A Beginner’s Guide to the Lip Flip Treatment
If you’re looking for fuller-looking lips - without adding actual volume - it’s time to meet the Lip Flip treatment, one of Dr Ahmed’s go-to aesthetic treatments for soft, confident enhancement. This precision technique uses tiny injectable treatments to gently relax the facial muscles around the mouth, encouraging a subtle outward flip that creates the illusion of additional volume.
Think of it as a subtle enhancement - a minimal-effort way to lift and define the lip line. No filler, no downtime, and no dramatic changes. Just a natural appearance and a more balanced, confident appearance.
What Is a Lip Flip?
The Lip Flip is a non-surgical cosmetic treatment using low doses of Botulinum toxin injection placed strategically into the orbicularis oris - the facial muscle that frames the mouth. By softening this muscle’s pull, the vermillion border of the upper lip gently rolls outward, enhancing the appearance of lips without the additional volume typically seen in lip filler treatments.
This effective procedure is ideal for softening the upper lip, refining facial contours, and creating a well-proportioned, more youthful appearance.
How Does It Work?
The treatment involves several ultra-precise injections into the upper lip area. These target the muscles responsible for pulling the lip inward - relaxing the tension and encouraging a boost of lip volume through lift, not filler.
The quick procedure is typically completed in under 15 minutes and is considered a lunchtime treatment, with no need for anaesthetic and no disruption to daily activities.
A study in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery supports the technique, showing improvements in lip contour, lip height, and the appearance of wrinkles around the mouth as part of a wider treatment plan for facial rejuvenation.
Who Is the Lip Flip For?
This popular treatment is a favourite among clients who want natural-looking results - especially if they’re not quite ready for volume. It’s a great fit for ideal candidates who:
• Have a thin upper lip
• Notice a gummy smile when they smile wide
• Prefer a temporary treatment before considering filler
• Are seeking subtle lip enhancement without added volume
• Want to correct age-related volume loss around the mouth
An initial consultation with a qualified practitioner at The Aesthetics Doctor will help you decide if the Lip Flip is right for your facial anatomy, goals, and lifestyle.
What to Expect From Your Treatment
Botox lip flips are fast and comfortable. At your appointment, we will:
• Review your medical history and discuss your goals
• Map precise injection points tailored to your lip shape
• Use fine needles to inject small amounts of Botox with mild discomfort
Most patients experience only potential side effects such as slight redness, swelling, or tenderness at the injection site, and are able to return to daily activities immediately after.
When Will You See Results, and How Long Do They Last?
Subtle improvements begin to appear within 3–7 days, with full results visible by two weeks. The Lip Flip typically lasts between 6–8 weeks, though results can extend up to 3–4 months depending on constant movements and muscle activity.
Because of its temporary nature, follow-up treatments are recommended to maintain the effect.
Lip Flip vs. Lip Filler
Both lip enhancement procedures offer unique benefits—and can work beautifully together. Here’s how they differ:
Lip Flip
• Enhances the lip line using muscle relaxation
• Creates the illusion of volume without filler
• Ideal for those seeking a subtle enhancement
Lip Filler
• Uses hyaluronic acid dermal filler to add volume and structure
• Suitable for those wanting more dramatic definition
• Longer lasting: typically 6–12 months
For patients seeking a more sculpted lip, a combination treatment of both may offer the most tailored result.
Why Patients Love It
• Minimal commitment and minimal downtime
• Enhances the appearance of lips without volume
• Reduces the look of a gummy smile
• Maintains natural appearance and expression
• Lower cost than full lip filler treatments
• Easy to maintain with follow-up appointments
Is It Safe?
When performed by a skilled practitioner like Dr Ahmed, the Lip Flip is a safe and effective treatment. As with all injectable treatments, potential risks and potential complications are rare but can include:
• Mild swelling or bruising
• Temporary difficulty with certain expressions
• Rare asymmetry (which resolves as the product wears off)
Choosing a medical professional with deep knowledge of facial muscles and facial anatomy is key to achieving optimal results safely.
Ready for a Subtle Lift?
Whether you’re exploring aesthetic treatments for the first time or simply want a discreet way to elevate your smile, the Lip Flip treatment is an excellent option for adding definition without commitment.
Book your consultation with Dr Ahmed at The Aesthetics Doctor and experience how a few strategic injections can create beautiful, balanced results - naturally.
Featured Articles
Exploring The Benefits Of Lip Filler Dissolving Treatment
How to Make Lip Fillers Last Longer
Lip fillers are a popular cosmetic enhancement designed to restore volume, improve definition, and create a fuller, more balanced pout. The lifespan of lip fillers varies based on the type of filler used, metabolic rate, and lifestyle choices. Most high-quality fillers, such as hyaluronic acid-based options, last between 6–12 months, gradually breaking down as the body absorbs the gel-like substance.
What Are The Best Practices For Lip Filler Aftercare?
How to Prevent and Treat Lip Filler Migration
The popularity of lip fillers has made them one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures for enhancing lip volume, definition, and symmetry. However, in some cases, dermal filler migration can occur, where hyaluronic acid-based fillers move beyond the vermillion border (the natural lip edge), leading to an unnatural appearance.
