Lip Flip

Get fuller lips without needles with this non-surgical lip flip procedure that plumps your pout for a natural, kissable look.

Years of Experience
1 +
Surgeries Per Year
1 +
Procedures Performed
1 +

Overview

Procedure Summary

The lip flip is a quick, non-surgical procedure that uses neuromodulators (Botox, Dysport, etc.) injections to subtly enhance the appearance of your lips.

Average Cost

$60 to $ 100 CAD

Time Duration

20 minutes

Alternate Names

Philtrum Botox, Botox Lip Flip

Lip Flip Before & After

Check out these before and after photos of past Lip Flip patients of our cosmetic nurse injectors. These photos can give a realistic idea of the amazing facial contour improvements you can achieve through this surgery.  

As we age, our lips can lose their fullness and definition, resulting in a thinner appearance and a less pronounced smile. Other reasons for a lip flip would be to treat a “gummy smile”. Traditional lip augmentation methods often rely on fillers, which can sometimes create an overly dramatic or artificial look.

At Kanata Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery, we offer the Lip Flip, a simple and quick treatment that uses small amounts of neuromodulators to give your lips a fuller and more youthful look. This innovative procedure enhances your natural lip shape, creating a soft, minimal discomfort and no downtime. attractive pout with

What is a Lip Flip Procedure?

This popular procedure uses botulinum toxin (most common brand being “Botox”) to create a subtle, natural-looking enhancement of the upper lip. 

A lip flip is a nonsurgical way to give your lips a fuller appearance. During the procedure, our cosmetic nurses expertly inject Botox around the upper lip, causing the muscles above the lip to relax. This relaxation results in the upper lip flipping slightly upward, giving the illusion of a larger lip without increasing its size.

This treatment can be especially beneficial for those who have a smile that shows a lot of their gums. After a lip flip, the upper lip doesn’t elevate as much when smiling, which means less gum is visible.

What Is the Difference Between a Lip Flip and a Lip Filler?

Lip flips are often confused with lip fillers. This table dives into the key differences between the two to help you pick the perfect solution for your lips.

 

Feature

Lip Flip

Lip Filler

Procedure Duration

Quick and easy, can be done during a lunch break

Takes longer, typically involves more preparation and recovery time

Cost

Relatively inexpensive (requires 4-6 units of Botox on average)

$11 per unit

Generally more expensive

$600 per syringe

Duration of Results

Temporary, lasts up to three months

More long-lasting results

Change Type

Subtle, enhances natural lip shape

Can provide a more dramatic transformation

Adjustment Period

May feel a bit stiff and unnatural initially

Possible swelling and bruising after treatment

Effect On Gums

Reduces gum visibility when smiling

Not specifically targeted at gum visibility

Initial Effect

Takes up to 14 days to take effect

Results are usually visible immediately after the swelling subsides

Suitability

Not suitable for very thin lips

Suitable for a wide range of lip types

What Are the Benefits of a Lip Flip?

Everyone’s lips are different, and what you want out of a lip flip might be different too. But here are some of the things a lip flip can do for many people:

  • Enhanced Lip Shape and Symmetry

One of the primary benefits of a lip flip is its ability to improve lip shape and symmetry. If you’ve ever felt like your lips are a little uneven, a lip flip can help correct these concerns. 

  • Natural and Subtle Results

When it comes to lip enhancements, many strive for natural-looking results. A lip flip offers precisely that. Unlike more dramatic treatments, a lip flip provides a subtle enhancement that doesn’t overpower your facial features and accentuates your lips’ natural shape and contour.

  • Minimal Downtime and Quick Treatment

The treatment can typically be completed quickly, often during a lunch break. You can return to most of your daily activities immediately after the treatment, with minimal to no disruption to your routine. You may need to avoid the gym or lying flat for a few hours after treatment. 

  • Customization and Personalization

No two smiles are alike, so customization and personalization are vital aspects of a lip flip. Our cosmetic nurses customize the lip flip to suit your unique preferences.

Who Is a Candidate for a Lip Flip?

This procedure is suitable for anyone who’s looking to add a bit more definition and fullness to their naturally thin lips. Here are some specific cases that make for ideal candidates:

  • You have naturally thin lips, in which case, a lip flip might be a great option for you. However, keep in mind that if your lips are extremely thin, a lip flip might not provide the dramatic results you’re looking for.
  • A lip flip can also help if you feel self-conscious about showing too much gum when you smile.
  • You have realistic expectations about what a lip flip can achieve. 
  • You’re seeking a gentle boost to your lip’s appearance without committing to a more invasive procedure.
  • You’re not pregnant or breastfeeding. Our cosmetic nurses will not treat anyone who is pregnant or breast feeding with any of our injectable products. 

What to Expect in the Lip Flip Procedure?

After your scheduled appointment with our cosmetic nurse to discuss your goals, medical history, and any questions you may have, preparing for a lip flip is straightforward, but a few steps can help ensure the best result:

  • Avoid Blood Thinners: A few days before your procedure, avoid taking blood thinners such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or certain supplements like fish oil, as they can increase the risk of bruising.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water leading up to your appointment. Staying hydrated can help your skin recover more quickly.
  • Avoid Alcohol: Refrain from consuming alcohol for at least 24 hours before the procedure, as it can also increase the risk of bruising.
  • Avoid dental work and vaccinations: Don’t have any dental work or vaccinations within 2 weeks of your appointment. Dental work can loosen up bacteria with increases your risk of infection. Vaccinations stimulate your immune system, which can increase the chance of a reaction to the product. 

Lip Flip Procedure

Lip flips are typically quick and easy, taking around 20 minutes, so you can easily fit them into your busy schedule. Many people even schedule them during their lunch break.

Here’s what you can expect during the appointment:

  1. Our cosmetic nurse will clean the area around your lips and might apply a numbing cream to keep you comfortable.
  2. Then, with a tiny needle, they will inject small amounts of Botox into specific areas of your upper lip. This targets specific muscles that, when relaxed, cause your lip to flip outward slightly for a fuller appearance.

Your full results typically develop over the next 7-14 days as the Botox takes effect.

How to Care for Your Lips After the Procedure?

After your lip flip, proper aftercare will help you achieve the best results and minimize any potential side effects:

  • Refrain from touching or massaging the treated area for at least 24 hours to prevent the Botox from spreading.
  • Try to remain upright for at least four hours after the procedure to allow the Botox to settle properly.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise for the first 24 hours, as increased blood flow can affect the Botox.
  • Steer clear of hot environments like saunas or hot tubs for the first 24 hours, as heat can increase the risk of bruising and swelling.
  • Avoid dental work and vaccinations for 2 weeks after your treatment to prevent an increased risk of infection and reaction.
  • Schedule a follow-up appointment with Dr. Lacey if you have any concerns or questions about your results.

What Are The Potential Risks of a Lip Flip?

Like any procedure, lip flips have a few things to keep in mind. While they’re generally safe with minimal discomfort, there can be some temporary side effects. These might include slight bruising, swelling around the injection site (usually gone within a few days), or a temporary stiffness in your upper lip that could affect speaking or whistling for a week or two. 

In rare cases, there could be some unevenness or a minor allergic reaction. Remember, any injection carries a slight infection risk, but our nurses’ expertise minimizes these risks to keep things smooth and worry-free.

How Much Does a Lip Flip Cost?

The cost of a lip flip can vary depending on the specific needs of the patient. At Kanata Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Clinic, lip flip charges are between $60-$150 CAD. This price includes the Botox injections and the expert service to ensure you achieve the best possible results. Additionally, you can visit our page for third-party financing services. For an accurate estimate and to discuss your specific needs, we recommend scheduling a consultation with Dr. Lacey or one of the cosmetic nurses.

Ottawa’s Private Surgical Facility

To schedule your consultation, simply call our Cosmetic
Patient Coordinators at 613-591-1099 or complete the
contact form below. We are here to support you through
your journey and look forward to assisting you!

 
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FAQs

You want to avoid touching or rubbing your lips and surrounding area so just keep this in mind when deciding what to eat. It’d be best to avoid anything messy that would require you to wipe your face. Also, avoid drinking from a straw for the first few days after treatment as the puckering motion can cause the botox to migrate.

 Unfortunately, botox does not last forever. Just like any other neuromodulator treatment, the effects only last about 3 months. If you want to keep up your new appearance, you’ll need to schedule an appointment every 3-3.5months. There’s no risk of waiting longer, it just means you’ll have some time without the lip flip effect. 

We have several neuromodulators available in clinic. “Botox” is often used as a blanket name for all neuromodulators, because it’s the most well-known brand. While we stock Botox, we also have Dysport, Xeomin, and Nuceiva. Our cosmetic nurse injectors use the product they think will work best for you. If you have a preference, let us know at the time of booking so we can make note of it for your injector.

Lip filler and lip flips give different end results. Lip filler adds volume to your lips, making them larger in size. A lip flip relaxes the muscle around your upper lip, “flipping” your upper lip upwards to appear bigger, without actually adding any volume. A lip flip also reduces how much your lip curls when you smile, lessening the appearance of a “gummy” smile.

We don’t combine these treatments as they have similar goals through different treatments. If you’re wondering which option would be best for you, we’d suggest booking a consultation with our cosmetic nurse injectors. You can discuss your goals with them and they ‘ll recommend the best treatment to get you there.

Book your lip flip consultation with our aestheticians at Kanata Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery Clinic today. Our team of nurses are dedicated to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals with personalized care and expertise. Contact us now to book your appointment.