It seems like the majority of girls are getting lip injections these days. You either see these perfect pouty lips that you envy or the botched set that you know went wrong. Just like any other modification to the body, you should make sure you do your research.
We all have some kind of insecurity about our bodies that we dislike and want to change. Mine happens to be my thin upper lip that seems to disappear each time I smile. I also have been noticing, being behind a camera more these days, that my face is asymmetrical and the right side of my mouth curls up further than my left. This leaves me with a crooked smile and a hidden lip. I hate it! If you don’t believe me check the photos below.
During my research, I discovered something I didn’t know existed. It’s called a lip flip and can be an alternative to getting lip injections. Being unhappy with my smile more so than my actual lips I started reading up on it and then followed up with questions to facial aesthetics specialist, Alicia from Hydrate Me in Columbus Ohio.
If you follow my blog, you may have seen my Botox post for cosmetic and medical purposes. When I was there for migraine and jaw clenching treatment, we discussed my smile insecurity as well. This is when I mentioned a lip flip and wanted to get some answers. Unsure if this is the route I needed to go to get the desired smile I wanted, Alicia was great at explaining it. So we decided that it was the best route for me.
What is a Botox Lip Flip?
A Botox lip flip is using Botox along the upper lip to enhance the look of your lips without the use of fillers. This is a more subtle look that is a quick and affordable way of changing the look of your lips to a more desirable look.
How does it work?
The way a lip flip works is by injecting small amounts of botox along the upper lip. Temporarily relaxing the muscle causing the lip to slightly “flip” upward. This allows more of the pink portion of the lip to show, giving the illusion of a fuller look. Also when smiling, the muscle is relaxed enough that it doesn’t pull your lip up so much that it disappears. Helping to eliminate the “gummy” smile.
For some, they may see a difference in a few days. But the average time for a noticeable difference is about five to seven days. The lip flip also only tends to last three to five months. So this is a more temporary solution just like Botox anywhere else.
Cost
Lip flips are significantly cheaper than fillers. Fillers can cost hundreds of dollars. Depending on the type of filler that is used and how much is needed to achieve the look that is wanted. Lip flips are only a few injections of ten or less in the upper lip and you pay per unit. I only needed four injections and paid only $40 for my injections because it was $10 per Botox unit.
Lip Flip or Fillers?
If you’re anything like me, you don’t like spending your money and finding out later it was a waste. I mean, no one likes to waste their money! So which is best for you, lip filler or a lip flip? Well here is the what I could come up with to help you choose:
Lip Flip If…
– You’re looking for a subtle pout to your lips
– Want fuller lips but not extra volume
– You feel like you upper lip disappears or you have a “gummy” smile
– You want something more temporary (3-5months)
-*More affordable, but will need maintenance every 3-5 months
Lip Filler If…
-You are looking for a change in your overall lip shape
-You’re wanting to add more volume to your upper and lower lips
-You want a longer-lasting treatment (6mon-1yr)
– You want to take care of verticle lip lines
* Costly and may need more than one session
Things to Know before a Lip Flip
Overall, you may not notice a huge difference in your lips like you just had lip filler placed. Instead, what I noticed was that my smile was more symmetrical and my upper lip appears in photos now! Also, keep in mind that Botox relaxes your muscles so it may feel weird or challenge you when drinking from a staw or making the “kissy” face. Personally, I still drink from a straw every day, but I do notice that it’s a little more challenging but not enough to keep me from doing it – ha.
Overall I am very happy with my choice of trying a lip flip. It was basically painless and more affordable than buying a syringe of filler. If you are on the fence of which is best for you, try this and see if it works for you. I bet you will be genuinely surprised at what your lips can look like.
Always do your Research!
Keep in mind, if done incorrectly it may affect the way you move your lip, your smile or even your ability to eat or drink. This can be caused by too much Botox or improperly placed Botox injections. That is why it is very important you take the time to research who you go to and make sure they are skilled and experienced.
Feel free to reach out to me with any questions or visit my Instagram page where I have posted several IGTV videos in my Botox series.
