This week, I’m turning things over to one of our amazing nurse injectors at Racquel Aesthetics, Kristie Clements. Kristie combines years of nursing experience with a passion for aesthetics and a natural approach to treatment that helps patients look refreshed and confident while still looking like themselves. She is sharing her expertise on one of our most commonly asked questions: Lip Filler vs. Lip Flip.
Take it away, Kristie!
We’ve all heard of a lip flip and lip filler – but what exactly is the difference between the two?
While both treatments can enhance your lips, they work in completely different ways and are designed to achieve different results.
What Is a Lip Flip?
A lip flip uses a small amount of neurotoxin (Botox or Dysport) to relax the muscle just above the upper lip. As that muscle relaxes, the upper lip gently rolls outward or “flips”, making more of the pink lip visible and creating the appearance of a fuller upper lip.
A lip flip is also an excellent option for patients who show a lot of gum tissue when they smile and are looking to improve a gummy smile.
Benefits of a Lip Flip:
- Creates the appearance of a fuller upper lip
- Helps reduce a gummy smile
- Quick treatment with minimal downtime
- Cost-effective option for subtle enhancement
What to Expect:
- Takes about 10-14 days to fully kick in
- Minimal downtime (bruising is possible but uncommon)
- You may notice it feels a little funny when drinking from a straw, whistling, or gargling mouthwash
- Results typically last about 6-8 weeks
What Is Lip Filler?
Lip filler uses hyaluronic acid gel to add volume, shape, definition, and hydration to the lips. Unlike a lip flip, filler physically adds structure and volume to the lips, allowing for more customization and noticeable enhancement.
Lip filler can be a bit of a roller coaster, so you have to trust the process!
Immediately after treatment, your lips will be significantly more swollen than your final result. Don’t panic – this is completely normal. Most patients experience about a 40% reduction in swelling over the first 1-2 weeks as the filler settles into place.
Bruising is also a normal part of the healing process, which is why I always recommend scheduling lip filler at least two weeks before weddings, vacations, photoshoots, or other important events.
Benefits of Lip Filler:
- Adds volume and projection
- Improves lip shape and symmetry
- Defines the lip border
- Enhances hydration and smoothness
- Customizable to your goals
What to Expect:
- Immediate volume after treatment
- Swelling and bruising are common
- Final results are seen after approximately 2 weeks
- Ice as tolerated after treatment and stay hydrated
- Avoid excessive salty foods, which can increase swelling
- Results typically last 9-12 months
Which Treatment Is Right for You?
A lip flip may be perfect if:
- You want a subtle enhancement
- You have a gummy smile
- You’re not ready for filler
- You’re looking for a lower-cost option
Lip filler may be perfect if:
- You want more volume
- You’d like better definition and shape
- You have asymmetry you’d like corrected
- You want longer-lasting results
And remember – you don’t necessarily have to choose one or the other. Many patients achieve their favorite lip results by combining a lip flip with lip filler.
Ready to Enhance Your Lips?
Whether you’re considering a lip flip, lip filler, or simply want to learn more about your options, I’d love to help you create a treatment plan that fits your goals.
Feel free to send me a DM on Instagram @aestheticnurse_kristie or call our office at (314) 200-2334 to schedule your complimentary consultation with me. Together, we’ll determine which treatment is the best fit for you and create beautiful, natural-looking results.
XO,
Kristie
