A lip flip is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment that uses small amounts of botulinum toxin (such as Botox, Dysport or Azzalure) injected into the upper lip to create the appearance of a fuller, more defined lip. Unlike dermal fillers, which add volume, a lip flip works by relaxing the muscle around the upper lip border, causing it to gently roll or 'flip' outward. This reveals more of the pink part of the lip, making it appear slightly fuller and more prominent, particularly when smiling. The treatment is quick, relatively subtle and a popular option for people who want a natural enhancement without adding actual volume or who are not ready for traditional lip filler.

A lip flip typically lasts between 2 to 4 months, which is shorter than most other botulinum toxin treatments in other areas of the face. The lips are highly mobile, with constant movement from talking, eating, drinking and expressing emotions, which means the product breaks down more quickly here than in areas like the forehead or around the eyes. Some people find their lip flip lasts closer to 2 months, while others may get 3 to 4 months of results depending on individual factors such as metabolism, the amount of product used and how expressive their lips are. Because the effects are temporary, you can try the treatment and decide whether you want to repeat it, or you can let it wear off naturally if you are not happy with the result.

A lip flip takes longer to show results compared to dermal fillers, as the botulinum toxin needs time to relax the muscle. Most people start to notice subtle changes within 2 to 4 days after treatment, with the full effect becoming visible around 10 to 14 days later. This delayed result is typical for all botulinum toxin treatments, as the product works gradually by blocking nerve signals to the muscle. It is important to be patient and avoid judging the outcome too early. Your practitioner may schedule a follow-up appointment around two weeks after treatment to assess the results and determine if any adjustments are needed, though this is less common with lip flips than with more complex treatments.

A lip flip creates the appearance of a fuller, more prominent upper lip by relaxing the muscle that surrounds the lip border. When this muscle is relaxed, the upper lip gently rolls outward, revealing more of the pink vermillion and giving the illusion of increased volume without actually adding filler. The treatment can also soften a gummy smile by preventing the upper lip from lifting too high when you smile. The effect is subtle and natural-looking, making it a good option for people who want a slight enhancement, have a thin upper lip that disappears when they smile, or want to test the idea of lip enhancement before committing to filler. A lip flip does not add volume, plumpness or significantly change lip shape, so if you are looking for a more noticeable transformation, traditional lip filler may be more suitable.

A lip flip works by injecting small amounts of botulinum toxin into the orbicularis oris muscle, which is the muscle that encircles the mouth and controls lip movement. The product temporarily blocks the nerve signals that cause this muscle to contract, allowing the upper lip to relax and roll slightly outward. This reveals more of the lip's surface and creates the appearance of a fuller, more defined upper lip without adding any volume. The injection process is quick, usually taking just a few minutes, and involves several small injections along the upper lip border using a very fine needle. Most people experience minimal discomfort, though you may feel slight stinging or pinching. Because the treatment uses a neuromodulator rather than a volumising filler, the results are more about changing how the lip sits and moves rather than making it physically larger.

It is generally recommended to avoid strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after a lip flip. Vigorous physical activity increases blood flow and raises your heart rate, which can potentially cause the botulinum toxin to spread to unintended areas or increase swelling and bruising at the injection sites. You should also avoid bending over, lying flat or any activities that put your head below your heart for the first few hours after treatment. Light walking is usually fine, but save intense workouts, running, heavy lifting or hot yoga for the following day. Additionally, avoid saunas, steam rooms, hot baths and facial treatments for 24 to 48 hours. Following these precautions helps ensure the product stays in the targeted area and reduces the risk of side effects. Always follow your practitioner's specific aftercare instructions, as recommendations may vary slightly depending on the technique and product used.

Before a lip flip, people often have a thin upper lip that disappears when smiling, a downturned lip appearance, or a gummy smile where too much of the upper gum shows. After the treatment has taken full effect, usually within 10 to 14 days, the upper lip typically appears slightly fuller and more everted, with more of the pink lip visible even when smiling. The overall effect is subtle and natural, enhancing the lip's appearance without adding volume or dramatically changing facial proportions. A lip flip can also reduce gum show when smiling, creating a more balanced smile. The results are less dramatic than traditional lip filler, so if you are expecting a significant increase in lip size, you may be disappointed. However, for people seeking a gentle, understated enhancement or wanting to improve lip posture and smile aesthetics, a lip flip can be very effective. Your practitioner should be able to show you realistic examples from their own work and help set appropriate expectations based on your lip anatomy and goals.