Are you considering a lip flip or lip filler to achieve the appearance of fuller lips? At United Plastic Surgery, we want patients to be well-informed about their options. We want you to understand the aesthetic outcome of each treatment, what the procedures entail, how long you can expect the results to last, and the care required post-treatment.
This blog post will explain the differences between a lip flip and lip filler, helping you decide which treatment best meets your needs and how to care for your lips post-procedure.
Understanding the Lip Flip
A lip flip is a non surgical procedure that involves injecting a small amount of a neuromodulator (commonly BOTOX) into the upper lip. The treatment relaxes the orbicularis oris muscle, allowing the lip to “flip” upward and outward, giving the illusion of a fuller lip without adding volume. This subtle enhancement is ideal for those who want more height in their upper lip, but not necessarily more volume. This can also be effective in improving a “gummy” smile. The lip flip has no effect on the lower lip.
How Long Does a Lip Flip Last?
A lip flip typically lasts 6 to 12 weeks, at which point you can return for a touch-up to maintain your results. The longevity of the treatment is relatively short because only a small amount of the neuromodulator is used. The duration can vary based on how quickly your body metabolizes the product.
Lip Fillers: Volumize, Smooth, & Define
Lip filler involves injecting hyaluronic acid-based products such as JUVÉDERM® or Restylane® to plump and shape the lips. This treatment achieves more volume and definition than a lip flip and can be customized to the desired fullness. Lip filler can also be used to smooth lip wrinkles and enhance lip symmetry.
The results from lip fillers last anywhere from 6 months to over a year, depending on the type of filler used and how your body metabolizes it. Touch-up treatments can help maintain your desired volume and definition over time.
What To Expect After Your Treatment
After having your lips injected, you’ll likely experience some redness and swelling. This is normal and part of the healing process. There is minimal swelling with the lip flip, and it typically resolves the same day. Lip filler swelling may last longer and typically follows three stages: initial swelling, which occurs immediately after the injection; subsiding swelling, which happens within the first week as the filler settles; and stabilization, where the final result is evident after the swelling has fully subsided, usually by the second week.
Lip Treatment Aftercare
Proper aftercare is crucial to achieving the best results and minimizing complications. After receiving lip injections, avoid strenuous exercise for 24 to 48 hours, stay hydrated, and use ice to reduce swelling. Additionally, avoid pressure on the lips, such as using straws or kissing, for at least 48 hours post-procedure.
Who Is a Good Candidate for These Treatments?
You may be a good candidate for a lip flip if you want a subtle enhancement without added volume or are concerned with a gummy smile and would like your lips to cover your gums more.
Ideal candidates for lip fillers are looking for more significant volume and definition or wishing to correct asymmetries. During a consultation, your provider will help determine the best treatment for your specific goals and lip anatomy.
Learn how to prepare for a lip flip or filler in this related blog post.
Take the Next Step
If you’d like to speak with us about which treatment will help you reach your goals, we invite you to schedule a consultation. Call us at (949) 760-0600 or to request a consultation.
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