Botox Lip Flip vs. Filler: Here’s What You Need To Know

Are you debating between a Botox Lip Flip vs. Filler but don’t know where to start? 

So many options can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to lip enhancement for thin lips. 

Two popular options are the Botox lip lip and lip fillers, each with pros and cons.

Let’s dive into Botox lip flips and fillers’ key differences and pros and cons to help you choose the best treatment. 

I’ve tried both and will share my experience as well.

What is a Botox Lip Flip?

The Botox lip flip procedure uses a neuromodulator like botulinum toxin (Botox) to create a fuller appearance of the upper lip without adding volume. 

Unlike traditional lip fillers that inject a hyaluronic acid-based filler to plump the lip directly, a Botox lip flip targets the muscles around the mouth.

By carefully placing a small amount of Botox into the orbicularis oris muscle – the muscle that controls the movement of the mouth and lips – the Botox relaxes the muscle fibers just above the top lip. 

As a result, the upper lip is subtly rolled outward, giving the illusion of a fuller lip contour. It’s that lip eversion that gives us that sexy, pouty look. 

A botox lip flip is also a great aesthetic treatment for those who show a lot of gums when they smile (aka “gummy smile”). Botox helps relax the top lip, which covers the upper teeth more.

The treatment takes just a few minutes and only 4-8 units, making this affordable compared to filler. 

The Botox lip flip procedure is also an option if you’re apprehensive about dermal fillers or want a quick aesthetic boost without the Kylie Jenner lips.

Related: 12 Surprising Benefits of Botox Treatment Injections

Botox Lip Flip Pros and Cons 

Pros:

• Subtle Enhancement: Lip flips subtly enhance the natural shape of the lips for a less dramatic, more natural look
• Less Expensive: Generally more affordable than filler treatments.  Depending on your provider, 6-8 units of Botox = about $100 or so. 
• Quick Procedure: The lip flip is non-invasive and takes as little as 5-10 minutes.
• Minimal Downtime: There’s typically no recovery period required, unlike fillers that may bruise and swell.
• Temporary Results: Sometimes you just want to test and see! Because we use our lips and mouth so frequently, lip flips only last about 8 – 10 weeks (less than normal Botox in the face).

Cons:

• Temporary: Since the lip lift is short-lived, you may need to return sooner for a touch-up.
• Delayed Results: Optimal results from a lip flip may take a week or so to appear as the effects of Botox gradually set in.
• Limited Enhancement: Lip lifts won’t give you a significant increase in lip volume or dramatic reshaping
• It feels weird! Why doesn’t anyone talk about this?! Botox around the mouth feels funny until you get used to it. Also, good luck using a straw appropriately! 
• You can’t reverse treatment – you have to wait it out:  If, for whatever reason, the Botox lip flip isn’t for you, you have to be patient until the Botox wears off.

I tried the lip flip before my surgical lip lift to see if I could try that instead of going under the knife. It was subtle and nice, but I didn’t love being unable to use a straw or move my mouth as easily. It felt strange!

I also went very conservative with four units. I recommend going conservative first because you want to relax the muscle, not paralyze it.

What Are Lip Fillers?

Lip fillers, commonly called lip augmentation or lip injections, use hyaluronic-based fillers to enhance lip shape, volume, and symmetry. 

Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in our body. It is a relatively safe and temporary method for getting fuller lips, and you can reverse the results.

If you want additional volume, lip fillers are what you’re looking for. 

Fillers can also accentuate the cupid’s bow, even out asymmetrical lips, shape the lip for a more defined look, and smooth out lip lines and wrinkles.

Unlike the lip flip, which typically focuses on the upper lip, you can add fillers to the lower lip for fullness. 

The best part is that you see the results instantly (no waiting), and your treatment can be customized based on your lip anatomy and goals.

There are tons of lip fillers on the market. I’ve used both Juvaderm and Restylane Kysse; I don’t recommend Juvaderm personally – they call it “move-a-derm” for a reason. I ended up getting pretty bad filler migration after 2-3 treatments.

I LOVE Restylane Kysse, and I highly recommend this one. It’s natural looking, hasn’t migrated, and I’ve had mine for 13 months without any touch-ups. 

Lip filler treatment typically lasts between 6 to 12 months, depending on the type of filler used and how your body metabolizes it. 

Lip Fillers Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Immediate Results: Lip fillers give you immediate volume that settles in its natural shape after the swelling subsides.
• Customizable: Lip filler techniques and products can be customized to your goals.
• Natural Appearance: YES, filler can look natural. The key is finding an experienced practitioner, going slow, and choosing the right product for you.
• Long-Lasting: Fillers can typically last up to 12 months.
• Can be reversed: You can reverse HA fillers with hyaluronidase, unlike the Botox lip flip.

Cons:

• Cost: Lip filler is more expensive than other treatments like the lip flip (expect $700-$1200
• Potential Risks: Though usually temporary, risks can include bruising, tenderness, and swelling
• Maintenance Required: To maintain the filler, you must continue maintaining it. This can become a slippery slope if you inject too much overtime (see migration below).
• Filler migration: Unlike the lip flip, fillers can migrate over time, which requires them to be dissolved and redone.

Botox Lip Flip Vs. Filler: Choosing the Right Treatment for YOU

The choice between fillers and treatments like the Botox lip flip depends on your aesthetic goals, budget considerations, and desired change. 

Consider what you want when deciding between a Botox lip flip and fillers.

 A lip flip might be your best bet if you want a subtle changes that enhances your natural shape for a more understated refinement. 

A lip lift is also a good choice if your lip tends to curl under when you smile.

It’s less about adding volume and more about a slight upward curl of your lip’s edge, creating an illusion of fullness.

On the other hand, lip fillers can dramatically increase your lips’ size and give you that sought-after plumpness and fuller-looking lips overall. 

Restylane Kysse, for example, promises longer-lasting results, extending up to one year of enhanced volume. 

If you’re looking for volume, I wouldn’t waste time with a lip flip. You likely won’t get the results you’re looking for.

As always, find a qualified professional to weigh the benefits against possible side effects to determine the best cosmetic treatment for your needs.

How to Combine a Lip Flip with Lip Filler

The lip lift is often viewed as just an alternative to lip fillers, but did you know you can combine the lip flip with the lip filler?  

Combining both is a great option for a power-duo approach to lip enhancement for a fuller look. 

By marrying the subtle upturn of a lip flip with the volumizing power of traditional lip fillers, you can get a treatment that accentuates both the shape and fullness of the lips.

Tip: you can also add small amounts of Botox into the DAO muscles to raise the corners of your mouth slightly, giving a youthful look. 

If you are new to either procedure, consider doing one treatment at a time. After one treatment, you may not feel the need for the other. 

As with any cosmetic procedure, there are potential side effects. Discuss your expectations and potential outcomes with a medical professional or plastic surgeon before proceeding with any lip enhancement procedure. 

Best of luck in your lip enhancement journey!