by Lauren Lund, RN-BSN, HNB-BC | MOBO Med Spa Corporate

We often get asked the question, “What’s the difference between a lip flip and lip filler?” Price and longevity are a few of the differences…but the main difference is the mechanism of how these treatments can provide your desired lip look. Let’s dive into what these services are and why you might be a candidate for one over the other - or even both!

What is a Lip Flip?

Lip Flips are a more subtle enhancement, and where many of our lip-interested patients begin. Lip Flips are achieved by depositing low-dose Botox® or Dysport® across the upper lip. Botox and similar products work by weakening specific, small areas of muscle into which they are injected. For a lip flip, it is the orbicularis oris muscle in the upper lip that can sometimes make it “disappear” when you smile. Lip flips do not add volume to the lips; rather, they relax the muscles that causes the upper lip to curve inward or hide while smiling. If your upper lip disappears when you smile or if you have a lip but just want to show it a bit more, a lip flip might be for you. We also can correct a gummy smile during the lip flip treatment. While lip flips aren't for everybody, Botox® lip flips give just the right result for select patients. This service can last anywhere from 2 to 4 months.

What is Lip Filler?

Are you looking to volumize your lips or correct lip lines? Lip filler may be just the trick! We use hyaluronic acid based fillers with lidocaine. Different fillers and injection techniques are used depending on whether you’re seeking additional volume, enhanced lip shape, or wrinkle reduction. MOBO providers use Juvederm® and Restylane® filler to strategically create natural-looking, plump, dewy lips. We can also correct asymmetry and enhance the border of the lip or cupid's bow. While we’ve ALL seen the over-done lips on the internet or on celebrities, know that MOBO providers aim for a natural lip, never over-done. We only inject one syringe of lip filler per session to prevent any migration or over-injected look. Lip Filler results are immediate and last approximately 9-14 months. 

Am I a candidate for Lip Filler, Lip Flip, or both?

MOBO Med Spa providers offer complimentary consultations to assess which service is best for you. Are you looking to plump up? Lip Filler might be for you. Does your upper lip disappear when you smile? Consider a lip flip. Disappearing upper lip AND looking for more lip volume? You might be a candidate for both! These services can be completed on the same day.

What Hurts More - Lip Flip or Filler?

In general, lip flips hurt less than fillers. The lips are also more sensitive than most other areas. With Botox®/Dysport® or fillers, pain can be mitigated with ice, prescription numbing, or vibration distraction. 

What is the downtime for Lip Flips and Lip Filler?

Lip Flip: Tiny bumps from the neurotoxin may be present for 15-20 minutes after a lip flip. Small injection site bruises may occur, and can be covered with makeup. The flip effect is usually noticeable starting at one week and gains full effect in about 10 days. It is normal for there to be some numbing and weakening of the upper lip with lip flip treatment, this can last 1-2 weeks or sometimes up to 2 months.

Lip Filler:  It’s normal to have redness, tenderness, swelling, mild soreness and itching sensation in the treated area immediately after the lip filler procedure, especially as numbing agents wear off. Bruising is quite common - so no lip filler right before a big event! The initial swelling or bruising after lip filler may last up to a week. As swelling settles down, lips can look somewhat uneven during this time. We like to wait a full 2-3 weeks before evaluating for any lip filler touch-ups that may be necessary. 

Interested in learning more about lip treatments? 

Go to our website or schedule your complimentary consultation with a MOBO Provider.