Lip Filler vs. Lip Flip: Understanding the Difference

Full, plump lips have become a highly desired aesthetic feature in recent years. Fortunately, advancements in cosmetic procedures have made it possible for individuals to achieve their desired lip appearance with the help of treatments like lip fillers and lip flips. While both procedures enhance the lips, they differ significantly in terms of technique, results, and longevity. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the world of lip filler and lip flip treatments, exploring their differences to help you make an informed decision.

Lip Flip

Lip flip is a technique that aims to enhance the appearance of the lips by using neurotoxin injections. Unlike lip fillers, which volumize the lips directly, a lip flip involves injecting small amounts of neurotoxin into the upper lip muscles to relax them and create a subtle upward curl, resulting in the appearance of fuller and more shapely lips.

Here’s a breakdown of the lip flip procedure

1. Consultation: Similar to lip filler treatments, a consultation is necessary to discuss your expectations, address any concerns, and determine the best course of action.

2. Preparation: They will then evaluate your lips, clean and mark the areas for injection, this is usually across 4 points on the top lip only.

3. Injection: Small amounts of neurotoxin are carefully injected into the muscles in the upper lip, targeting specific areas. The neurotoxin relaxes the muscle that was causing the lip to roll upwards when smiling, creating the appearance of increased volume that is completely your own lip.

4. Recovery: After the procedure, you may experience minimal swelling or bruising, which usually subsides within a few days. The full effects of the lip flip can be observed within two weeks.

The lip flip technique offers a subtle enhancement to the lips, providing a more pronounced vermillion border (the line between the lip and the surrounding skin) and a slightly fuller appearance. Results typically last around two to three months before the neurotoxin wears off, and subsequent treatments are required to maintain the effect. This procedure is often complemented well with a gummy smile procedure. 

Lip filler

Lip filler, also known as lip augmentation, is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, and volume of the lips. It involves the injection of hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers into the lips, which helps to plump them up, providing a fuller and more defined appearance. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the body, making it safe and well-tolerated by most individuals.

The process of getting lip fillers

1. Consultation: A consultation with a qualified medical professional is essential to discuss your desired outcomes, address concerns, and determine the most suitable approach for your lips. A safe procedure is paramount and consultation including medical images is a non-negotiable.

2. Preparation: Before the procedure, a numbing cream may be applied to minimize any discomfort. The medical professional will then assess your lips and feel for any lumps bump and irregularity’s that are pre-existing.

3. Injection: Using fine needles, the filler solution is carefully injected into predetermined areas of the lips. The medical professional may massage the lips to ensure an even distribution of the filler for natural-looking results.

4. Recovery: After the treatment, you may experience mild swelling, bruising, or redness, which typically subsides within a few days. The full effects of the lip filler can be seen once any initial swelling has resolved, usually within a week or two.

The results of lip filler treatments are immediately noticeable, providing instant volume and plumpness to the lips. The effects typically last anywhere from six to twelve months, depending on factors such as the type of filler used, individual metabolism, and lifestyle choices.

Can I have a lip flip and lip filler?

Yes, is it possible to have both procedures however a lip flip will need to be performed 2 weeks prior to any filler to see how the lip will sit to ensure a pleasing aesthetic result after filler is completed. 

Conclusion

So, as you can see a lip flip is a relatively minor procedure with minimal downtime that provides a completely natural result as it is all your own tissue. A lip filler is injection of a gel like substance to add volume which will have an instant visual impact but can absolutely yield a natural result particularly in the instance of age-related volume loss. 

Disclaimer: Content in this blog and linked materials is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. If you or any other person has a medical concern, professional medical treatment should be sought. Call your doctor or emergency services immediately if you believe you have a medical emergency.