost
In Australia, the cost of a lip flip will vary by region, with clinics in major cities like Sydney and Melbourne tending to carry high price points. Generally, one session will cost between $50 and $200.
What About The Risks?
As with any cosmetic procedure, lip flips come with a level of risk. More commonly, because the procedure relaxes the muscle in your lip, you may experience difficulty doing certain things with your mouth, such as drinking through a straw. You may also experience swelling and slight bruising at the injection site.
There is also a risk of the muscles in the lip relaxing too much, causing you to drool or struggle with eating, drinking or speaking. In extreme, rare cases, the injection could potentially damage the nerves directly, or you could contract botulism, a disease which attacks the body’s nerves.
If you notice any unusual side effects, seek medical advice immediately. Always consult your doctor or nurse (TikTok doesn’t count, thank you) and ensure you are aware of potential side effects before going under the needle.
Happy flipping!
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