What is a lip flip?

A “lip flip” procedure typically refers to a medical procedure performed by a Cosmetic Nurse or Doctor to relax the muscle of the upper lip to stop it from pulling under. A “lip flip” involves the injection of Botulinum Toxin just under the skin. If you are planning a lip flip or lip filler procedure, make sure you have your arnica lip balm on hand to minimise common side effects like bruising and swelling.

What is the difference between a lip flip and lip filler?

A lip flip is where a medication made up of Botulinum Toxin (common brands in Australia are Dysport and Botox) is injected to relax the muscle that causes the lip to pull under, this can cause the lip to evert making it appear fuller. The results of a lip flip are relatively short lasting, between 3-4 months depending on the medication used and individual factors affecting the longevity of this medication. Lip filler is a procedure where a Hyaluronic acid is injected into the lips to create a fuller lip, projection or border. Hyaluronic acid fillers typically last much longer than Botulinum toxin, between 12-18months. Both are medical procedures that carry risks. Bruising, swelling and inflammation are more commonly experienced with lip filler compared with a lip flip. If you want to find out more about lip filler click here

How much does a lip flip cost?

Pricing for a lip flip will depend on your cosmetic clinic. Because a lip flip is performed with a medication the cost will depend on how much of that medication you require. A rough guide is between $80-$100.

Does a lip flip hurt?

A lip flip is performed when a medication is injected into the skin above the lip. This area can be quite sensitive and is definitely one of the more painful areas to have injected with Botulinum Toxin, with that said it is only 2 injections each side above the lip so it is performed very quickly. After an initial sting you should not expect any pain in the area.

How long does a lip flip take to work?

How long it takes for a lip flip to work will depend on the medication used for the procedure. If Botox is used for the procedure you can expect it to take up to 14 days for it to take full effect.
 
What can I expect after a lip flip?

Some people can experience some funny sensations after a lip flip! One of the most commonly experienced is difficulty drinking out of a straw or blowing up balloons, or drinking out of a coffee cup with a lid. The reason for this is the muscle we use to make these pursing actions has been relaxed. This is also the best way to know if your lip flip has kicked in! This sensation doesn’t last for too long, remember the maximum longevity is 3-4 months. Mild redness and bruising may be experienced at the site of injection. You can apply our arnica cream 3-4 times each day to assist in speeding up your recovery.
 
Lip flip after care

If you are wanting to maximise the effects of your lip flip, after care is very important. Your cosmetic nurse or Doctor will instruct you on things like, avoiding alcohol, heavy exercise or saunas as it can increase the risk of bruising. They will also advise you not too touch the area as it can increase the risk of infection and there is also a risk of moving the product to another area of the face. Applying a hydrating lip balm like the Arnicare arnica lip balm keeps your lips hydrated and in good condition whilst also reducing the chance of bruising.

Is lip filler or a lip flip better?

This will depend on a number of factors including your anatomy, budget, concerns and medical history. Both procedures produce different results and have different risks attached. Most cosmetic clinics offer complimentary consultations and this is a great question to ask them when you are considering whether a lip flip is the right procedure for you.