A Botox lip flip is a quick, non-surgical way to make the upper lip look a little fuller and more defined, without adding volume. It relaxes the tiny muscles around the mouth so the top lip gently rolls outward for a soft and natural look.
At MarSha MedSpa, our experienced providers specialize in safe, natural-looking Botox lip flips to help you achieve a confident smile.
What is a Botox Lip Flip?
A lip flip uses small injections of botulinum toxin (commonly “Botox”) along the edge of the upper lip to relax the surrounding muscle, causing the lip to “flip” slightly outward and appear fuller. It does not add volume, it enhances shape.
How it works: Botox relaxes the orbicularis oris muscle. When this muscle softens, the upper lip everts a touch, showing more of the pink part of the lip.
Lip flip vs. lip filler:
How the Botox Lip Flip Procedure Works
Before: Review goals, health history, and desired look. Topical numbing can be used for comfort if needed.
During (injection mapping): Small injections are placed along the upper lip’s vermillion border (often near the Cupid’s bow) and sometimes near the mouth corners. Technique references recommend a very superficial placement just above the vermillion border to target the right muscle fibers.
How many units: Most providers use a small dose. Most plans use small doses, commonly about 2 to 4 units to the upper lip (sometimes up to ~6 units depending on anatomy and goals) and ~2 units to the lower lip. Exact dosing is customized.
Where is Botox injected for a lip flip? Most providers inject along the Cupid’s bow and the lateral vermillion border of the upper lip. In some cases, small injections are also placed near the oral commissures (mouth corners). The goal is to relax just the right muscle fibers for a natural roll-out effect
After (recovery): You can return to normal activities right away. Expect minor tenderness or swelling for up to 24 hours. Avoid pressing on the lips, kissing, smoking, or using straws for about 3 days to reduce unwanted spread.
Botox Lip Flip Before and After Results
- A fuller-looking upper lip with a better show of the pink lip.
- Reduced gummy smile in some patients due to decreased lip lift.
- Sharper lip definition along the border.
When results show & how long they last: You may see early changes in a few days, with full results in 1–2 weeks. The effects usually last 2–5 months, but this can vary since everyone’s body processes Botox differently.
Benefits and Risks of a Botox Lip Flip
Benefits:
- Subtle natural look: Good for a more conservative result.
- It can reduce a gummy smile by relaxing the upper lip.
- Often costs less than fillers and causes less bruising or swelling.
- Quick treatment with little to no downtime for most people.
Risks and limitations:
- Results may be too slight if you are expecting big volume changes.
- Some people may have short-term trouble sipping through a straw, whistling, speaking clearly, or mild drooling if the muscle is relaxed too much. These effects go away as Botox wears off. (This is what people often call “Botox lip flip gone wrong.”)
- Rarely, uneven results or spreading can happen, and a follow-up treatment may be needed.
Want natural-looking results without the “overdone” look? Book your Botox lip flip consultation at MarSha MedSpa today.
FAQs About Botox Lip Flip
How often will I need to repeat the treatment?
Most people repeat every 2 to 4 months to maintain the look (some experience up to 5 months). Your metabolism and dose will affect longevity.
Is it painful to get a lip flip?
Discomfort is brief and mild for most patients. The procedure uses tiny needles and is very quick; numbing options are available if you prefer. Minor swelling or tenderness can last up to 24 hours.
How soon after a lip flip can I eat or drink?
Most people can eat and drink right away, but it is best to avoid using straws or applying strong pressure on the lips for the first 24 hours.
