From viral dance challenges to stunning glow-up transformations and even Emily Mariko’s famous salmon rice bowl recipe, TikTok’s influence on trends is undeniable. This extends to the world of cosmetic procedures, where the platform is spotlighting both established and emerging trends, fostering conversations among influencers, patients, and medical professionals about popular aesthetic treatments.
One of the latest buzzworthy topics gaining traction? The “lip flip.” This cosmetic procedure has captured attention for its seemingly effortless ability to create the appearance of fuller lips without actually adding volume. While TikTok may be fueling its current popularity, the lip flip itself is far from new.
Close-up of woman's face after lip flip procedure
“Lip flips using neurotoxin injections around the mouth have been a technique we’ve employed for many years,” explains Dr. Ashley Amalfi, a board-certified plastic surgeon based in New York and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). “It’s not a novel procedure, but its popularity has significantly increased recently.”
Decoding the Lip Flip Procedure
So, what exactly is a lip flip? In essence, a lip flip is a minimally invasive procedure that utilizes neuromodulators, most commonly Botox, to subtly enhance the upper lip. The treatment involves strategically injecting small amounts of Botox into the muscle just above the upper lip, known as the orbicularis oris muscle. By relaxing this muscle, the lip gently rolls or “flips” outwards, creating the illusion of increased volume and a more defined vermilion border (the edge of the lip).
It’s crucial to understand that a lip flip differs significantly from lip fillers. Lip fillers involve injecting substances like hyaluronic acid directly into the lips to physically add volume. In contrast, the lip flip works by manipulating the muscle surrounding the lip, resulting in a more natural-looking enhancement for many individuals. Patients often find that the lip flip offers a subtle yet noticeable improvement, enhancing their natural lip shape rather than dramatically altering it.
Dr. Smita Ramanadham, a board-certified plastic surgeon in New Jersey and also an ASPS member, notes the connection between lip flip patients and those seeking solutions for a “gummy smile.” A gummy smile occurs when the upper lip retracts excessively when smiling, revealing a significant amount of gum tissue.
“By carefully targeting and injecting specific muscles, we can achieve muscle relaxation, leading to a fuller and more balanced smile,” Dr. Ramanadham elaborates. The lip flip can effectively address the issue of the upper lip disappearing or curling inwards when smiling, creating a more aesthetically pleasing and confident smile.
Are You a Good Candidate for a Lip Flip?
While the lip flip is gaining popularity, it’s important to recognize that it’s not a universally suitable procedure. Even individuals who are good candidates for lip fillers may not be ideal candidates for a lip flip.
Dr. Amalfi clarifies the profile of an ideal lip flip candidate: “The best candidate is someone who has an overactive muscle around their mouth that causes their upper lip to roll inwards or disappear dramatically when they smile.” The lip flip leverages the muscle-relaxing properties of neurotoxins like Botox to weaken this hyperactive muscle. This relaxation allows more of the upper lip to be visible when smiling, resulting in a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
She further explains that some individuals naturally exhibit smiles that reveal a large portion of their teeth or even their gums. The lip flip aims to “relax that muscle slightly, so the upper lip line appears straighter when smiling, revealing just a hint of the teeth – often considered a more desirable smile aesthetic.” It’s about achieving a subtle refinement and enhancing the natural beauty of the smile.
Lip Flip Versus Lip Fillers: Understanding the Key Differences
Although the names sound similar, lip flips and lip fillers are distinctly different cosmetic procedures with unique mechanisms and outcomes. Lip flips utilize neuromodulators like Botox to relax muscles, while lip fillers involve injecting a volumizing substance directly into the lip tissue.
Dr. Amalfi explains the common material used in lip fillers: “Hyaluronic acid is the primary substance I use for lip fillers, and it comes in various consistencies.” These fillers range from thinner formulations for subtle enhancements to thicker options for more noticeable volume augmentation. The choice of filler depends on the patient’s desired outcome and natural lip anatomy.
The key differences can be summarized as:
| Feature | Lip Flip | Lip Fillers |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism | Muscle relaxation using neuromodulators | Direct volume addition with injectable substances |
| Substance Used | Botox (neuromodulators) | Hyaluronic acid fillers |
| Volume Addition | No direct volume increase | Adds volume to the lips |
| Result | Subtle lip eversion, natural fullness | Noticeable volume increase, shape alteration |
| Ideal for | Gummy smile, subtle upper lip enhancement | Adding significant volume, reshaping lips |
Potential Side Effects and Important Considerations
As with any cosmetic or medical procedure, lip flips carry potential side effects. Therefore, consulting with a qualified and board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial to determine if a lip flip is the right choice for you and to minimize potential risks.
Dr. Ramanadham cautions, “If the treatment is not precisely tailored to your individual anatomy and facial assessment, patients may experience changes in their smile shape or a sensation of heaviness in the upper lip.” Furthermore, administering an excessive dose of neurotoxin or improper injection technique can lead to undesirable side effects. These may include drooling or difficulty maintaining lip seal, impacting actions like drinking from a straw or puckering the lips.
While social media platforms like TikTok often showcase ideal outcomes, it’s essential to remember that not every individual is a suitable candidate for every procedure. Seeking guidance from a board-certified plastic surgeon who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons is paramount when considering any cosmetic procedure. These surgeons possess the expertise and experience to assess your individual needs, recommend the most appropriate treatment plan, and ensure your safety and satisfaction.
To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.
