Lip Flip vs Lip Filler: Which is right for you?
With lips being the most expressive part of our face, it’s no doubt that we have insecurities regarding our thin lips, wrinkles, and lips that go away when we smile. Sometimes lips are the perfect solution to a more balanced face. And, with celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Kylie Kardashian, how could you not want perfectly plump lips?
There are two options that can help enhance your lips: a lip flip or lip filler. It’s important to discuss your expectations with your provider so that they can recommend the proper treatment to help you achieve your lip goals. We perform both lip flips and lip filler here at Pure Bliss Aesthetics. Unsure which is the right option for you? Continue reading to see the pros and cons of each.
What is a Lip Flip?
A lip flip is when a wrinkle relaxer, such as botox or dysport, is injected just above the lip to ‘flip the lip.’ The wrinkle relaxer temporarily relaxes the muscle, thus preventing the muscle from curling when you smile. Generally, there are 2-4 injection points to give 4-6 units of botox. A lip flip is a great option for someone who has a nice lip at baseline but the top lip vanishes when smiling or if gums are exposed with smiling.
A lip flip will give the illusion that you have a larger lip, though it doesn’t actually add any volume to the lip. It will give you subtle, natural results.
Because the mechanism of a lip flip is preventing muscle movement, it also has a secondary effect preventing perioral lines (or smokers lines) from forming or from getting deeper. So, if you are someone who is starting to notice lines just above your lips, a lip flip is also a good option for you.
What can you expect when you get a Lip Flip?
Because our mouths and lips are constantly moving, lip flips generally don’t last long. It’s temporary and short-lived, lasting approximately 6-8 weeks.
After getting a lip flip, there is no downtime. There may be a little swelling and redness at the injection points for about thirty minutes, but this will resolve. Results are not immediate, and take approximately 4-7 days to kick in.
The cost varies greatly depending where you go, who performs the injection and how many units are used. Some medical spas will charge up to $150, however, on average, it is priced between $50-$100.
This is a very common, quick, and safe procedure that takes about 10 minutes to perform. There is numbing cream that is applied prior, as the lips are sensitive. It’s so quick you can get it done on your lunch break!
Many people notice a numbing sensation in their lip for about one week after getting a lip flip. It may also be difficult to drink through a straw, whistle, or enunciate certain words. This is normal, but it will subside.
After getting a lip flip, it is recommended not to exercise until the following day. It is also recommended not to lay down immediately.
Pros vs Cons for a Lip Flip
What is Lip Filler?
Lip filler is when a gel-like substance composed of hyaluronic acid is injected into your lips. Common lip fillers are Restalyne Kysse, Restalyne Refyne, Revanesse Lips, and Juvederm Ultra. When getting lip filler, it is generally done with a 1.0ml syringe.
Lip fillers have many beneficial properties and are highly customizable. The most common reasons to get lip filler are to add volume, height or projection in the lips or create a more defined lip border. It can add hydration and it can help fix asymmetries, creating a more even, balanced lip. It can also address deeper vertical lines around the lips. If you have deep perioral lines, dermal filler is a better option than a lip flip.
What can you expect when you get Lip Filler?
There are many different types of lip fillers, so the longevity of results vary based on which product is used. It generally lasts between 6-9 months, sometimes up to 12 months. The cost varies significantly depending where you go, however, the average price is between $650-$800.
Results are immediate. You will leave your appointment with perfect, plump lips. However, bruising and swelling is very common. The use of Arnica and ice can be used to help with swelling and bruising. Because downtime is expected after lip filler, it is important to plan ahead if you have an event or vacation in the near future.
After getting lip filler, it is recommended not to drink through a straw or purse your lips for 48 hours. It is also recommended not to work out for 24 hours.
Lip Filler Pros vs Cons
It’s important not to love or hate your lips after getting lip filler done for two weeks. Lip filler is a journey. You will not be able to make a judgment until your lips are fully healed. Patience is important!
It is also important to mention that your lips may feel a little different, as there is now filler in them. With time, it is easy to get used to. Be patient and allow them time to properly heal. If you really feel that you don’t like your lip filler, you can always get it dissolved using an enzyme called hylenex.
If you’re scared of trying lip filler, it’s a good option to start with a lip flip. If you are dissatisfied with your results and want more volume, you can always get lip filler after. There are also some cases where we might suggest having both a lip flip and lip filler, but your provider will discuss this with you.
*It is advisable to select only FDA-approved fillers and to seek a licensed, trained provider when considering lip injections.
Contact us if you have any additional questions or if you would like to book an appointment at Pure Bliss Aesthetics for a lip flip or lip filler.
XO, Pure Bliss Aesthetics
