Lip Flip in Seattle

Lips naturally change with expression, aging, and muscle activity, often appearing thinner when we smile or speak. For patients who want a subtle improvement without the commitment of fillers, the lip flip has become a popular choice. At Allure Esthetic, we use advanced techniques to create noticeable yet understated enhancement that fits effortlessly with your facial expression and anatomy.

A lip flip is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses small amounts of botulinum toxin, typically Botox or Dysport, to soften the muscle around the upper lip. Instead of adding product into the lips as fillers do, a lip flip allows the top lip to gently roll outward, displaying more surface area and improving shape. This creates the illusion of a fuller lip without additional volume.

For patients who feel their upper lip disappears when they smile, who want a more defined Cupid’s bow, or who are curious about lip enhancement but not ready for filler, a lip flip can be a good option. Because the result is subtle and customizable, patients often use a lip flip as an introduction into aesthetic treatments or as a complement to lip fillers for more comprehensive lip definition.

At the center of lip movement is a circular muscle called the orbicularis oris. When this muscle contracts, it pulls the lips inward and downward, making the upper lip appear thinner, especially when smiling.

A lip flip works by injecting a small dose of Botox or Dysport (usually less than 10 units) into the upper portion of this muscle. Once relaxed, the upper lip loses some of its inward pull and instead rests slightly outward. This outward rotation is what creates the noticeable improvement in shape.

Every lip flip at Allure Esthetic is customized to the patient’s lip structure, smile dynamics, and facial aesthetics. Here’s what to expect during your visit:

Consultation

The appointment begins with a detailed evaluation by our provider. We assess:

• Lip proportions
• Symmetry
• Smile line
• Tooth show
• Muscle strength
• Your overall treatment goals

This allows us to design a plan that compliments your natural features.

Preparation

Patients often find the treatment very tolerable because the injections are quick and placed superficially. Numbing can be provided upon request.

Injection Technique

Small amounts of neurotoxin are injected using a micro-needle at specific points around the upper lip:

• The center (Cupid’s bow area)
• Just beneath the nose
• Outer corners of the upper lip

The entire treatment often takes less than 10 minutes.

Post-Treatment

You can leave the office immediately and resume most activities. Temporary changes in lip function, like mild difficulty pursing the lips or using a straw, can happen but usually resolve as the treatment settles.

If you have any questions or experience unusual symptoms, our team is available to support you throughout the healing process.

Patients choose lip flips for a variety of aesthetic and functional improvements. Common benefits include:

• A more visible upper lip without added filler volume
• Better defined Cupid’s bow
• A softer, more relaxed smile line
• Reduced lip thinning when smiling
• Decrease in “gummy smile” appearance
• Improvement in vertical lip lines
• Low-discomfort treatment with instant return to routine
• Temporary results that allow flexibility
• A natural look that fits the aesthetic preferences of many Seattle patients

A lip flip offers subtlety. Rather than dramatically changing the lips, it refines them.

While a lip flip works beautifully for many people, it’s important to determine whether the treatment fits your goals and anatomy.

You may be a good candidate if:

• Your upper lip disappears when smiling
• You have a naturally thin upper lip
• You want a more visible lip shape without added volume
• You experience a gummy smile
• You are new to injectable treatments
• You want a low-commitment enhancement
• You have mild upper-lip asymmetry
• You want a more defined Cupid’s bow
• You prefer a natural, understated improvement

You may not be a candidate if:

• You want significant volume (filler is more suitable)
• You rely heavily on lip strength for professional reasons (musicians, performers)
• You have active cold sores or lip infections
• You have a neuromuscular condition
• You have extremely asymmetrical lips that need volume correction
• You have a known allergy to botulinum toxin

During your consultation, we will help determine the most suitable approach for your needs, whether that is a lip flip alone, filler alone, or a thoughtful combination of both.

These two treatments are often confused, but they serve different purposes:

Lip Flip

• Uses Botox/Dysport
• No added volume
• Creates outward lip roll
• Best for shape enhancement
• Subtle, refined results
• May last 2–4 months

Lip Filler

• Uses hyaluronic acid
• Adds structure and volume
• Can reshape the entire lip contour
• Provides more dramatic change
• May last 6–12 months or more

Combining Both Treatments

Seattle patients often combine both because:

• Filler provides fullness
• Lip flip enhances the shape and smile
• Combined results may look more balanced and natural

This combination can work well for patients with volume loss and a strong perioral muscle.

Patients may notice subtle lifting and shape improvements starting around 3-5 days after treatment. Full results may appear by 10-14 days.

What You May Experience

• Mild redness
• Slight swelling
• Tiny injection-site dots
• Temporary changes in lip movement
• Rare, minimal bruising

Patients often return to all normal activities immediately.

Results may last 2-4 months, depending on muscle strength, metabolism, and lifestyle.
Because the upper lip muscles are active during speaking, eating, and smiling, they metabolize neurotoxin faster than other facial muscles. Some patients return for maintenance treatments to keep their results consistent.

To help your lip flip settle properly:

• Avoid touching or rubbing the treated area for 24 hours
• Skip strenuous exercise for one day
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before and after treatment
• Do not apply pressure or massage
• Avoid high-heat environments like saunas and hot yoga
• Try not to drink through a straw immediately after treatment
• Stay hydrated and follow our provider’s personalized instructions

Proper aftercare ensures the most natural and balanced result.

What does a lip flip do?

A lip flip relaxes the muscle around the upper lip so the lip gently rolls outward, making more of the pink lip visible. This creates a subtly fuller appearance without adding actual volume.

How much does a lip flip cost?

Pricing varies depending on the number of units needed and your overall aesthetic goals. At Allure Esthetic, a single unit of Botox/Dysport costs $14.

Does a lip flip hurt?

Most patients report little to no discomfort. The injections are superficial and take only a few seconds.

Can I get a lip flip if I already have filler?

Yes. Many patients combine the two to create enhanced shape, definition, and volume.

How soon should I get a lip flip before an important event?

Allow 2–3 weeks before major events so the results can fully settle.

Is a lip flip safer than filler?

Both treatments are considered safe when performed by an experienced provider, but a lip flip is less invasive since it uses only small amounts of neurotoxin rather than adding product.

Does a lip flip give duck lips?

No, a lip flip cannot create duck lips because it does not add any volume to the lip. Instead, it softens muscle tension to enhance the natural lip shape.

Who is a good candidate for a lip flip?

Good candidates are people with a thin upper lip, a lip that disappears when smiling, or those who want subtle enhancement without added volume.

Who is not a candidate for a lip flip?

People who need significant lip volume, have active cold sores or lip infections, or rely heavily on lip strength for professional reasons may not be candidates. Those with certain neuromuscular conditions or allergies to botulinum toxin should also avoid the treatment.

Does a lip flip affect your smile?

A lip flip can make the upper lip more visible when smiling by reducing upward pull, which many patients find enhances their smile. Normal smile function is preserved when the treatment is properly dosed.