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So you want a little plump, but you’re not sure where to go from there?
Quick answer: A lip flip uses Botox or Dysport to relax your upper lip muscle for a subtle, more defined pout. Lip filler uses a hyaluronic acid injected directly into the lips to add volume and fullness. Neither one is “better.” They just solve different problems. Below, we break down how each treatment works, what results to expect and how to decide which one (or both) is right for you.
A lip flip is a quick, in-clinic injectable treatment that creates the appearance of a slightly fuller, more defined lip without adding volume. Your provider injects a small amount of Botox or Dysport into your upper lip muscle to relax it, which everts the lip. The result is a sharpened cupid's bow and more of the top lip showing. It also prevents the upper lip from curling under when smiling, helping to maintain a fuller appearance.
Lip filler is an in-clinic injectable treatment that adds volume, hydration and smoothness to the lips using a hyaluronic acid gel, a substance your skin already makes on its own. It’s injected beneath the skin to plump the lips and soften fine lines.
The main difference comes down to what’s injected and where. A lip flip sharpens shape and definition, while lip filler adds fullness and volume.
| Differences | Lip Flip | Lip Filler |
|
What's injected |
Botox or Dysport | Hyaluronic acid filler |
| Where | Upper lip muscle (orbicularis oris) | Directly into the lips |
| Adds volume? | No, shape only | Yes |
| Procedure time | About 5 minutes | About 30 minutes |
| Results timeline | 10-14 days | Immediately, with final results at 4-6 weeks |
| How long results last | 2-3 months | 6-12 months |
If you want subtle definition and a sharper cupid’s bow, have a thin upper lip at baseline or lose your top lip when smiling, a lip flip is probably your best place to start. It can also drastically reduce the appearance of a “gummy” smile. It’s one of our most-requested treatments, and it’s easy to see why. Results are noticeable, downtime is minimal and nobody has to know you did anything unless you tell them. Our board-certified providers use precise, low doses of Botox or Dysport, so you get natural, never-overdone results.
If your goal is fuller, plumper lips, or your lips are thin or you’re looking for more structured shape and defined borders, lip filler is likely the better choice. Skin Pharm uses hyaluronic acid-based fillers to add volume and smooth fine lines around the mouth. Results look natural and last 6-12 months.
Yes. You can combine both treatments. A lip flip pairs well with lip filler if you want fuller lips with a more defined shape, and it can even soften the look of a gummy smile. Your provider can help you decide whether to do both in the same appointment or space them out, depending on what you’re going for.
What is a lip flip?
A lip flip is an injectable treatment that uses Botox or Dysport to relax the upper lip muscle, creating the appearance of a fuller upper lip without adding volume.
What is lip filler?
Lip filler is an injectable treatment that uses a hyaluronic acid gel to add volume, structure, fullness, definition and hydration directly to the lips.
How long does a lip flip last
Results typically last 2-3 months.
How long does lip filler last?
Results typically last 6-12 months.
Which treatment is right for me?
If you want more definition without added volume, a lip flip is a great fit. If you want plumper, fuller lips, lip filler is likely the better option. Booking a consult with one of our providers is the best way to find your match.
Can I get both at the same time
Yes. A lip flip and lip filler can be done together for more shape and more volume at once.
Our providers can help you decide between a lip flip, lip filler or both, based on what you actually want. Book a consult, and they’ll help you figure out what’s right for your lips.
Julia Franklyn, PA-C is a board-certified physician assistant and the Director of Clinical Training at Skin Pharm. Follow her on Instagram.
