LIP FLIP TREATMENT
with anti-wrinkle injections
What is a lip flip?
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Small amounts of anti-wrinkle are injected into the top lip to give the appearance of a fuller, more defined top lip. It relaxes the muscle above the upper lip which creates a slight curl and pout by rolling the lip upwards.
It is designed to weaken a part of the orbicularis oris muscle- the muscle around the mouth that is used to control the shape and movement of the lips.
A lip flip works differently to dermal fillers in the lips that are plumping and volumising the lips. It is a treatment patients’ regularly book in for and one that some patients like to try before having lip filler for the first time.
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What are the benefits of a lip flip?
This treatment increases the appearance of the top lip size but also softens the lines around the top lip, commonly referred to as “smokers’ lines”.
When the muscle is relaxed around the mouth (preventing repetitive muscle movements) it can also help the dermal filler in the lips to last longer.
For those patients who might lose their upper lip when they smile, revealing their gums and teeth, it can help to prevent the lips from moving up too far or disappearing. This is commonly referred to as a “gummy smile”. A gummy smile is a common aesthetic concern that displays excess gums and is one that can impact an individuals’ confidence.
Lip flip vs lip fillers
A lip flip doesn’t add any volume to the lips, like a lip augmenting treatment with dermal fillers do. They appear fuller due to the changes in the upper lip contours.
The results are not instant. It will take a few days for the product to start to work with the full effect seen at 10-14 days. Dermal fillers provide instant volumising results.
A lip flip doesn’t last as long as dermal fillers in the lips. Dermal fillers can last up to 12 months (depending on factors discussed during the consultation) whereas a lip flip lasts approx. 6-8 weeks.
The benefits of both treatments and which one might meet your goals will be addressed during the consultation process.
Some patients require both treatments to achieve their aesthetic goals.
Can a lip flip be performed with other treatments?
It is a treatment regularly used in combination with lip dermal fillers to increase the lip volume and soften the lines around the lips.Â
A lip flip and lip dermal filler isn’t performed at the same time though, there needs to be a 2-week window between each treatment.  Some patients alternate between each treatment.
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Who is and isn’t suitable for a lip flip?
Any professional musicians or singers who play a musical instrument such as the flute, trumpet or any instrument that requires muscle and mouth control should avoid this treatment. Â When the product has been injected it will relax the muscle around the mouth limiting the strength of the muscle, so can impact how one sings or plays an instrument. Â
Many patients like to try it to first to see what their lips might look like before having a lip filler treatment.
As it is an injectable medication, a detailed consultation is required first. Your medical history is reviewed, assessment of your face and anatomy performed, and we listen to your concerns, discuss the treatment benefits, potential risks and side effects, post care instructions and will answer all your questions so you can make an informed decision about the treatment. Â During this time your suitability for the treatment is discussed with a nurse and a doctor who then authorises the treatment.Â
Lip flip procedure
A consultation is performed first to give you all the information to make an informed decision about the treatment, and you will be given the opportunity to speak with a doctor about your treatment.
Your lips are cleansed and the point of injections are marked out.
It is a relatively short procedure with a small dose of product and only a few injections into the top lip.
It will take less than 15 minutes.
The injections are placed into the lip border so some quick short acting stings can be felt.
The product will begin to work within 3 days but takes 10-14 days to see the final result.
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How long does it last?
The dose injected is a very small amount to be able to maintain muscle contraction for eating and drinking. As the dose is intentionally kept low, it does affect longevity.
In addition to the repetitive muscle movements around the mouth when eating and talking, it is a treatment that doesn’t last as long as dermal fillers. Most patients return after approx. 6-8 weeks.
Individual results vary among patient to patient depending on individual metabolism, medical conditions, skin type, skin condition, lifestyle, age, the amount of product used and where it was injected.
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Potential side effects and risks of a lip flip
The results are non-permanent so as the muscle returns to its pre treated state, any symptoms will also start to disappear.
Bruising, swelling and redness at the injection sites is possible.
Initially being able to suck through a straw, purse your lips to whistle, kiss or drink from a take away coffee cup can be a little more difficult.
Depending on product placement and dose, an asymmetric smile or dribbling can occur.
See side effects and risks summary on anti-wrinkle injections for further information or make your consultation appointment so we can discuss them in detail with you.