Considering A Lip Flip? Here Are The Pros And Cons

Hailed as the alternative to filler at a fraction of the cost, a lip flip is the new “it” cosmetic procedure that has gotten many to migrate (no pun intended) toward a fuller pout without having to deal with the dreaded "duck lips."

Popularized on TikTok, a lip flip is a procedure that's supposed to create the illusion of a larger and plumper upper lip without actually adding any volume or distorting the appearance of the natural contours.

However, while lip flips undoubtedly have a few pros compared to fillers, are they really that safe? Or are there still some side effects you should consider before trying it out? Let’s discuss everything you need to know before getting a lip flip and whether it's a worthy alternative to fillers.

What Is a Lip Flip?

A lip flip is a cosmetic procedure similar to fillers in the sense of having a needle injected into your lips to achieve a particular look, with a slight difference between the actual material being injected and the mechanism of work.

A lip flip involves injecting some form of neuromodulation (like Botox or Dysport), a substance that helps relax specific muscles in the upper lip, particularly along the border at the Cupid's bow. When the substance kicks in and the muscle relaxes, the lip will roll slightly upward and outward, showing more surface area – rather than increased volume, which is the case with fillers. This will result in the appearance of fuller lips, and the upper lip will appear to have more of a pout. Fillers achieve a similar result by placing the filler substance, such as hyaluronic acid, in the lips themselves.

The Appeal of Lip Flips

Interest in lip flips has steadily risen over the past couple of years due to platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where the perfect pout is a highly sought-after look.

However, this increase seems to coincide with the decrease in filler momentum, which may be connected to new studies suggesting that filler can not only stay in your system for years longer than previously thought, but can also lead to swollen lymph nodes and even concerns of lymphoma, a type of cancer.

And, let's not even get started on the recent criticism directed toward Kylie Jenner's appearance at a Jean Paul Gaultier event back in January, which prompted many TikTok users, including professionals in the industry, to very openly discuss her overfilled lips and question whether fillers can truly enhance your look or whether they make your facial proportions look unnatural and unflattering.

Hence, the pendulum seems to have swung toward a supposedly safer alternative to plump up your lips and achieve that perfect pout without putting your health at risk while also avoiding an unnatural result. It seems many celebrities are choosing this increasingly popular route, with names such as Gwen Stefani and Hailey Bieber, and even seasoned filler users such as Kim Kardashian and Madison Beer, moving toward lip flips to achieve a perfect smile.

Besides looking more natural, a lip flip has the potential to improve the appearance of a gummy smile, where the upper gums are exposed more than usual when smiling, which many perceive as a less desirable physical feature. By relaxing the upper lip muscles, the substance used in a lip flip causes the upper lip to move slightly upward and outward, resulting in more of the gum being covered when you smile.

The Considerations

Now, lip flips and fillers may be different from one another, but they sure share the same considerations you need to keep in mind before deciding on getting either of them.

First and foremost, any cosmetic procedure comes with its own risks, regardless of how minimal some may make it seem. Therefore, before undergoing a lip flip, which many consider the more natural way to achieve the desired results, you need to be aware of a few things:

Cost

The cost of a lip flip can vary widely depending on geographical location, the practitioner's experience, and the brand of neuromodulator used. On average, a lip flip procedure may range from $100 to $200, making it a more affordable option compared to lip fillers, which can range from $300 to $2,000 for a single treatment.

However, you should take into account that while lip flips are more budget-friendly, they typically last around 2 to 3 months, whereas fillers can maintain their effect for six months to a year or more. Consequently, the perceived savings with lip flips could diminish if you require more frequent treatments to maintain the desired pout, as our bodies break down substances such as Botox and Dysport at different rates, so some people may need more frequent touch-ups.

Potential Risks and Dangers

While a lip flip is generally considered a safer alternative to lip fillers, it is not without potential side effects and complications.

Lip fillers are notorious for causing bruising and swelling due to the physical insertion of material into the lips, and lip flips also carry risks of similar side effects, such as redness, tenderness, and bruising, even though the substance technically only works on a muscle under the skin.

Besides minor discomforts that last for a short period, lip flips can result in more serious complications, including an asymmetrical result, an inability to drink liquids from a glass or a straw, drooling, and difficulty pronouncing certain words. In rare cases, lip flips can lead to prolonged muscle paresis, which might affect your smile and facial expressions.

Although instances of severe side effects from lip flips are uncommon, they are still a possibility, and we mustn't forget that this is quite a newly popularized procedure. We were told the same thing about lip fillers, and are only now finding out about the potentially serious health dangers of prolonged filler use after this procedure has already become one of the most performed cosmetic procedures in the world.

Recovery Time and Process

Post-procedure, the recovery timeframe for a lip flip is relatively short, and most people can typically return to their daily activities immediately. The only notable restriction is no strenuous exercise for about 24 hours to allow the injected substance to settle properly without spreading to unintended muscles.

Due to the temporary swelling and bruising post-lip flip, you might need to avoid wearing lipstick or any other lip product to prevent the risk of infections if the product enters the tiny pricks made by the needles. And finally, it's best to avoid rubbing, massaging, and even biting the treated area to prevent the product from migrating, which can lead to asymmetry or other undesired results.

Choosing the Right Professional

Choosing the right professional for any cosmetic procedure is crucial to ensure safety and to achieve the best possible outcome. When researching for a qualified doctor, looking for board certification in dermatology, plastic surgery, or another specialty relevant to cosmetic procedures is essential. From there, you must verify their credentials through appropriate medical boards like the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Dermatology.

Once verified, you want to see their work beforehand, which most doctors can provide through before-and-after portfolios on their social media platforms; however, some may even be happy to personally connect with you and send you photos of previous clients privately. This additional step can provide peace of mind, as you will be sure of the results and may even better understand the professional's aesthetic preferences and style.

If you decide to meet a professional injector, don't hesitate to ask questions during your consultation. And if asking too many questions makes you nervous, you can always prepare a list of your queries beforehand so you don't forget any important ones. Make sure to ask about their post-procedure support and how they handle any follow-up concerns or touch-ups you might need.

Always remember that a trustworthy professional will be transparent about the procedure and encourage your understanding and comfort throughout the process.

Closing Thoughts

In the end, it all boils down to personal choice and preference. While some people may find lip flips more appealing due to their natural-looking results and budget-friendly prices, others may prefer fillers for their longer-lasting effects and more immediate results. Some individuals may even opt for a combination of both procedures to achieve their desired look.

But no matter your personal goal, it’s crucial to understand the benefits and risks of any cosmetic procedure before undergoing it. Always take your time to research and find a qualified professional who can provide you with accurate information, guide you through the process, and ensure your safety and satisfaction.

Additionally, it is essential to have realistic expectations and understand that no cosmetic procedure can magically fix all your insecurities or change who you are. While these may have the power to enhance certain features, which many may perceive as the key to the door of confidence, true beauty and self-acceptance come from within. So, before making any decisions about cosmetic procedures, take a moment to reflect on your reasons and goals behind them. You never know – a few moments with your true self may be all you need to appreciate your features just the way they are.

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