Want fuller-looking lips? Many people opt for lip fillers to get the plumpness they want, but there’s another option you may not have heard of: the Botox lip flip.
This article will explore how long you can expect a Botox lip flip to last, along with a detailed look at the procedure itself.
We’ll cover what a Botox lip flip is, how it works, and the factors that can affect how long your results will last. So, if you’re wondering “how long do lip flips last?” keep reading!
What is a Botox lip flip?
A Botox lip flip is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure that uses Botox injections to enhance the appearance of the upper lip. During the procedure, a practitioner injects Botox into the orbicularis oris muscle, which encircles the mouth.
The Botox relaxes the muscles above the upper lip, which allows the lip to gently “flip” upward, creating a more visible vermillion border.
Unlike lip fillers, a lip flip doesn’t add any volume to the lips. Lip fillers add volume and can reshape the lips. A lip flip is also a useful treatment for gummy smiles. By relaxing the muscles that elevate the lip, a lip flip can reduce the amount of gum that shows when you smile.
Factors affecting the duration of a Botox lip flip
A Botox lip flip is a temporary fix, so how long it lasts can depend on a variety of factors.
Dosage and injection technique
The amount of Botox injected and how it’s injected can affect how long a lip flip lasts.
Typically, a practitioner will inject 4 to 6 units of Botox at the corners of the mouth and near the Cupid’s bow, but the exact dosage can be different depending on your specific anatomy and the look you’re hoping to achieve. It’s important to choose a highly experienced injector who can optimize your results and minimize the risk of complications.
Individual metabolism and muscle activity
Your own metabolism and how you use your mouth muscles can also affect the duration of a lip flip.
If your metabolism is speedy, you may break down the Botox more quickly than someone with a slower metabolic rate. Because the orbicularis oris muscle is constantly in use when you talk, chew, and make facial expressions, the Botox in your lips will likely wear off more quickly than Botox in other areas of your face.
Botox brand and formulation
Although all Botox brands use the same active ingredient—botulinum toxin type A—subtle differences in the formulation of each brand can affect how long the injection lasts. Proper storage and handling of the Botox are also crucial to maintaining its effectiveness.
How long does a lip flip typically last?
Unfortunately, lip flips don’t last forever. Most people see results for about 2 to 4 months.
You’ll probably notice a change in your upper lip within 2 or 3 days after the injection. The full effect usually takes about 10 days to appear.
As with any cosmetic injection, the longevity depends on several factors. Your metabolism, your typical level of muscle activity, and the dosage all play a role in how long the effects last.
Pros and cons of a Botox lip flip
Like any cosmetic procedure, a Botox lip flip has its pros and cons.
Pros
- Subtle enhancement
- More affordable than fillers
- No downtime
- Temporary results let you try out lip enhancement without a long-term commitment
- Can address a gummy smile
Cons
- Results may be too subtle for some
- You may have trouble with some mouth movements, like spitting, whistling, or pronouncing certain words
- You’ll have to repeat treatments to maintain the effect
- If the injections aren’t done correctly, your results may be uneven
How to make your lip flip last
If you like your lip flip results, here are a few things you can do to maintain them:
- Schedule regular appointments. Most people come back every two to three months for a quick touch-up.
- Follow aftercare instructions. Protect your lips from the sun and drink plenty of water.
- Consider combination treatments. Some people choose to get a small amount of filler along with their lip flip. The filler can enhance the results and may even help them last longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cons of a lip flip?
While generally safe, lip flips aren’t without potential drawbacks. Some people experience temporary difficulty with certain mouth movements, like whistling or drinking from a straw. In rare cases, the toxin can spread, causing temporary muscle weakness beyond the lips. Also, the subtle effect might not be noticeable enough for some, leading to disappointment.
Does a lip flip wear off?
Yes, absolutely. The effects of a lip flip are temporary, as the botulinum toxin gradually wears off. Typically, you can expect the enhanced lip appearance to last for around 2 to 5 months. After that, the muscles will return to their normal activity, and your lip will revert to its pre-treatment state.
How often should you get a lip flip?
Because the results are temporary, you’ll need repeat injections to maintain the effect. Most people schedule lip flip appointments every 2-5 months. It’s important to avoid overdoing it, as too-frequent injections can potentially lead to muscle weakening or resistance to the toxin over time. Discuss the best schedule for you with your injector.
Is it hard to kiss with a lip flip?
Some people report a slightly different sensation when kissing after a lip flip. The altered muscle movement can make it feel a bit less natural initially. However, this is usually temporary as the muscles adapt. Most people find they can still kiss comfortably and enjoyably after a lip flip.
In Conclusion
The Botox lip flip is a quick, nonsurgical way to enhance your upper lip. But it’s temporary, with results that typically last two to four months.
It’s important to have realistic expectations about what a lip flip can do. It’s a subtle enhancement, not a dramatic transformation.
To get the best possible results and minimize the risk of side effects, you should only trust an experienced and qualified injector. Talk to a board-certified facial cosmetic surgeon to find out if a lip flip is right for you.